Covid-19 Safety Measures at Doha Hamad International Airport

International travel has become a whole lot more complicated since Covid-19 arrived, with airports around the world changing the way they operate. Qatar is no exception, and there are a range of new things to know about when flying into Doha. To help smooth out arrivals, here's our quick guide to the Covid-19 Safety Measurements at Doha Hamad International Airport. With a little research, getting through immigration and customs should be a breeze.

What airport measures are currently in place for travelers at Doha Hamad International Airport?

Doha's airport authorities have been among the most pro-active in the Middle East when it comes to Covid safety, and Qatari capital's airport has been awarded a 5-star Skytrax rating - the best there is. From enhanced cleaning and rigorous social distancing to mandatory mask wearing, PPE access, and testing processes, the airport is well setup to ensure passenger safety during the pandemic.

Are there any new immigration or security processes to know about at Doha Hamad?

Importantly, access to Qatar has been restricted since mid 2020 as a response to the Covid crisis. This means that only Qatari nationals, the children and spouses of Qatari citizens, residents permit holders can use Doha Hamad International Airport. So flying isn't an option for casual tourists. Regular travelers should also note that the E-Gates at Doha Hamad are not operational. Otherwise, immigration proceeds as normal and there are no special security measures in place.

Do passengers need to undergo screening when they arrive?

All travelers arriving at Doha Hamad International Airport must undergo thermal screening before they are allowed to proceed to baggage reclaim which determines whether they are running a temperature. All passengers must download the EHTERAZ app before flying, which includes the Qatari contact tracing system. And all travelers will need to take a Covid test upon arrival before they move onto their designated quarantine hotel.

What are the mask wearing policies at the airport?

Almost all travelers arriving at or transiting through Doha Hamad International Airport must wear masks while they are on the site. Children under the age of 2 are not required to wear a mask. Face shields can be purchased at the pharmacies, retail stores, and vending machines within the airport terminal.

Is there a clinic at Doha Hamad International Airport?

Yes, there is. Doha Hamad has two Hamad Medical Corporation Centers on the site, including on in the Arrivals Terminal. The clinics are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, while vehicles are also available to act as ambulances if passengers need to be transported to the emergency centers quickly. Pharmacies can be found in every terminal, providing an easy way to pick up medications and medical accessories.

What are the cleaning policies at Doha Hamad?

Cleaning processes have been enhanced across the Doha Hamad site, including the deployment of innovative cleaning robots to ensure that contact between passengers and staff is minimized. Handrails, trolleys and floors are sanitized every 10-15 minutes. Boarding gates and bus gas countries are also cleaned after each flight. Passengers can use sanitizer dispensers throughout the site, while it's also easy to purchase hand sanitizer from vending machines if needed. Contactless technology is also widely used within the airport, in elevators or regarding payment for instance, for increased health safety.

Are shops and restaurants open as normal?

Many shops and restaurants at Doha Hamad International were forced to close temporarily in 2020, but they have been reopened across the site. Passengers can shop for travel essentials, fashion items and duty free goods, while foods from across the world are available for snacks and meals. Expect social distancing to be routine where tables are involved. Contactless payment is also encouraged and terminals are available in all businesses at the airport.

Are there any special guidelines or other information that travelers should be aware of?

Yes, all travelers must quarantine upon arrival in Qatar in designated hotel facilities, however, passengers traveling from the "green-list" are allowed for home-quarantine. Only designated Covid-safe hotels can be used, and they must be booked via Discover Qatar. Head here to make a booking and ensure that there won't be any difficulties with the authorities. Also, remember that all arrivals need to download the EHTERAZ app and show proof that they have done so. There are no exemptions for this, and travelers without a smartphone will need to purchase one on site before they can leave the airport. Additionally, travelers should note that only passengers are allowed inside the terminal. So arrange to meet relatives or taxis outside the entrance. Complimentary baby strollers are currently not available.

Where can travelers find official information about arriving at Doha Hamad International?

Being informed is always important when traveling during a pandemic, so it makes sense to bookmark key Qatari resources before flying into Doha Hamad International Airport. The airport's own Covid Impact FAQ is a good place to start, as is the information with Qatar Airways (which uses Doha Hamad as its international hub). Finally, stay up to date with Qatari Covid regulations by bookmarking the Government Communications Office website. It's full of information about immigration rules and quarantine policies.

*Return fares per person, including taxes, excluding a US$ 4.99 booking fee.