Enhanced Travel Experience at Hamad International Airport: A Guide to Seamless Check-in

Hamad International Airport in Doha is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and efficient services, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. Here's a comprehensive overview of the check-in process and the features that make it stand out:

Check-in Process

• Timing: Check-in typically opens three hours before your flight's departure time and closes 60 minutes before takeoff. You must arrive well-prepared with all necessary documents, including your ticket, passport, exit permit, and destination visas.
• Entry Points: Depending on your airline and class of travel, you can enter the Departure hall through designated gates:
• Qatar Airways First and Business Class: Entry Gate 1, with convenient access to the East short-term car park.
• Qatar Airways Economy Class: Entry Gates 2 and 3, with access to the West short-term car park.
• Other Airlines: Entry Gate 4, with access to the West short-term car park.

Facilities and Services

• Baggage Assistance: Free baggage trolleys are available, and porters can assist with luggage for a fixed fee.
• Check-in Rows:
• Qatar Airways First Class: Al Safwa First in row 1 offers private check-in desks and exclusive services.
• Qatar Airways Business Class: Al Mourjan Business in row 2.
• Qatar Airways Privilege Club and One World customers: Row 3.
• Qatar Airways Economy Class: Rows 4 to 6.
• Other Airlines Economy Class: Rows 7 to 10.
• Self-Check-in: Self-service kiosks are available throughout the check-in area for airlines offering this option. After self-check-in, proceed to the designated baggage drop-off counter1.

Special Services

• Priority Processing: Al Maha customers, special assistance travelers, and unaccompanied minors receive priority check-in services.
• Oversized Baggage: Special counters at the end of rows 3 and 8 handle oversized baggage.
• Traveling with Animals: Ensure all necessary documentation is ready and arranged with your airline in advance.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

• Expectant Mothers: Those over 28 weeks pregnant should carry a medical certificate confirming fitness for air travel.
• Special Assistance: Provide advance notice to your airline for specific needs.
• Unaccompanied Minors: Ensure all required documentation is available and notify the airline beforehand.

Following these guidelines and utilizing the airport's advanced facilities, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free check-in experience at Hamad International Airport.

Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar, is renowned for its efficiency and luxury. Whether you have a quick layover or hours to spare, HIA offers a seamless transfer experience with its integrated facilities and rich amenities. Here’s how to make the most of your time at this world-class hub.

Navigating the Airport

• Transfer Halls: Upon exiting your aircraft, head directly to the Transfer Halls located at concourses A, B, C, and D. These areas are well-signposted, but if you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask at an information desk or use the airport map available on digital screens or printed copies.

• Integrated Facility: HIA operates as a single integrated facility, allowing you to arrive, transfer, and depart from the same terminal building. This eliminates the need to change terminals, making your transit process much simpler.

Assistance and Services

• Transfer Desks: If you need help with boarding passes, re-scheduling flights, or have general queries, visit one of the transfer desks. These desks are equipped to assist with re-booking missed connections, upgrading travel classes, and more. They can also provide information on visa requirements if you plan to exit the airport.

• Special Assistance: Special assistance travelers, Al Maha customers, and unaccompanied minors receive priority processing and are met at the aircraft or aerobridge upon arrival. This ensures that they receive the support they need throughout their journey.

Exiting the Airport

• Exploring Qatar: If you have an extended stopover and wish to explore Qatar, the transfer desks can assist with exit procedures. Ensure you confirm visa and immigration requirements beforehand. Note that a transit visa is not required if you stay within the airport. However, if you plan to leave the airport, check if you need a visa based on your nationality.

• Transit Tours: Discover Qatar offers exclusive transit tours for those with six hours or more of transit time. These tours allow you to explore Doha’s iconic sites like the Corniche, Museum of Islamic Art, and Souq Waqif, or experience unique desert tours where the Arabian desert meets the sea.

Security Check

• Baggage Screening: Your hand baggage will undergo security screening for prohibited items. Dedicated security lanes are available for First Class and Business Class passengers, ensuring a quicker and more convenient process.

• Prohibited Items: Ensure your baggage does not contain prohibited items, as these will be confiscated. Check the airport’s Security & Customs page for more information on what items are allowed and what are not.

Things to Avoid

• Avoiding Delays: Do not follow the signs to ‘Arrivals’ unless you intend to exit the airport. Approach the transfer desks for assistance instead, as they can guide you through the correct procedures.

• Punctuality: Be punctual for your onward flight, as boarding gates close 20 minutes before departure. Plan your time wisely to avoid missing your connection.

Relaxation and Activities

• Airport Hotel: The Airport Hotel offers four-star hospitality for short stays, including massages, swimming, and gym facilities. This is ideal for those who want to relax and rejuvenate during their transit.

• Transit Tours: As mentioned, Discover Qatar offers a range of transit tours:

  • Discover Doha: A three-hour coach city tour that takes you around Doha’s key attractions.

  • Discover the Desert and Inland Sea: A four-hour private tour to Khor al Adaid.

  • Shuttle Bus Service: Visit the Qatar National Museum, Museum of Islamic Art, or Doha Beach Club with a hassle-free shuttle service.

  • Discover Doha by Air: A 45-minute flight over Doha’s iconic sites.

  • Discover Doha Your Way: Explore Doha with a private vehicle and chauffeur.

• Airport Facilities: Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, and access internet kiosks and Mac computers for browsing.

• Dining Options: Choose from more than 30 restaurants and cafes offering a wide variety of global cuisine.

• Lounge Access: You may be entitled to complimentary lounge access depending on your ticket or privilege club membership, or you can pay for lounge access. Relax in one of the quiet rooms that offer recliners and soft lighting.

• Cultural Experiences: HIA is renowned for its art installations. Experience an innovative and immersive visual experience by exploring the airport’s permanent and temporary exhibitions.

• Family-Friendly: There are five activity nodes designed for children of all ages, offering play areas, televisions, internet points, retail stores, and food and beverage options. Parents’ rooms and family toilets are also available for added convenience.

• Duty-Free Shopping: Qatar Duty-Free offers an extensive selection of designer labels, electronics, gourmet foods, and more across 70 retail outlets. Express stores are available if you are in a hurry.

Overall, Hamad International Airport provides a comprehensive and enjoyable transit experience, ensuring that your journey is both efficient and memorable.

As Eid al-Fitr approaches, travelers are gearing up for their holidays, and Hamad International Airport (HIA) is fully prepared to ensure a seamless travel experience for all passengers. With an expected increase in travel traffic during this period, HIA has released a set of valuable tips to help travelers navigate the airport efficiently.

Whether you're departing or arriving, these tips will guide you through every step of your journey, from check-in to boarding, and beyond.

Early Check-In and Arrival

Online Check-In: Save time by checking in online and arriving at the airport at least three hours before your flight. Check with your airline for online check-in options to streamline your journey. This not only reduces waiting times but also allows you to select your preferred seat and print or download your boarding pass.

• Qatar Airways Early Check-In: Economy passengers can check in from 12 to four hours before departure until April 5, excluding US and Canada flights. Using this service earns a 10% discount at Qatar Duty Free stores, making it a great way to start your shopping spree early.

Self-Service Facilities

• Self-Check-In & Bag-Drop: Utilize self-service kiosks to check in, print boarding passes, and tag your bags. Drop them off at the bag-drop counters before proceeding to border control. These kiosks are designed to be user-friendly and can significantly reduce your check-in time.

• E-Gates: Citizens and residents above 18 years old and taller than 130cm can expedite the immigration process using e-gates (restrictions apply). This service is quick and efficient, allowing you to breeze through immigration and head straight to your gate or explore the airport's amenities.

Baggage Guidelines

• Airlines' Baggage Policies: Check with your airline for specific baggage allowances and weight restrictions. Non-standard or oversized luggage is discouraged, as it may incur additional fees or be subject to special handling procedures.

• Baggage Repack Area: A baggage repack area with luggage weighing machines is available in the departure hall to assist passengers. This is particularly useful if you need to redistribute items to meet weight limits or if you have items that require special packaging.

Parking and Transportation

• Dedicated Parking: Use the dedicated parking facilities for quick drop-offs, pick-ups, and short stays. Avoid leaving vehicles unattended at the curbside, as this can lead to fines or towing. The parking facilities are designed for convenience and offer easy access to the terminal.

• Valet Parking: Available at Departures for ultimate convenience. This service allows you to drop off your vehicle with the valet team, saving you time and hassle.

• Car Rental and Limousine Services: Located close to the arrival hall, these services provide a seamless transition from the airport to your destination. Whether you prefer the independence of driving yourself or the luxury of a chauffeur-driven ride, there are options available to suit your needs.

Security and Prohibited Items

• Prohibited Items: Ensure no prohibited items like liquids, aerosols, and gels are in your carry-on. Pack liquids in 100ml containers within a clear, resealable bag. This is a standard security requirement to ensure safety on flights.

• Electronic Devices: Remove electronic devices larger than a mobile phone for X-ray screening. This includes laptops, tablets, and any other devices that need to be screened separately.

• Lithium Battery-Powered Devices: Small vehicles powered by lithium batteries, such as hoverboards, are not allowed. Always check the latest guidelines on restricted items before packing.

Navigation and Offers

• HIAQatar App: Download the app for real-time updates on flight status, baggage claim, and directions to boarding gates. Enjoy food, beverage, and retail offers from Qatar Duty Free. The app is a valuable resource for navigating the airport and staying informed about your flight.

• Digital Wayfinding: Use QR codes at various digital touchpoints for easy navigation around the terminal. These codes provide quick access to maps, directions, and other essential information, ensuring you never get lost.

Additional Tips

• Plan Ahead: Consider booking flights early to secure better rates and availability. Early booking can also give you more options for seat selection and travel dates.

• Privilege Club Benefits: If you're a Privilege Club member, you can enjoy additional perks like priority check-in and lounge access. These benefits can enhance your travel experience and provide a more comfortable journey.

Traveling during Eid al-Fitr can be a wonderful experience, especially when you're well-prepared. By following these tips from Hamad International Airport, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. From early check-in to navigating the airport's facilities, every step is designed to make your travel experience seamless and stress-free. Whether you're heading home or embarking on a new adventure, HIA is ready to welcome you with its world-class amenities and services. Safe travels!

Air travel involves a balance of rights and responsibilities for both passengers and airlines. To ensure a smooth and fair experience, travelers need to understand their entitlements and obligations.

This guide provides a detailed, point-by-point explanation of passenger rights and responsibilities, covering baggage, flight cancellations, delays, denied boarding, and special needs accommodations. By familiarizing themselves with these guidelines, passengers can navigate air travel with confidence and clarity.

Passenger Rights

1. Baggage Rights and Responsibilities

• Right to Transport Baggage: Passengers can bring baggage as per their reservation, including carry-on and checked luggage, within the airline’s size, weight, and quantity limits.
• Excess Baggage: Additional fees apply for baggage exceeding the allowed limits.

• Compensation for Delayed Baggage:

  • 148 SDR for the first day of delay.

  • 60 SDR for each subsequent day, up to a maximum of 1288 SDR.

• Compensation for Lost or Damaged Baggage:

  • Up to 1288 SDR for lost baggage.

  • Up to 1288 SDR for damaged baggage, unless the damage is due to inherent flaws.

• Declaration of High-Value Items: Passengers must declare high-value items in advance to qualify for higher compensation.
• 21-Day Rule: If baggage is missing for 21 days, it is considered lost.

2. Force Majeure

• Airlines’ Obligations: Notify passengers of changes and provide necessary support during extraordinary events.
• Exclusions: Airlines cannot claim force majeure for technical issues, operational errors, or negligence.

• Passenger Rights:

  • Cancel the contract if delays exceed 3 hours for domestic flights or 6 hours for international flights.

  • Receive a full refund without deductions.

3. Flight Cancellations

• Permitted Cancellations: Only for force majeure, safety, or security reasons, supported by GACA reports.

• Passenger Options:

  • Accept alternative flights.

  • Receive compensation if they decline alternatives.

• Compensation Structure:

  • 50% of the ticket value if notified 60-14 days before departure.

  • 75% if notified 14-24 hours before.

  • 150% if notified within 24 hours.

• Discounted Flights: Compensation based on the highest fare in the booked class.

• Limited Flight Airports: Airlines must arrange alternative transportation.

4. Class Downgrades

• Passenger Agreement: If passengers agree to a lower class, airlines must refund the price difference and provide 50% of the difference as compensation.
• Contract Termination: Passengers can cancel the contract and receive a refund plus 200% compensation.

5. Denied Boarding

• Higher Class Availability: Airlines cannot deny boarding if seats are available in a higher class.

• Passenger Rights:

  • Informed of their rights.

  • Offered alternative flights or a refund with 100% compensation.

• Special Needs Passengers: Entitled to 200% compensation if denied boarding.

6. Flight Delays

• Notification: Passengers must be informed of delays at least 45 minutes before departure, with updates every 30 minutes.

• Compensation:

  • 50 SDR for delays of 3-6 hours.

  • 150 SDR for delays over 6 hours.

• Contract Termination: Passengers can cancel the contract for delays exceeding 2 hours, receiving a full refund.

• Extended Delays: Delays over 5 hours are treated as cancellations.

7. Advancing Flights

• Permitted Reasons: Only for safety or security reasons.

• Passenger Options:

  • Accept the new flight.

  • Choose an alternative flight with compensation for delays.

• Contract Termination: If the contract is terminated, the flight is treated as canceled.

8. Tarmac Delays

• Airlines’ Obligations: Provide access to toilets, proper ventilation, food, drinks, and communication options.
• Passenger Rights: After 3 hours, passengers may choose to disembark.

9. Stopovers and Connecting Flights

• Single Journey: Connecting flights are considered a single journey.
• Passenger Information: Airlines must inform passengers of stopovers and the actual carriers for each segment.
• Unannounced Stopovers: Passengers are entitled to 100 SDR compensation per stop.
• Contract Termination: Passengers can cancel their contract for added stopovers, receiving a full refund.
• Security-Related Stops: Exempt from compensation.

10. Passengers with Disabilities and Special Needs

• Disclosure: Passengers must disclose disabilities or special needs during booking.
• Equipment Transport: Airlines must transport necessary equipment free of charge and ensure it arrives with the passenger.
• Wheelchair Delay: An alternative must be provided immediately, with 100 SDR compensation if unavailable.
• Denied Boarding: Entitled to 200% compensation if denied boarding.

11. Care and Support

• Refreshments: Provided after 1 hour of delay.
• Meals: Provided after 3 hours of delay.
• Accommodation: Provided after 6 hours of delay.

Passenger Responsibilities

• Review Terms: Understand the carriage contract before booking.

• Accurate Information: Provide correct contact details during booking.

• Timely Arrival: Arrive at the airport on time and follow airline instructions.

• Travel Documents: Complete all required travel documents.

• Disclosure: Disclose any disabilities or special needs during booking.

• Behavior: Adhere to public decency and safety regulations; avoid disruptive behavior.

This guide ensures that passengers are well-informed about their rights and obligations, fostering a fair and efficient air travel experience for all. By understanding these points, travelers can better navigate their journeys and address any issues that may arise.

Visas are mandatory for entry into Oman, except for visitors from GCC countries. All visa applications must be submitted through the Royal Oman Police’s eVisa portal at Click here  A valid passport is required, which must remain valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Oman.

Visa Eligibility

Citizens from 103 countries can enter Oman without a prior tourist visa and stay for up to 14 days. Other nationalities must apply for an e-Visa, ensuring their passport is valid for six months from the entry date. The application requires two digital passport-sized photos on a white background, and all visas must be applied for online at least four days before travel.

Apply Now

Tourist Visa

Tourist visa requirements vary by country. It is advisable to obtain an e-Visa before traveling, as processing can take up to four days. To apply, visit Click here

Questions & Answers

Applying for a Visa:

• How to reprint the visa after approval?

  1. Log in to your account on the website.
  2. Search for the visa application.
  3. Fill in at least one field (travel document number).
  4. Click “view visa details” and then “generate PDF.”

• How to reprint the visa application and payment receipt?
  After applying and paying, a copy is sent to your registered email, which can be printed from there.

• Available visa types on the eVisa system:

  1. Unsponsored tourist visa.
  2. Sponsored tourist visa.
  3. Tourist visa for GCC residents.
  4. Express visa.

• Visa validity before use:

  1. One month for Unsponsored.
  2. Three months for Sponsored tourist visa.
  3. One month for Express visa.

• Reapplying for more information:

  1. Log in to your account.
  2. Go to Visa Application Inquiry.
  3. Select the request to modify and add the data.
  4. Add a comment and resubmit.
• When a company submits a request for accreditation and enters its registration number, a notification will display stating: (That there are no documents available)

It is essential to ensure that the company is registered in the system prior to applying for accreditation from the Directorate General of Passports and Residence.

• When the admin chooses the accreditation type, they are prohibited from applying for a visa, and a message will be displayed indicating:  (This action is not allowed.)

• When submitting a visa application, a notification may indicate that the sponsor's status is pending:

It is necessary to update the sponsor's information, including activation details, as well as any changes to contact information like email, phone number, and company name. If the notification persists, it is advisable to consult with the Directorate General of Passports and Residence for further assistance.

Processing Times and Travel:

• How long to receive an e-Visa?
  Applications are processed as quickly as possible, but it is recommended to apply at least four days in advance.

• How to obtain a visa at land border posts?
  Apply for a tourist visa via the website and enter Oman through legal borders.

• Is the visa free for travelers from Dubai/Qatar?
  Yes, if traveling directly from Dubai/Qatar, a joint visa is available via paper application.

• Traveling from Dubai to Oman as a GCC resident:
  Use Visa Type 29A (for main travelers) or 29B (for companions).

• Is the visa available at Oman's border posts?
  eVisas are preferred, but paper applications will be available in exceptional cases.

General Questions

• Is the electronic visa application available in German?
  Currently, it is only available in Arabic and English.

• How can elders obtain an electronic visa without internet access?
  They can seek assistance from someone familiar with the internet or a tourist travel office.

• Is there a visa office at the airport?
  Yes, there will be a visa office to process applications.

• Can anyone submit an e-visa application for someone else?
  Yes, anyone can fill out and submit an application on behalf of another person.

• What is the minimum passport validity required?
  A passport should be valid for at least six months prior to entering Oman.

• Are there changes for seafarers and cruise ship passengers?
  They still obtain visas through the traditional system.

For additional questions about visas, contact the call center:

• Inside Oman: 80080011
• Outside Oman: +968 22848200
• Email: [email protected]

File Size Limits: Passport and photo must not exceed 512 KB.

Delivery Policy: Once payment and application submission are successful, if approved, the electronic visa will be sent to your registered email. Note that payment does not guarantee visa issuance.

Refund and Return Policy: For payment issues, contact the call center as listed above.