Qatar’s Hamad International Airport has once again been crowned the world’s best airport for shopping at the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2024. This prestigious accolade is a testament to the airport’s commitment to creating a world-class retail destination since its inception in 2014.
Handling a record 45.9 million passengers in 2023, Hamad International Airport has outshone its competitors, including the renowned Singapore Changi Airport, to reclaim the title of the ‘World’s Best Airport.’ This achievement is a reflection of the airport’s unwavering commitment to service excellence and its dedication to offering a diverse and luxurious shopping experience to its passengers.
The airport’s wholly-owned retail operator, Qatar Duty Free (QDF), has played a pivotal role in this success. QDF has implemented a strategic plan to ensure incremental retail wins, even during challenging times. In 2023, passenger numbers grew by more than 30% year-over-year, and retail sales reached an estimated $1 billion, demonstrating the effectiveness of QDF’s approach.
The airport’s shopping experience is not limited to luxury brands. It offers a wide range of standard duty-free shopping options, including alcohol, cosmetics, tobacco products, perfumes, and electronics. The airport’s main terminal, with its 40,000 square meters of shopping and dining space, is designed to make shopping accessible to all passengers, regardless of their destination.
Hamad International Airport’s dedication to providing a superior shopping experience extends beyond its physical infrastructure. The airport’s loyalty program, Qatar Airways Privilege Club, allows members to collect and spend Avios at over 200 outlets, including duty-free shops. This innovative approach enhances the shopping experience by offering a seamless, rewarding journey for passengers.
Qatar’s Hamad International Airport has set a new standard for airport shopping experiences. Its commitment to service excellence, diverse retail offerings, and innovative loyalty programs have solidified its position as the world’s best airport for shopping. Whether you’re a luxury shopper or a fan of duty-free bargains, Hamad International Airport offers something for everyone, making it the ultimate destination for a world-class shopping experience.