QATAR. Hamad International Airport (HIA) has been voted as Best Airport in the Middle East for the fourth consecutive year by Global Traveler’s GT Tested Reader Survey Awards.
The award, considered one of the business travel industry’s most prestigious and respected accolades, honours HIA’s “sustained, outstanding” customer service in its passenger-oriented airport experience.
For the 17th consecutive year, Global Traveler asked its readers to vote for their favourite travel products and experiences. An estimated 72% of Global Traveler’s readers frequently travel in first and business class.
HIA’s commitment to enhancing passenger wellbeing has allowed the airport to place passengers at the heart of its airport experience. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, HIA has implemented numerous safety, security and wellbeing measures, along with new lifestyle offerings that aid in alleviating the stress caused by travelling during such times of crises.
Hamad International Airport Chief Operating Officer Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer said, ”We would like to thank the distinguished readers of Global Traveler Magazine for voting for us for the fourth year in a row.
“To be recognised for our efforts in ensuring the comfort and peace of mind of our passengers, especially during this unprecedented time, is an honour that bolsters us to continue improving our passengers’ airport experience.”
FXExpress Publications Publisher and CEO Francis X. Gallagher said: “It is a testament to Hamad International Airport’s dedication to a holistic passenger experience that our readers have chosen HIA as the Best Airport in the Middle East for the fourth consecutive year. Congratulations to Hamad International Airport on upholding its role as the avant-garde force in delivering an outstanding airport experience in the region.”
Among several swift and comprehensive steps towards passenger and employee safety amid the pandemic, HIA has implemented the latest technologies such as fully autonomous disinfectant robots, advanced thermal screening helmets, ultraviolet disinfection tunnels for all checked-in passenger luggage and an in-house developed face mask detection system to ensure the use of masks.
HIA’s Smart Airport Program utilises self-service and biometric technology to provide passengers with a safe and contact-free check-in and bag-drop experience.
HIA has also added a suite of services and facilities to improve its passenger experience. It introduced a sleep lounge earlier this year with sleep pods and cabins, where visitors can pay by the hour to relax between flights. It also introduced new food & beverage options at the terminal including the exclusive Harrods Tea Room and a vegan café with a healthy and innovative menu. The airport continues to bolster its array of high-end luxury retail stores with more boutique openings.
Engr. Al Meer continued: “We remain committed to serve our US markets and strengthen the Qatar-US cooperation, which is evident by our national carrier, Qatar Airways rebuilding its network to 11 destinations in the US by March next year.”
Qatar Airways recently announced the launch of four weekly flights to Seattle from 15 March 2021, marking the seventh new destination launched by the carrier since the start of the pandemic. It has also partnered with Alaska Airlines to launch a frequent flyer programme from 15 December 2020. Qatar Airways also plans to implement codeshare cooperation in line with the US carrier, which is set to join oneworld in March 2021.
