Countries across the globe have implemented some sort of travel advisory in an effort to contain the spread of the COVID-19 and Qatar is no exception to this. If you are planning to travel or wish to alter your existing travel plans in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, here are a few things you should you! Scroll all the way down to know the answers to the most frequently asked questions relating to travel.
HIA has mentioned the following updates on its website based on the latest guidance of the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar.
Is HIA still open for international flights?
The airport remains open on scaled-down operations. Currently, entry to the State of Qatar is only permitted to Qatari nationals and holders of a permanent residence permit.
As of June 15th, the State of Qatar is gradually lifting restrictions amid precautionary measures, HIA advises people to refer to the Government Communication Office for more information.
So what are the destinations that Qatar Airways is now operating?
Qatar Airways continues operating flights to many cities around the world to help thousands of passengers get home safely. The national carrier of Qatar is now rebuilding its network and recently flights to several destinations have been resumed that include Bangkok, Barcelona, Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Singapore, and Vienna. By the end of June, Qatar Airways aims to have 80 destinations in the schedule including 23 in Europe, four in the Americas, 20 in Middle East/Africa, and 33 in Asia-Pacific. Many cities will be served with a strong schedule with daily or more frequencies. Check here to know the current operational routes.
Can people be dropped off at HIA?
Yes, however, HIA advises departing passengers to check their flight status with the airline. You can refer to HIA’s website for contact details pertaining to all airlines and government entities.
Can I still come to HIA if I am not travelling?
No, only Passengers will valid airline tickets will be permitted in the terminal.
Do I need to arrive to HIA early for my flight?
HIA recommends you to arrive three hours before the departure of your flight. Moreover, passengers are recommended to check with their airlines on the status of their flight before arriving at HIA.
Civil Aviation Authority (QCAA) has released a circular regarding confirmed reservations in quarantine hotels for the passengers travelling out of Doha with a return booking. However, many residents are confused about the requirements prior to the departure. In this context, we reached out to QCAA to have a clear understanding as to who can and cannot depart without quarantine hotel bookings.
Do I need to have a health certificate to travel?
A health certificate is not required, but should you be experiencing symptoms related to COVID 19, please consult a health professional.
Should I wear a facemask and gloves when I travel?
Wearing a facemask is mandatory at all times. However, they are not required at food courts and restaurants.
Are you screening passengers at HIA?
We are continually conducting entry screening for all arriving passengers and crew terminating in Doha on a 24/7 basis. We have installed advanced thermal cameras that can remotely record the body temperature of each passenger. If a passenger is detected to have fever, they are transferred to the special clinic at the airport arrivals side.
Regardless of thermal screening results, all Doha terminating passengers are being quarantined for 14 days.
What cleaning measures and procedures are in place to help protect passengers and staff?
The measures implemented at HIA by MoPH in response to Coronavirus (COVID-19) that include the thermal screening of all arriving and departing passengers and crew at all operational gates (North Node D3 & E3), thermal screening cameras across the terminal. A 24/7 medical clinic has been also set up at the airport, operated by Ministry of Public Health Qatar and all transfer passengers are being screened before they board their onward flight. In addition to that airport, employees have been provided additional training to protect themselves and others in light of the current situation.
Are there hand sanitiser stations at HIA?
Hand sanitisers are provided throughout the airport. You also have access to hand sanitisers and other hygiene-related equipment at essential stores like the airport pharmacy and WH Smith.
You may wish to alter your existing travel plans in light of COVID-19 (coronavirus). Whether you have booked or are planning to book for travel up to 31 December 2020, Qatar Airways provides the following commercial policy in order to offer flexibility to the customers.
How long I can hold on to my ticket?
Keep your ticket and use it when you are ready with the extended ticket validity, now valid for 2 years from the date of ticket issuance for greater flexibility. You can call any of Qatar Airways offices or contact centres to extend your ticket validity.
Is there any unlimited change option?
You can change your travel date or destination free of charge, as often as you need, for travel until 31 December 2020. You can change your origin to another city within the same country or any other destination that Qatar Airways fly to within a 5,000-mile radius of your original destination. You can call any of Qatar Airway's offices or contact centres to rebook.
Can I swap for Qmiles?
Swap your ticket for Qmiles and redeem them towards reward flights, extra baggage or cabin upgrades when the time is right. For every 1 USD, you will earn 100 Qmiles that are valid for at least three years, so you can have the flexibility to choose how, when, and for whom to redeem them. If you are not a member, you can join before you submit your request. Click here to submit a request.
Can I exchange for future travel?
You can exchange your ticket for a future travel voucher with 10% additional value. Vouchers are now valid for two years from the date of voucher issuance. Click here to request a voucher!
Can I get a refund for my ticket?
If your flight gets canceled, Qatar Airways we will refund your ticket to the original form of payment.
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