Hamad International Airport officially has introduced its airport expansion project, which will enhance passengers' experiences and transform HIA into an extraordinary destination where any journey is worthwhile. Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker stated, “We are very pleased to be launching the expansion of Hamad International Airport, an airport that has truly grown to become the ultimate example of a successful, sustainable global facility. HIA continues to impress with innovative planning, execution and investment- enhancing its position as the preferred hub for global travellers and reinforcing HIA’s position among the top leaders of this industry. The opening of our newly expanded terminal further connects the growing number of travellers to all corners of the world, enriching people’s experiences and proudly representing the state of Qatar’s rich culture and prestige.” Engr Badr Mohammed Al Meer, Chief Operating Officer at HIA, commented on the expansion, saying, “We are immensely proud to officially launch our airport expansion. Our growth plan will see us welcome over 58 million passengers annually- offering global travellers the best services the industry has to offer. Through the expansion, we have upgraded our facilities and offerings- creating the ultimate destination for passengers.” The ORCHARD: A TROPICAL MASTERPIECE The newly announced ORCHARD - a tropical garden located at the heart of the terminal expansion - exemplifies HIA's ambitious and futuristic vision. The ORCHARD is an indoor tropical garden with a beautiful water feature that will serve as a focal point for HIA visitors. The ORCHARD features a diverse range of flora, including over 300 trees and 25,000 plants sourced from sustainable forests around the world. The two-time world's best airport, consisting of one large terminal, will welcome passengers with facilities and services tailored to all ages. The expansion now allows visitors to move from one area to another while discovering the wonders that HIA has to offer with its infused warmth and hospitality. The expanded retail offering also includes an unrivalled selection of luxury boutiques, such as the first Dior Boutique at HIA, the only FIFA shop in the world, the only Thom Brown store in an airport, the largest Ray Ban store in an airport, and a lineup of prestigious brands such as the flagship Louis Vuitton Boutique, Gucci, Burberry, Tiffany and Co Bvlgari, and many more world class brands. As part of the overall expansion, HIA has opened the Oryx Garden Hotel, the second airport hotel within its transfer area. The 100-room hotel, located in the north plaza, focuses on sustainability, with rooms ranging from king to twin, as well as suites strategically located moments away from the boarding gates. Four brand-new lounges for passengers to relax and unwind are part of the expansion project. With sustainability at the forefront of HIA's plans, four of the airport's expansion projects have received a four-star rating from the Gulf Organization for Research and Development under the Global Sustainability Assessment System (GSAS). With Phase A of HIA's expansion plans completed, Phase B of the expansion, scheduled to begin in early 2023, will increase capacity to well over 70 million passengers. As the award-winning airport continues to transform the industry with innovative experiences and breathtaking features, it looks forward to a bright, sustainable future with limitless possibilities. See also: Foundation stone laid for expansion of Gwalior airport Rourkela airport gets nod for expansion