A preview of the 2024 airport rankings shows Doha’s Hamad International Airport as among the top ten busiest in the world for international passengers.
This month, The Airports Council International (ACI), the premiere global body advancing excellence in airport operations, safety, and security, named Hamad International Airport (HIA) as one of the world’s top ten busiest airports for international travel in 2024. The recently released ranking is part of ACI’s preview into its 2024 rankings of the world’s busiest airports, set to be released in July.
HIA welcomed 52.7 million travelers last year, which is an 14.8% increase from 2023 and an even larger 35.9% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
“These hubs are vital arteries of trade, commerce, and connectivity,” said ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci. “Amid global challenges, the resilience of the world’s busiest airports shines.”
ACI reports that global passenger traffic hit 9.5 billion in 2024, up 9% from 2023 and 3.8% above 2019, with projections reaching 9.9 billion in 2025.
“As the industry moves into a new era of growth, the airport industry must focus on financial viability, investment in infrastructure, operational efficiency, and sustainability,” the preview reads.
A global gateway between East and West
In a January news report from ACI, HIA was recognized for its capacity to manage high volumes efficiently and with award-winning service.
Accolades accumulated in 2025 include the Skytrax World Airport Awards in Madrid, where HIA snagged Best Airport in the Middle East (11th consecutive year), Best Airport Shopping (3rd year in a row), and a prestigious 5-Star Airport rating.
Part of its success is HIA’s seamless connectivity, cutting-edge design, and standout features including the iconic Orchard indoor tropical garden.
Cargo growth adds to HIA’s momentum
ACI noted that air cargo in general has increased globally last year, fueled by surging e-commerce demand, disruptions in maritime shipping that have shifted cargo to air, and lower jet fuel prices that have made air transport more cost-effective.
HIA is the home base for Qatar Airways Cargo, one of the world’s largest freight carriers.
According to Airways Magazine, in 2024, the airport handled over 2.6 million metric tonnes of cargo, earning it the 8th spot globally for cargo traffic.
