Qatar crowned ‘World’s Best Airport,’ UAE’s Dubai airport ups position to seventh

Qatar’s Hamad International Airport has been crowned ‘World’s Best Airport’ after it toppled its Asian rival, Singapore’s Changi Airport – 12-time winner, according to the latest rankings by Skytrax World Airport Awards 2024.

Skytrax, a UK-based airline and airport review ranking site surveys travelers from around the globe every year to compile a list of the best airports in the world. This year Qatar’s airport was awarded the top position for its ultra-modern design, easy-to-navigate terminals and high-end shopping.

Singapore had the title in 2023 and 2020, while Doha was voted the best in 2022 and 2021.

“This is a remarkable achievement for Hamad International Airport, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary of operational excellence, connecting passengers seamlessly from all around the world. It is a testament to the dedication of our team and partners, who have contributed to providing passengers with the finest travel experience. Our continuous investment in our facilities and pioneering initiatives in retail and hospitality within a single expansive terminal has made this achievement possible,” Qatar Airways Group CEO, Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said in a statement.

He added: “At the heart of our growth strategy lies the passengers’ journey, their evolving needs, and our commitment to meeting and exceeding their expectations.”

Hamad International Airport saw an exceptional surge in passenger traffic in 2023, serving over 45 million passengers – a 31 percent increase compared to 2022 — surpassing the momentum seen during the FIFA World Cup hosted by Qatar.

The UAE’s Dubai International Airport earned the seventh position, jumping from 17th place last year.

Seol’s Incheon grabbed the third place – also being named 2024’s most family friendly airport – while Tokyo’s twin facilities of Haneda and Narita took fourth and fifth position.

Jumping by 22 positions to 11th place, Hong Kong airport saw a significant boost after the passenger numbers rose post COVID-19.

American airports did not make it to the top of the list, with Seattle-Tacoma going down six places to 24.

Europe reflected a strong position once again, with Paris Charles de Gaulle, Munich, Zurich and Istanbul all maintaining positions in the top 10.

Below are the world’s best airports of 2024, alongside last year’s rankings:

1. Doha Hamad (2)
2. Singapore Changi (1)
3. Seoul Incheon (4)
4. Tokyo Haneda (3)
5. Tokyo Narita (9)
6. Paris CDG (5)
7. Dubai (17)
8. Munich (7)
9. Zurich (8)
10. Istanbul (6)
11. Hong Kong (33)
12. Rome Fiumicino (13)
13. Vienna (11)
14. Helsinki-Vantaa (12)
15. Madrid-Barajas (10)
16. Centrair Nagoya (16)
17. Vancouver (20)
18. Kansai (15)
19. Melbourne (19)
20. Copenhagen (14)