Operational Update

Airline partners resume flights to Hamad International Airport.

Starting 21 April 2026, airline partners are gradually resuming operations at Hamad International Airport, in line with the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority's recent announcement.

For bookings and… pic.twitter.com/boJDSDIFZ8

— Hamad Int'l Airport (@HIAQatar) April 21, 2026

The Qatar Civil Aviation Authority said the decision comes after a full assessment of the situation. Officials stressed that all flights will follow strict international safety and security standards. Measures are in place to protect both passengers and aviation staff. The reopening follows a temporary shutdown of Qatari airspace earlier this year due to rising tensions in the region.

Flight activity had already partially resumed in March, but only under limited conditions. During that period, Qatar Airways continued to operate a small number of flights, mainly focused on repatriation, essential travel and cargo. These flights connected Doha with major European cities such as London, Paris, Madrid, Rome and Frankfurt. However, the airline was the only carrier allowed to operate, and capacity remained very restricted. The latest announcement marks a broader reopening, with foreign airlines now set to return and overall operations increasing.

At the same time, Qatar Airways is expanding its network ahead of the busy summer season. From mid-June, the airline plans to serve more than 150 destinations worldwide. This includes dozens of routes across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the Americas. The goal is to reconnect passengers with more destinations and increase travel options during peak months. Before the crisis, the airline served over 170 destinations globally. 

For travellers, this gradual reopening means more flexibility when planning trips through Doha. More flights will become available, although schedules may still change at short notice. Passengers are advised to check for updates regularly and review their booking options. Many tickets remain flexible, allowing changes or refunds depending on availability.

Qatar Airways announces resumption of flight operations between Doha and key destinations across the Middle East, reinstating daily services to the United Arab Emirates and Syria.

Starting 23 April 2026, Qatar Airways will resume daily flights to Dubai (DXB), and Sharjah (SHJ),… pic.twitter.com/s3TdWpHGEW

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) April 23, 2026

The reopening of Doha’s hub is also important because of its role in global travel. Hamad International Airport is a key connection point between Europe, Asia and Africa. When operations are disrupted, it affects not only Qatar but also international travel flows. Restoring flights helps stabilise routes and improve connectivity worldwide. It also supports airlines and tourism industries that depend on these links.

However, the recovery comes at a challenging time for aviation. Airlines around the world are facing rising fuel costs, which have increased sharply in recent months. Fuel is one of the biggest expenses for airlines, often making up around 30% of total costs. As a result, many carriers are increasing ticket prices, reducing flights or adding extra charges. This means travellers may still face higher costs even as routes reopen.

Overall, the return of foreign airlines to Doha shows that the situation is improving, though the recovery is expected to take time. Flights are gradually resuming, but the global aviation sector remains under pressure with the summer season approaching. Demand is set to rise significantly, while challenges such as fuel prices and operational limits persist. Travellers can expect more options, but some uncertainty is likely to remain in the months ahead.

L’article Foreign carriers to gradually resume flights at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Given the current security crisis in the Middle East following the Israel-U.S. attack on Iran, air traffic in the region has been severely impacted. At the moment of writing, Qatari airspace is still closed, which caused Qatar Airways to halt its operations.

Qatar Airways Operates Limited Flight Schedule to and from Doha

With Qatar Airways flights still temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace, we are doing everything possible to support affected passengers and help reunite them with family and loved ones. We… pic.twitter.com/a8zuKMzJw0

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) March 10, 2026

On 10 March 2026, however, the airline informed travellers that it had received temporary authorisation from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority for a limited number of operating corridors. The airline will be organising several repatriation flights to and from Doha on 12 and 13 March, allowing passengers to “support passengers who have been affected by the current disruption, and to help them reunite with family and friends as quickly and safely as possible.”

To book these flights and to stay updated about the latest flight schedules, travellers are invited to visit the Qatar Airways website or app, or to contact their travel agent. According to the airline, the announced flights should not be seen as a confirmation of the resumption of scheduled commercial operations.

Limited passenger repatriation flights are currently being operated to and from Doha.

Passengers are reminded not to proceed to the airport at this time unless they have a valid and confirmed ticket.

For further guidance visit our FAQs https://t.co/JD4Ivsl7yW or view our thread…

— Hamad Int'l Airport (@HIAQatar) March 9, 2026

“With Qatar Airways scheduled flight operations still temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace, we want you to know that we are doing our utmost to support you with your journey, and to reunite you with your family and loved ones. We recognise this situation may be unsettling, and are working to keep you moving while we prepare for the safe return of our usual operations. Your patience and understanding mean a great deal to us, and we are truly grateful for your continued support at this challenging time. Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe full reopening of Qatari airspace by the relevant authorities”, Qatar Airways wrote.

Qatar Airways also reminds its travellers of the fact that those who have a confirmed booking with a travel date between 28 February and 22 March 2026 are eligible for two complimentary date changes of up to 14 days from the original travel date or a refund of the unused value of their ticket.

L’article Qatar Airways announces limited flight schedule to and from Doha on 12 and 13 March est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

On Sunday, 8 March, incoming flights to Doha took place from Bangkok, Frankfurt, London Heathrow, Madrid, Paris Charles de Gaulle, and Rome, thanks to “temporary authorisation for a limited operating corridor” from the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority.

Emphasising that these flights did not “constitute a confirmation of resumption of scheduled commercial operations,” the airline said in a press release that they were only “for passengers whose final destination is Doha.” It added: “Please do not make your way to the airport unless you hold a valid confirmed booking to Doha.” It also sought to reassure the public that “the safety and well-being of our passengers and crew remain our highest priority during this time.”

Qatar Airways Operates Limited Flight Schedule to and from Doha.

Qatar Airways scheduled flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace. Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe full…

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) March 8, 2026

Amid airspace closures and air strikes from Iran, Qatari authorities have been covering the costs of hotels and temporary visas for an estimated 8,000 visitors unable to leave the city. At least some of those will finally be able to leave on Monday, 9 March, thanks to the flag carrier’s announcement of additional departures to Beijing, Delhi, Islamabad, London Heathrow, Madrid, Moscow, Nairobi, Perth, and Seoul.

The following day, Tuesday, 10 March, will see departures heading to Cairo, Colombo, Delhi, Frankfurt, Islamabad, Istanbul, Jeddah, Kochi, London Heathrow, Madrid, Manila, Milan, Mumbai, Muscat, and Nairobi.

Meanwhile, also on Tuesday, passengers will be able to fly into Doha on planes returning from Beijing, Delhi, Islamabad, London Heathrow, Madrid, Moscow, Perth, Nairobi, and Seoul. And Wednesday 11 March will see the returns from Cairo, Colombo, Delhi, Frankfurt, Istanbul, Islamabad, Jeddah, Kochi, London Heathrow, Madrid, Manila, Milan, Mumbai, Muscat, and Nairobi.

Qatar Airways Operates Limited Flight Schedule to and from Doha

Qatar Airways scheduled flight operations remain temporarily suspended due to the closure of Qatari airspace. Qatar Airways will resume operations once the Qatar Civil Aviation Authority announces the safe full…

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) March 8, 2026

With flights to over 170 destinations across more than 90 countries worldwide, Doha’s Hamad is one of the world’s major transit hubs, alongside others in the Middle East region, such as the world’s busiest international airport in Dubai. As such, its closure to normal scheduled operations is a blow to commercial aviation and vast numbers of passengers whose long-haul connections have been disrupted by the effect of US-Israeli attacks on Iran, and the subsequent retaliations.

Qatar Airways is not the only carrier unable to run its usual schedules, or attempting to operate rescue flights in and out of the Middle East in the days since the current hostilities began. However, it was voted the World’s Best Airline by Skytrax in 2025 for a record ninth time and is a high-demand carrier, described last year by its Chief Commercial Officer, Thierry Antinori, as offering “5-star services to some of the most prominent destinations in the world, most notably for London, Dublin, Cape Town, and Sao Paulo.” Its inability to operate normally affects thousands of passengers per day.

It remains unclear when the security crisis will end, after signals from US President Trump that he intends to escalate attacks on Iran, and mixed messages from the Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, including apologies for the impact on Gulf neighbours and vows to continue to do so if territories allow themselves to be used as a US or Israeli base.

L’article Qatar Airways announces emergency flight schedule for Doha amid ongoing security crisis est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

While the garden city of Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates had the honour of being the GCC Tourism Capital of 2025, that honour has now been taken over by Doha. According to the council, Qatar’s capital stood out because of its varied tourism experience. In its submission, Qatar Tourism particularly highlighted the city’s transport infrastructure, such as the award-winning Hamad International Airport and the Doha Metro & Tram.

“The selection of Doha as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026 marks an important milestone that underscores the success of our leadership’s strategic vision in establishing tourism as a central pillar of the National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030. This recognition reflects the qualitative progress achieved in building an integrated and sustainable tourism ecosystem that is competitive at both regional and global levels, supported by world-class infrastructure, strong connectivity, and an exceptional visitor experience”, stated His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism.

What to expect?

Travellers visiting Doha will soon be able to consult the city’s dedicated GCC Tourism Capital programme, but in the meantime, the Qatari capital already has plenty to offer. For example, the Katara Cultural Village is a perfect place for gallery lovers and cultural fanatics to roam around, while the National Museum of Qatar is the ideal destination to learn more about the country’s rich history. Meanwhile, Doha’s Souq Waqif is a shopping heaven, whether looking for spices, souvenirs, or interior decoration. And sports fans will find what their heart desires at the Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum and the Lusail International Circuit.

While more is yet to come, Doha’s event calendar for 2026 is already well-stocked. The Art Basel Qatar will be taking place in the capital from 5 to 7 February 2026, the Doha Film Festival is scheduled for sometime around November, and the Qatar Balloon Festival will happen in December.

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A post shared by Art Basel (@artbasel)

Over the past few years, Qatar has been diversifying its economy, with tourism becoming one of the main pillars for the country’s future development. Within that plan, Doha plays a key role. In line with the Qatar National Vision 2030, expanding the offer concerning eco-friendly accommodation, transportation, and tourism in general has become increasingly important. Doha’s appointment as GCC Tourism Capital of 2026 will likely further accentuate that trend.

L’article Doha chosen as GCC Tourism Capital of 2026 est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Following Iran’s warning of imminent strikes, Qatar closed its airspace as a precaution until further notice. On Monday, Iran launched an attack on the Al Udeid Air Base near Doha, which houses approximately 8,000 US troops and serves as the headquarters for US Central Command’s Middle East operations. According to reports, nine out of ten missiles were intercepted, and the tenth landed in an uninhabited area. The attack caused no casualties. Warnings had been issued in advance to the US, prompting shelter-in-place orders for American personnel and citizens present in the country. The UK government also advised its nationals to take shelter.

Qatar airspace is now open and flights are landing at Doha. https://t.co/LSzIe2auYa pic.twitter.com/UImdMec8cR

— Flightradar24 (@flightradar24) June 23, 2025

Footage of missiles being intercepted by Qatari air defence systems was captured by a passenger aboard a plane that had been en route to Qatar but was diverted to Dammam, Saudi Arabia. In the immediate aftermath, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, where air raid sirens were also triggered, closed their airspace to air traffic.

Iran’s attack came in response to US strikes against six nuclear facilities in Iran. Tehran stated that the operation was a direct warning to the United States, pledging that ‘no attack on its territorial integrity, sovereignty, and national security would go unanswered’. Qatar airspace reopens after Iranian attack on US forces.

Qatar strongly condemned the missile strike on its soil, calling it a ‘dangerous escalation’ and ‘violation of its sovereignty’. 

By Tuesday morning, US President Donald Trump announced what he described as a fully agreed ceasefire between Iran and Israel. Iran, however, denied that a ceasefire had been negotiated.

Soon after Trump’s announcement, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain said they would reopen their airspace. Qatar Airways issued a statement confirming the ‘reinstatement of flights following the reopening of airspace in the State of Qatar’.

Qatar Airways confirms reinstatement of flights as airspace reopens in the State of Qatar.

Our focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly.

We’ve deployed extra ground staff at Hamad International Airport to support…

— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) June 23, 2025

Hamad International Airport, a major global hub serving 90 countries and the base for Qatar Airways, resumed operations. The airline said: “Our focus at this time is to help our passengers return home or reach their onward journey safely and smoothly. We are working tirelessly with government stakeholders and the relevant authorities to restore operations as quickly as possible.” Qatar Airways added that extra ground staff had been deployed to assist affected passengers, although significant delays were still expected.

Hamad International Airport’s operations are gradually recovering and returning to normal.
During this transition, we apologize for any inconvenience caused by the rescheduling of affected flights, and appreciate our passengers understanding and patience.
We advise our passengers…

— Hamad Int'l Airport (@HIAQatar) June 24, 2025

Before the airspace closure, several international airlines – including Singapore Airlines, Air France, British Airways, and Finnair – had announced the suspension of flights to Doha and Dubai following the initial US strikes on Iran.

The situation remains highly volatile across the region. Travellers are advised to check their flight status with their airline or travel agent before making any plans.

L’article Qatar reopens airspace after Iran’s attack on US base close to Doha est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The Visa Waiver Program is a reciprocity system enabling citizens of eligible countries to travel to the United States without obtaining a visa and vice versa. So far, 41 countries have made it onto the list, which isn’t just a way of boosting tourism but also secure better economic and security ties with other Visa Waiver Program countries. 

“The Visa Waiver Program is one of our most successful security initiatives. Qatar’s participation in the program increases information sharing regarding one of the world’s busiest travel and transfer hubs, strengthening the security of the United States”, said US Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.

Starting no later than December 1, 2024, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) online application and mobile app will be updated to allow citizens and nationals of Qatar to apply to travel to the United States for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days without first obtaining a US visa. As far as US citizens go, they already enjoyed 30-day visa-free travel to Qatar, a duration that will now be extended to 90 days. 

Qatar Joins the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP), reflecting the strong bilateral relationship between the two nations. This step will strengthen our strategic partnership and enhance the flow of people and commerce between Qatar and the US. pic.twitter.com/Xt73SsiIUf

— Qatar Embassy USA (@QatarEmbassyUSA) September 25, 2024

Qatar will be the 42^nd country to join the program, proving to meet strict requirements related to counterterrorism, law enforcement, immigration enforcement, document security and border management. “Qatar’s fulfillment of the stringent security requirements to join the Visa Waiver Program will deepen our strategic partnership and enhance the flow of people and commerce between our two countries,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said. “Qatar’s entry will make travel between the United States and Qatar safer, more secure, and easier for both Americans and Qataris.”

The addition of Qatar to the VWP doesn’t come as a surprise, since the two countries have enjoyed close ties for years. In 2022, Washington even designated Doha as a “major, non-NATO ally”. More recently, Qatar and the US have been playing an important role in trying to broker a ceasefire to end Israel’s war on the Gaza Strip. Moreover, Qatar has been hosting the largest US military facility in the region, Al Udeid Air Base. 

L’article Qatar becomes first Arab country on US visa-free travel list est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

In what it calls an industry first, the carrier says the opportunity of making customers the stars of the commercial reinforces its dedication to placing customers at its very heart as well as its commitment to developing “incomparable, immersive experiences for everyone”.

“Featuring pioneering AI capabilities unseen elsewhere in the airline industry, our latest campaign not only showcases the innovative spirit driving our brand, but also encapsulates our customer-centric approach, helping to turn every journey into an adventure”, said Qatar Airways COO, Thierry Antinori.

The base commercial features two main characters, a man and a woman, briefly running into each other and seemingly having an instant connection. For almost three minutes, the two then seem to narrowly miss encountering each other again as they travel around the world, with Qatar Airways, to the same destinations at the same time.

The quest of returning a lost earring is finally complete in the Al Mourjan Garden lounge, at Qatar’s Hamad International Airport, twhere the man finally catches up to the woman. Titled “Star in your own adventure”, the clip ends with the protagonists watching a Qatar Airways plane fly by from a rooftop.

The innovation comes as passengers can take or upload pictures of themselves onto the campaign’s website and, through AI, the main characters’ faces are being adapted with their features. The tool does not remake the entire video, just one scene at a time, however, guests can choose whichever of the 10 total scenes and, potentially, remake all of them and put the video back together with their own features.

“Crafting an immersive brand experience where everyone can be the stars, has allowed us to create uniquely personalised connections with our audiences, ensuring every moment is truly unforgettable”, commented the carrier’s Airways Senior Vice President of Global Marketing & Corporate Communications, Babar Rahman.

L’article Qatar Airways employs AI to make passengers the stars of new commercial est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

The update features enlarged double bedding and increased privacy along with 21.5 inch, 4K OLED moveable TV screens as well as USB-C and wireless charging functions, reaching new technological heights in the air carrier world. The customisable nature of the suite allows for “work/life balance”, converting the space from social or “family” configuration into a productive setting. The upgrade also features a new companion suite providing window views which occupies up to two people.

“We are excited to have finally revealed the long-awaited Qsuite Next Gen at the Farnborough International Airshow. Qatar Airways has once again raised the bar for its award-winning product, the Qsuite. We look forward to welcoming media and partners to our stand throughout the week to experience the future of business class travel with the World’s Best Business Class onboard the World’s Best Airline,” commented Chief Executive Officer of Qatar Airways Group, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer at the exhibition.

The other big unveiling from the flight operator, having just won Airline of the Year 2024 and World’s Best Business Class at the Skytrax World Airline Awards, was the introduction of Sama, the world’s first AI Digital Human cabin crew. The AI flight attendant provided a taster for the audience by leading an interactive dialogue on Qatar Airways’ latest advancements, exploring further new features of the suites such as adjustable mood lighting for eating and reading, plus a “make my bed” setting added to the turn-down service. Additional storage is also available to securely store valuables in a digitally locked drawer.

“Qatar Airways is also showcasing its state-of-the-art Boeing B787-9 Dreamliner and Qatar Executive’s all-new Gulfstream G700. We continue to build on our promise of delivering unparalleled excellence in each and every iteration of our products and services. We welcome all visitors to experience the latest era of Qatar Airways at the prestigious Farnborough International Airshow this week,” said Al-Meer.

The new suites will be integrated into the Qatar Airways Boeing B777-9 aircraft by 2025. There is no mention of the upgrades in the airline’s Airbus A350, Boeing 777 jets nor the A380 superjumbo.

L’article Qatar Airways unveils new high-tech business class suites est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

“We are steadily advancing towards realising Qatar’s national vision 2030, building a more prosperous and stable future for coming generations across the economic, social and environmental domains. We are thrilled to contribute to the growth of the tourism and entertainment sector by spearheading innovative projects that meet the rising demand in this crucial industry”, Qatar’s Minister of Municipality, Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah Al Attiyah, said during the launching event.

The Simaisma Project will be managed by the Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company and will included a wide range of offers, including an amusement park. Even though detailed plans have not yet been revealed, the park should surpass Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom in size and should include cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling. 

Aside from the park, a championship golf course, luxury villas, a yacht marina and an array of luxurious restaurants and retail outlets will be built on-site. Moreover, the plans leave room for 16 dedicated zones for private development, meaning there will be multiple opportunities for investors from the tourism industry.

“We have meticulously planned this project under the guidance of the Ministry of Municipality and in alignment with Qatar’s trajectory of continuous growth. This project will establish new benchmarks for tourism in the region and write a new, remarkable chapter in Qatar’s success story”, said Ali bin Mohamed Al-Ali, CEO of the Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company.

Check out our recently launched #simaismaproject pic.twitter.com/gAIekgwbJZ

— الديار القطرية (@qataridiar) June 30, 2024

With the Qatari real estate sector being valued at $485 billion in 2024, it has become the country’s second-biggest industry after the energy sector. The Simaisma Project thus responds to the demand of investors and will boost the tourism sector in the country even more. However, as Qatar has faced criticism in recent years over its treatment of migrant workers, the execution of the project could be decisive for its entire reputation.

L’article Qatar unveils $5.5 billion development project with Disney-sized theme park est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.

Construction for Lusail, started in 2006. Located just 23 kilometres from the country’s capital of Doha, the new city spans over 38 square kilometres and 19 districts. Even though the development of Lusail is being carried out in phases and isn’t complete just yet, eventually, the city will be able to accommodate 450,000 people. Residential projects, schools, hotels, greenery and mosques: everything is planned to be as efficient as possible. To outsiders, the best-known part of Lusail is Qatar’s biggest stadium, which hosted a number of matches during the FIFA World Cup 2022.

The Lusail Museum, which will cover the cultural part of the city, will span over a surface of 11,000 square metres, but the plot of land it will sit on is ten times bigger. The surrounding area will be an integral part of its design, including greenery and relaxation zones where visitors will be able to sit down and take in their surroundings. 

According to architect Jacques Herzog, who previously worked on the M+ Museum in Hong Kong and the Tate Modern in London, the circular design of the museum is inspired both by Muslim architecture and culture and by the surroundings. The crescent-shape of the building and the boulevard inside it weren’t chosen arbitrarily.  “It’s a piece of identity for some Muslim dynasties but also in a more pragmatic way, it’s a boulevard curve where you don’t see exactly where it ends. That’s a detail which is important for us,” Herzog told CNN. “Where you start and where you end is not really predetermined and it leaves room for imagination.”  

We want to do something for which you do not need to import everything. We want to make this building a contribution on the ecological level.

Jacques Herzog, architect

For the construction of the museum, Herzog wants to use as many local resources as possible. Moreover, local plants, solar panels and an efficient water management system will make sure the museum is as eco-friendly as can be. 

Not only the design of the museum but also its contents will be inspired by islamic culture. Orientalist artwork will get a prominent place in four anchor rooms stand central, spaces inspired by Istanbul, Cairo, Zaragoza and Isfahan. Moreover, the museum is meant to function as a “layered souq” by integrating eateries, shops and even a mosque within its walls. 

L’article Qatar’s “city of the future” to get a five-story museum  est apparu en premier sur Travel Tomorrow.