Doha, May 28 (QNA) - Hamad International Airport (DOH) is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, marking a decade of delivering exceptional travel experiences to global destinations through Doha. Over its first ten years, the airport has garnered prestigious awards and accolades, including topping the list of the world's best airports three times in the Skytrax World Airport Awards. Additionally, it ranked second in the Middle East connectivity index according to the Airports Council International for Asia-Pacific and the Middle East 2023. This underscores the airports commitment to enhancing its innovation record, improving operational efficiency, placing customers at the heart of its strategy, and achieving the highest standards of operational efficiency, ensuring a seamless and reliable travel experience for its passengers.

From May 2014 to May 2024, Hamad International Airport welcomed 325.1 million passengers through its expanding facilities and advanced infrastructure. During this period, the airport recorded 2.1 million aircraft movements, handled 20.5 million tons of cargo, and processed over 258 million bags over ten years.

The airport, which serves as the hub for the national carrier Qatar Airways, currently provides services to more than 45 airline partners, including 14 of the world's leading airlines. Following the completion of phase (A) of the expansion project in 2022, its annual capacity has increased to 58 million passengers. The airport now serves over 200 global destinations, including passenger, cargo, and charter flights.

In its steadfast commitment to offering a unique travel experience, Hamad International Airport showcases more than 40 artworks that collectively form a distinguished permanent collection of paintings and sculptures by renowned artists from Qatar, the region, and the world. Additionally, the airport boasts over 200 shopping and hospitality outlets, featuring many exclusive and first-of-their-kind venues in Qatar and globally.

On this occasion, Group Chief Executive of Qatar Airways Eng. Badr Mohammed Al Meer who played a pivotal role in the airports development since its opening in 2014, said: "The global leading status and growth journey of Hamad International Airport, which began ten years ago, is compelling evidence that investing in our employees, facilities, adopting innovative solutions, and fostering collaboration with partners in the aviation sector are the best ways to achieve the highest levels of excellence. We have overcome numerous challenges and set new standards in the global aviation industry, contributing to our recognition as the world's best airport. Amid the evolving aviation sector, we continuously strive to enhance our operations and offer the best experiences in shopping and hospitality. We will continue our efforts to empower our employees and strengthen our relationships with our partners over the next ten years and beyond." As part of the 10th anniversary celebrations of Hamad International Airports operations, the airport is offering a variety of events, including entertainment shows and live musical performances. (QNA)