Doha, QATAR – With the summer holiday rush set to begin, Doha International Airport is reinforcing a number of measures aimed at helping passengers make their journey as smooth as possible.

To avoid unnecessary delays, passengers are advised to adhere to a number of strict guidelines relating to airport access, baggage and check-in.

Only travelling passengers will be allowed access into the departures terminal to avoid congestion in the check-in hall.

In line with international guidelines, no individual piece of checked baggage exceeding 32kg will be accepted. Passengers must ensure each item of checked baggage is kept below 32kg before arriving at the airport, otherwise they will be asked to repack them or items will not be accepted.

All checked baggage must be screened through X-ray machines at the entry point to the departures terminal before passengers proceed to the check-in area.

Individual pieces of hand baggage must not exceed 7kg and kept within the 55cm x 38cm x 20cm dimension guidelines. Any liquids, gels or aerosols being carried in hand baggage must be in bottles of no more than 100ml each, otherwise these will be confiscated at the security check point.

Passengers are also advised to seal these items in transparent plastic bags measuring no more than 20cm x 20cm before placing them in their hand baggage.

Doha International Airport Chief Executive Officer Akbar Al Baker said the measures were being reinforced for safety and security reasons, and in the interests of all passengers.

“We are entering the busy summer holiday season and it is important for travellers to be responsible and understanding of the procedures in place to make their travel experience as safe and comfortable as possible from the moment they arrive at the airport,” said Al Baker.

“We urge passengers travelling out of Doha International Airport to adhere to the strict guidelines to avoid unnecessary congestion and delays. Overweight baggage is a safety concern for our baggage handlers, hence the importance for all passengers to keep within the controlled limitations.

“Travelling can be a stressful experience, but we want to ensure it is as smooth as possible and hassle free for all passengers flying on any airline in and out of Doha International Airport.”

Passengers are also strongly advised to arrive at the airport well in advance of their flight departure time. Check-in counters close 60 minutes prior to flight departures.

Added Al Baker: “And to avoid any further delays, passengers must have valid travel documents comprising of ticket, passport and visas to their final destination, where necessary.”

More than 14 million passengers currently fly through Doha International Airport each year, with over 30 airlines operating in and out of the airport.