Doha airport sees record departures during Eid

Passengers departing from  Doha International Airport (DIA)  are expected to cross the figure of 250,000 during the Eid holiday week, according to an official.

DIA spokesman Abdulaziz Abdulla al-Mass said: “More than 250,000 passengers are expected to depart from DIA during the Eid holiday week, making this one of the busiest weeks of the year to date.”

In 2012, passenger figures at DIA grew at a rate of 16.87% compared with 15.16% in 2011. The airport catered to more than 21mn  passengers during 2012 and the number  is expected to grow significantly this year.

Doha International Airport has said it will have additional staff in the departures and arrival terminals and open more check-in counters to reduce queues, “ensuring passengers continue to enjoy a pleasant experience”.

Passengers are encouraged to use the web check-in facility provided by Qatar Airways and most other airlines before departing for the airport.  

The web check-in service enables passengers to complete formalities between 24 and 48 hours prior to their scheduled flight departure time depending on the airline. Check-in can be done at home, office or anywhere through their mobile devices. Passengers can also print their boarding passes before arriving at DIA to reduce their check-in time.

The airport is in the process of modifying the car park at the arrival terminal, with the work expected to be complete by October this year. Part of the project will include the creation of a dedicated pick-up zone in front of the arrival terminal. Sixty-five pickup positions  will be available for public use.  

DIA authorities  explained that a portion of the existing car parking area has been closed to facilitate construction work for the Doha Metro project of Qatar Railways Company (Qatar Rail).

DIA authorities have advised visitors to the airport to leave their vehicles in the “short-term” car park to help reduce traffic congestion and delays for passengers in front of departures and arrival terminals. This arrangement will be a temporary measure until the original car park is modified.

People visiting the arrivals terminal have also been urged to consider taking taxis to and from the terminal during the Eid holidays in view of the rush and inadequate  parking space.