3 Major Airports in Qatar for International Tourists

Qatar’s strategic location makes air travel the primary link to the outside world, with Hamad International Airport leading as one of the busiest transit hubs in the Middle East. While Doha’s main airport handles the bulk of traffic, other airports in Qatar support military operations, cargo services, and private aviation.

In this guide, we have covered the top airports in Qatar, their facilities, transportation options, and everything you need to know for a smooth travel experience.

Airport Name	Type	Airport Code
Hamad International Airport	International	DOH
Doha International Airport	General Aviation	DIA
Al Khor Airport	Public/Private	–

1. Hamad International Airport 

Hamad International Airport is Qatar’s main international gateway, handling millions of passengers annually. As one of the top airports in Qatar, it is consistently ranked among the world’s best airports and serves as the central hub for Qatar Airways.

Address: Doha, Qatar 

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/zjnejM8hjyzwekjr6

Airport Code: DOH 

Category: International 

Phone: +97440106666

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 15 km from Doha City Center

Operating Airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air France, and many other international carriers operate from Hamad International Airport, making it one of the best airports in Qatar for global connectivity.

Terminals: One main terminal with multiple concourses.

Services & Amenities:

• Extensive duty-free shopping, international cuisine, and luxury boutiques
• Multiple lounges, including Oryx Airport Hotel, Al Maha Services Lounges, and Oryx Lounge
• Vitality Wellbeing & Fitness Centre with gym, 25m pool, squash courts, and spa
• Free Wi-Fi, internet kiosks, telephone booths, and SIM card sales
• Activity nodes for children, parents’ rooms, and family rooms in lounges
• 24/7 medical centers in arrivals and departures
• Meet & Greet services for expedited immigration, baggage, and lounge access
• Multiple prayer rooms with ablution facilities
• Accessibility features for passengers with reduced mobility
• Taxis, buses, car rentals, and Doha Metro access
• Large art installations and a tropical garden throughout the terminal

Nearby Attractions:

• Doha Corniche: A stunning 7 km waterfront promenade located 15 km from the airport, offering breathtaking views of the Doha skyline, walking paths, and numerous cafés along the Arabian Gulf.
• Souq Waqif: An authentic traditional market just 16 km from the terminal, featuring narrow lanes filled with spices, handicrafts, textiles, and traditional restaurants dating back a century.
• National Museum of Qatar: Located 17 km away, this architectural marvel shaped like a desert rose houses interactive exhibits on Qatar’s history from prehistoric times to the present day.
• Museum of Islamic Art: Situated 18 km from the airport on its own artificial peninsula, this I.M. Pei-designed masterpiece displays 1,400 years of Islamic art from three continents.
• Katara Cultural Village: A comprehensive arts and culture complex 22 km from the airport, featuring theaters, galleries, concert halls, and restaurants in a setting inspired by traditional Qatari architecture.

Suggested Read: Qatar Visa Rejection For Indians

2. Doha International Airport

Doha International Airport is the former main airport of Qatar, now used for VIP, state, charter, and some commercial flights during special events. This secondary airport facility in Qatar provides critical supplementary services to Hamad International Airport.

Address: Bandara Internasional Hamad, Qatar Air Traffic Control, MB l.p, Doha, Qatar

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/FF8fozE4YrwoZUJK6

Airport Code: DIA (OTBD) 

Category: International

Phone: NA

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 7 km from Doha City

Operating Airlines: VIP charters, private jets, and special commercial flights during major events

Terminals: One terminal for VIP and private aviation.

Services & Amenities:

• Lounges: Oryx Lounge, Qatar Airways Gold and Silver Lounges
• Wellbeing facilities with spa and fitness options
• Prayer rooms and a mosque
• Medical services with 24/7 centers
• Free Wi-Fi, internet kiosks, SIM card sales, phone booths
• Family facilities with activity areas for children
• Lost & Found service for terminal and airline items
• Taxi services, car rentals, and parking facilities
• Concierge desks, hotel transfer, and business services

Nearby Attractions:

• Same as Hamad International Airport, as both airports are located near Doha city center

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3. Al Khor Airport 

Credit: Wikipedia

Al Khor Airport serves the northern region of Qatar. It is one of the essential airports in Qatar used for general aviation, private flights, and annual aviation events rather than scheduled commercial services.

Address: Al Khor, Qatar

Location: https://maps.app.goo.gl/dYKLamRk61EL8CMv8

Airport Code: No IATA code (ICAO: OTBK) 

Category: Primarily domestic airport

Phone: NA

Distance from City Center/ Prime Location: 8 km away from Al Khor City

Operating Airlines: No scheduled commercial airlines. Used for private aviation and events.

Terminals: Basic facilities for general aviation.

Services & Amenities:

• General aviation services with apron parking for small aircraft
• Basic ground handling
• Venue facilities for aviation events and fly-ins
• Limited passenger amenities, as this is not a commercial passenger airport

Nearby Attractions:

• Al Khor Corniche: Just 5 km from the airport, this beautiful waterfront park offers walking paths, children’s play areas, and scenic views of the harbor and traditional dhow boats.
• Al Khor Museum: Located 6 km away in a traditional building, this museum displays artifacts from the region’s pearl diving history, fishing traditions, and archaeological findings.
• Al Khor Towers: Historic watchtowers situated 7 km from the airport, built between the late 19th and early 20th centuries as defensive structures against potential invaders.
• Purple Island (Al Khor Island): A natural attraction 9 km away, featuring mangrove forests, archaeological sites, diverse birdlife, and opportunities for kayaking and nature walks.
• Al Khor Family Park & Zoo: Located just 8 km from the airport, this expansive recreational area houses a variety of animals, lush gardens, play areas, and family picnic spots.

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Top 5 Places You Must Visit in Qatar

Qatar offers modern architecture alongside a rich cultural heritage. When planning your trip to airports in Qatar, make sure to include these must-visit destinations in your itinerary.

Place	Location	Highlights
Museum of Islamic Art	Doha	Architectural masterpiece, Islamic art collection, waterfront views
Al Zubarah Fort	Al Shamal/Northwest Qatar	UNESCO site, restored fort, archaeological ruins
Katara Cultural Village	Doha/West Bay	Arts hub, theaters, beach, architecture
Barzan Towers	Umm Salal Mohammed	Historic watchtowers, panoramic views, and cultural significance
Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea)	South Qatar	Desert meets sea landscape, dune bashing, UNESCO reserve

Museum of Islamic Art (Doha)

Located on an artificial island off the Doha Corniche, the Museum of Islamic Art is an architectural masterpiece designed by I.M. Pei. The museum houses one of the world’s most comprehensive collections of Islamic art, spanning 1,400 years and three continents.

Its galleries feature ceramics, textiles, metalwork, manuscripts, and glasswork from the Middle East, North Africa, Europe, and Asia. The museum’s striking geometric design and waterfront park make it a must-visit for art and culture lovers arriving via airports in Qatar.

Best For: Art enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and culture seekers.

Al Zubarah Fort & Archaeological Site (Al Shamal/Northwest Qatar)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Al Zubarah Fort is a restored 20th-century fort located near the ruins of the ancient town of Al Zubarah. The archaeological site preserves the remains of a once-thriving pearl fishing and trading port from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The fort itself, built in 1938, now serves as a museum displaying artifacts and information about Qatar’s history and heritage. Visitors can explore the fort’s towers, walls, and museum exhibits, as well as walk among the ruins of the old town.

Best For: History buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and photographers.

Katara Cultural Village (Doha/West Bay)

Katara Cultural Village is a sprawling complex dedicated to arts, culture, and heritage. Inspired by traditional Qatari architecture, it features art galleries, theaters, concert halls, mosques, and a beach.

The village regularly hosts festivals, performances, and exhibitions, making it a vibrant hub for creativity and multicultural exchange. With restaurants and cafes offering global cuisines and regular cultural events and festivals, it’s a must-visit after landing at the best airports in Qatar.

Best For: Culture lovers, art enthusiasts, and foodies.

Barzan Towers (Umm Salal Mohammed/North of Doha)

The Barzan Towers, also known as Umm Salal Mohammed Fort Towers, were built in the early 20th century as watchtowers to protect local water sources and monitor the surrounding area. The towers also served as a place for astronomical observations, especially for determining the start of Ramadan.

Visitors can climb the towers for panoramic views and explore the small mosque and reception room nearby. The historical significance as defensive and astronomical structures makes them a fascinating attraction located not far from the top airports in Qatar.

Best For: History enthusiasts, photographers, and those interested in traditional architecture.

Khor Al Adaid (Inland Sea/South Qatar)

Khor Al Adaid, also known as the Inland Sea, is a unique natural wonder where the sea encroaches deep into the desert, forming a vast tidal embayment surrounded by sand dunes. Recognized as a UNESCO natural reserve, it is accessible only by 4×4 vehicles and is a favorite destination for desert safaris.

The area is rich in wildlife and offers stunning views of the sand-sea landscape. Popular for off-road adventures, wildlife watching, and overnight camping, this UNESCO-recognized natural reserve is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts traveling through airports in Qatar.

Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and photographers.

FAQs

What are the accommodation options near major airports in Qatar?

Hamad International Airport, the best airport in Qatar, offers the Oryx Airport Hotel inside the terminal. Numerous luxury and mid-range hotels are available within 15-20 minutes of the airport in Doha. Accommodations are limited at other airports in Qatar, as most are military or specialized facilities.

What are the facilities at Qatar airports?

Qatar airport facilities at Hamad International include luxury shopping, dining options, lounges, a fitness center with a swimming pool, art displays, children’s play areas, prayer rooms, and business centers. Doha International offers VIP lounges and basic amenities, while other airports in Qatar have limited or specialized facilities.

How does the e-Gate system work at Qatar airports?

The e-Gate system at Qatari airports allows registered residents and eligible visitors to pass through immigration using automated gates with biometric scanning. At Hamad International Airport, Qatar residents can register for e-Gate at the immigration office.

What are the transportation options available from airports in Qatar?

Airport transportation in Qatar includes taxis, limousines, car rentals, and the Doha Metro from Hamad International Airport. The metro connects the airport to key locations in Doha, while Karwa taxis offer fixed rates to various destinations. Ride-hailing apps and hotel shuttle services are also available at the main airport.

How long does a Qatar tourist visa last?

Tourist visas for visitors arriving at airports in Qatar typically last 30 days and can be extended for an additional 30 days. Nationals from over 95 countries can receive visa waivers allowing stays between 30 and 90 days, depending on nationality. 

What items cannot be brought into Qatar?

Qatar enforces strict import regulations at all airports. Prohibited items include pork products, religious materials offensive to Islam, drugs, weapons, and alcoholic beverages. There are also restrictions on medication imports, and travelers should carry prescriptions for any required medications.

Which is the best airport to fly into in Qatar?

Hamad International Airport (DOH) is Qatar’s primary and best airport for commercial passengers. As Qatar’s main international gateway, it offers extensive facilities, connections to global destinations, and convenient access to Doha. 

What procedures should be followed if belongings get lost inside a Qatar airport?

For lost items at airports in Qatar, contact the airport’s lost property office immediately. At Hamad International Airport, the lost and found service is located on the ground floor of the terminal. Items lost on aircraft require contacting the airline directly.