Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha, Qatar, has withdrawn from all external exhibitions, conferences, industry events, and awards programs due to ongoing regional conflict. The decision, announced in a statement on March 17, 2026, specifically includes the Skytrax World Airport Awards 2026 and the Passenger Terminal Expo 2026 in London.
HIA emphasized that “the safety and wellbeing of our passengers, our staff, and their families is, and remains, our absolute priority.” The airport expressed gratitude to aviation partners and stakeholders for their continued support.
This move comes amid heightened regional tensions, with Qatar’s Ministry of Defense reporting that the country was targeted by 14 ballistic missiles and drones launched from Iran. Qatar’s armed forces intercepted a missile attack, and civil defense handled a minor fire from falling debris. An advisor to the Prime Minister stated that stopping Iranian attacks requires a clear decision rather than investigative committees.
HIA, a key hub managed by Qatar Airways Group, routinely participates in major aviation forums but has now prioritized operational security. The withdrawal affects global industry gatherings, signaling caution in the aviation sector as conflicts disrupt normal activities. Bank branches in malls continue operating normally, per the Ministry of Interior, but aviation events face indefinite postponement from HIA’s side.
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