HIA further enhances China-Qatar connectivity with inauguration of Shenzhen Airlines

HIA COO Hamad Ali al-Khater, Chinese ambassador Cao Xiaolin, Shenzhen Airlines board member and vice president Li Chuanwei, and other distinguished guests from Qatar and China during a welcome ceremony hosted by Hamad International Airport.

Hamad International Airport (HIA) has announced the expansion of its connectivity to China with the launch of direct flights to Shenzhen, operated by Shenzhen Airlines.

The new route marks the airport’s ninth destination in China and Shenzhen Airlines’ first destination in the Middle East. From October 29, Shenzhen Airlines operates the new Doha-Shenzhen route three times a week, with flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

The service is operated using Shenzhen Airlines’ Airbus A330-300, offering a total of 300 seats across the business, premium economy, and economy classes. The aircraft features 16 lie-flat business class seats, 23 premium economy seats, and 261 economy class seats.

Following the Shenzhen aircraft’s touchdown at HIA, a ceremony was hosted by the airport to commemorate the launch of the new route. HIA COO Hamad Ali al-Khater welcomed Chinese ambassador Cao Xiaolin, Shenzhen Airlines board member and vice president Li Chuanwei, and other distinguished guests from Qatar and China. The ceremony featured a symbolic ribbon-cutting and exchange of gifts, solidifying the strong partnership between the two nations.

Al-Khater said: “As Shenzhen Airlines commences operations on the new Doha-Shenzhen route, marking its first destination in the Middle East, it not only strengthens Qatar’s connectivity with China but also provides passengers with greater travel options and contributes to economic growth.

“Our traffic performance between Qatar and China has shown remarkable growth, increasing by almost 100% last year, reflecting the strong demand for travel between our nations. We look forward to a long and successful partnership with Shenzhen Airlines and are committed to providing the highest level of service and support.”

Established in 1992, Shenzhen Airlines operates a fleet of over 200 aircraft, connecting major domestic cities in China with key international destinations across East Asia, Southeast Asia, and Europe.

As a member of the Star Alliance since 2012, Shenzhen Airlines has continuously expanded its global network, with the Doha service representing a significant step in linking China to more destinations worldwide.

Shenzhen, often referred to as “China’s Silicon Valley”, is a global hub for technology, international trade, and finance, housing world-class companies, such as Huawei, Tencent, and DJI. Its strategic location in Guangdong Province, across from Hong Kong, positions it as a critical centre for economic and technological growth.

The new Doha-Shenzhen route will enhance collaboration between the two cities, promote stronger business ties, and contribute to increased economic activity in both regions.

Since its inauguration in 2014, HIA has emerged as a leading global aviation hub, continuously expanding and enhancing its network. Recent partnerships reflect Qatar’s commitment to strengthening its tourism offerings, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030.

HIA’s innovative air service development strategy has been pivotal in attracting numerous airlines and establishing seamless routes, reinforcing the airport’s position as a critical gateway for global connectivity.