Your complete guide to Hamad International Airport

Hamad International Airport (DOH) is the hub of Qatar Airways and one of the world's leading transfer airports, connecting East and West through a single stop in Doha. This independent passenger guide gathers everything you need in one place, how to get to and from the airport, what taxis and private transfers involve, where to rent a car or park, what to expect on arrival and departure, and how to make the most of a layover. Our aim is to make your journey through DOH clear and stress-free, whether Doha is your destination or simply where you change planes.

About the airport

DOH lies about 15 km south-east of central Doha, the capital of Qatar, roughly a 15–25 minute drive from the city. It operates from one large, modern terminal, expanded in 2022 with new concourses and The Orchard indoor garden, and serves as the base for Qatar Airways, linking Doha to destinations across six continents. Qatar keeps Arabia Standard Time (UTC+3) all year; the local currency is the Qatari riyal (QAR), and cards are widely accepted.

Getting from the airport to the city

Getting into the city is easy: the Doha Metro Red Line has its own station at the airport, running straight into the centre, and taxis, private transfers and car rental are all on hand. The main options are:

  • Karwa taxis, official metered cabs wait outside arrivals; an airport pick-up fee may apply (see our Doha airport taxi guide).
  • Private transfers, pre-booked, door-to-door rides at a fixed price (compare on our airport transfers page).
  • Ride-hailing, Uber and Careem operate in Doha, from a designated pick-up point.
  • Car rental, desks inside the terminal, handy for exploring at your own pace.
  • Hotel shuttles, offered by many hotels; confirm when you book.

Changing planes in Doha

As a major hub, Doha is built for connecting passengers. The airport has an in-terminal transit hotel, extensive lounges, a spa, pool and quiet rooms, The Orchard indoor garden and the famous Lamp Bear sculpture, and with the right entry permission you can even slip into the city on a longer stop. See our layover guide to plan a comfortable connection.

At the airport

The terminal covers everything for a smooth trip: an extensive duty-free hall and shopping, restaurants and cafés, lounges and a transit hotel, prayer rooms, car-rental and taxi desks, ATMs and currency exchange, free Wi-Fi, and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. For live arrival and departure times, always check with your airline or the airport's official channels before you travel.

This is an independent passenger guide, not the official airport operator.