Monday, 28 July 2025
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What to Do When You've Lost Something at Hamad International Airport

From Lost to Found: A Guide to Recovering Your Items
Published: Monday, April 21, 2025
What to Do When You've Lost Something at Hamad International Airport

Thank you for choosing to travel through Hamad International Airport (HIA)! We understand how distressing it can be to misplace personal belongings, and our dedicated Customer Service Team is committed to helping you recover any lost items. The Lost Property Office is your go-to resource for registering lost belongings, addressing inquiries, and facilitating the retrieval of items that may have been lost within the Passenger Terminal Complex.

Items Lost on Flights

If you believe you’ve left an item on a Qatar Airways flight, please take the following steps:

  • For Qatar Airways Flights: Click the link provided on our website for quick assistance. Alternatively, you can send an email detailing your situation to Click here. Be sure to include your flight number, date of travel, and a description of the lost item to expedite the process.

  • For Other Airlines: If your item was lost on a flight operated by another airline, please contact Qatar Aviation Services (QAS) Lost and Found by emailing [email protected]. They will guide you through the necessary steps to locate your belongings.

Items Lost Inside the Passenger Terminal

For items misplaced within the terminal, we recommend the following:

  • In-Person Assistance: Visit the nearest HIA Information Desk where our friendly staff can provide immediate help and guidance.

  • Outside the Airport: If you are currently off airport premises, you can reach out directly to the HIA Lost Property Office by clicking on the 'Contact Us' link on our website or by emailing Click here. When you do, please provide a comprehensive description of the lost item, which should include:

    1. Brand/Model and Color: This helps us identify the item more accurately.
    2. Flight Number and Date: Include the specific flight you were on when the item was lost.
    3. Time and Location: Mention the approximate time and specific area (like a terminal zone or specific gate) where the item was last seen.
    4. Photographic Evidence: If possible, attach a photo of the item to assist our staff in identifying it swiftly.

Important Information

Hamad International Airport is authorized to assist with inquiries regarding items lost within the airport's premises. Our Lost Property Office operates with specific policies regarding the handling of lost items:

  • Retention Period: Items submitted to the Lost Property Office will be retained for up to 30 days. This duration varies based on the category of the item.

  • Post-Retention Policy: After the retention period, unclaimed items may be donated to charitable organizations. Unfortunately, these items will not be available for retrieval after being donated.

  • Liability Disclaimer: The airport does not accept liability for any items lost or left behind within its premises. We encourage all travelers to keep personal belongings secure and to report any lost items promptly.

Retention Policies by Item Category

Direct Disposal:

    • Items that fall under this category will be disposed of immediately and include excess baggage, perishables, and dangerous goods.

7-Day Policy:

    • This includes items like neck pillows, water tumblers, unbranded clothing, caps, toys, umbrellas, walking sticks, wheelchairs, and Zamzam water. These items will only be held for a week before being discarded or donated.

30-Day Policy:

    • Precious Metals and Gems: Items such as gold, silver, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds.
    • Transaction Cards and Cash: This includes credit and debit cards and currency (excluding loose petty cash).
    • Official Documents: Items like IDs, passports, driving licenses, and other important documents.
    • Electronic Items: Laptops, smartphones, tablets, headsets, smartwatches, power banks, SIM cards, card adapters, and world adapters fall into this category.
    • Miscellaneous: Luxury or branded clothing items are also retained for 30 days.

Additional Tips 

  • Keep Important Items Together: Use a designated pouch or bag for crucial items like passports, wallets, and electronics to minimize the risk of losing them.

  • Label Your Belongings: Attach tags or labels with your contact information to bags and valuable items, making it easier for staff to return them if found.

  • Use Tracking Devices: Consider using Bluetooth trackers for high-value items like luggage and electronics, so you can locate them easily.

  • Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to where you place your belongings, especially in busy areas like lounges, cafes, and boarding gates.

  • Review Security Footage: If you lose something near a security checkpoint, request to review footage; staff may assist in identifying where the item was left.

  • Know Where to Go: Familiarize yourself with the layout of the airport and the locations of information desks and the Lost Property Office.

  • Keep Digital Copies: Maintain digital copies of important documents (like your passport and IDs) on your phone or in a secure cloud service for easy access.

  • Travel Insurance: Consider getting travel insurance that covers lost belongings, providing peace of mind during your travels.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. The goal of Hamad International Airport is to help you recover your lost items as efficiently as possible. Your continued trust in Hamad International Airport is greatly appreciated!

Emirates Group Launches Global Drive to Hire 17,300, Fueling Aviation's Future

Published: Friday, July 25, 2025
Emirates Group Launches Global Drive to Hire 17,300, Fueling Aviation's Future

On 22 July 2025, Dubai, UAE, the Emirates Group launched an extensive global talent acquisition campaign aimed at recruiting 17,300 professionals during the current financial year. This hiring goal is symbolic, matching the population size of a mid-size town or the seating capacity of 58 Airbus A350 aircraft. The recruitment drive is part of the Group’s ongoing expansion strategy, reinforcing its industry-leading position.

The available opportunities span across 350 different roles across Emirates and dnata, the two flagship businesses under the Group. Emirates, recognized as the world’s most profitable and largest international airline, along with dnata, a global leader in air and travel services, are looking to fill positions that include cabin crew, pilots, engineers, commercial and sales teams, customer service, ground handling, catering, IT, human resources, and finance. Notably, dnata alone seeks over 4,000 specialists in cargo, catering, and ground handling operations.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group, emphasized that this ambitious recruitment is aligned with Dubai’s Economic Agenda D33 and the Group’s growth trajectory. He expressed that the goal is to attract world-class talent capable of driving innovation, excellence, and the future transformation of the aviation industry. He views this initiative as an opportunity for skilled professionals to become integral to the Group’s ongoing success and expansion.

To reach potential candidates globally, the Emirates Group will hold over 2,100 open days and various talent acquisition events across 150 cities throughout the year. These events will provide a chance for prospective pilots, IT professionals, engineers, and cabin crew members to engage directly with recruitment teams and long-serving Emirates employees sharing their experiences. In addition to international outreach, Dubai-based events will focus on involving UAE national students and graduates, supporting national workforce development.

Since 2022, the Emirates Group has recruited more than 41,000 professionals, with nearly 27,000 in operational roles, contributing to the current workforce size of approximately 121,000 employees. The Group continues to be a magnet for talent around the world due to its strong brand reputation, people-centric policies, tax-free remuneration, comprehensive benefits, and esteemed training and career development programs.

In the past financial year alone, the Group received in excess of 3.7 million job applications, illustrating its global appeal. Candidates are drawn to Dubai not only for professional opportunities but also for the city’s safety, economic stability, advanced technological infrastructure, forward-looking policies, and vibrant lifestyle.

For those residing in Dubai and working for the Emirates Group, benefits are extensive, including eligibility for profit sharing, comprehensive medical and life insurance coverage, a wide array of travel benefits encompassing annual and service-related leave tickets, concessional rates for family and friends, discounted cargo rates, and membership privileges unlocking reductions at hundreds of retail, hospitality, and lifestyle destinations.

Candidates interested in joining the Emirates Group can explore available positions and upcoming recruitment events worldwide by visiting the Group’s official careers portal. This recruitment drive showcases the Emirates Group’s unwavering commitment to growth, innovation, and maintaining its status as a global employer of choice, while welcoming talented professionals prepared to contribute to shaping the future of aviation.

India rolls out e-visa for Kuwait from July 14 — 5-year tourist visas now offered

Published: Tuesday, July 15, 2025
India rolls out e-visa for Kuwait from July 14 — 5-year tourist visas now offered

In a landmark move to simplify travel and enhance bilateral relations, Kuwaiti citizens can now apply for Indian e-visas entirely online beginning Monday, July 14, 2025. The announcement was made by Dr. Adarsh Swaika, India’s Ambassador to Kuwait, who described the launch as a “qualitative shift” in India-Kuwait engagement.

The new digital platform covers five visa categories: tourism, business, medical, conference, and AYUSH (alternative medicine including yoga and Ayurveda). Applicants no longer need to visit visa centers; all steps including application submission, document upload, and payment are completed online.

Key features of the e-visa system include:

Tourist visas valid for up to five years at a fee of $80
Other visa fees range from $40 to $80 depending on type and duration
Biometric data collection upon arrival at Indian airports
Typical processing time of three to four days, with minor technical issues possible during rollout

Ambassador Swaika emphasized that this initiative responds to a long-standing request from Kuwaiti citizens and reflects the deep historic and cultural ties between the two nations. The move also aligns with India’s broader efforts to modernize consular services and strengthen diplomatic and people-to-people connections in the Gulf region.

The e-visa allows for a variety of short-term activities such as tourism, business meetings, medical treatment (including under Indian traditional medicine systems), attending conferences, and participation in yoga or Ayurveda programs.

Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and possess a return or onward ticket. The Indian Consulate in Kuwait will continue to accept paper visa applications for those who prefer traditional processing.

This digital visa rollout is expected to boost travel, trade, and cultural exchange between India and Kuwait, supporting the growing interest among Kuwaitis in Indian tourism, healthcare, and business opportunities.
For more information and to apply, Kuwaiti citizens can access the official Indian e-visa portal, which provides guidance in both English and Arabic.

This development marks a significant step forward in facilitating seamless cross-border travel and enhancing the longstanding friendship between India and Kuwait.

UAE denies lifetime Golden Visa for Indians, Bangladeshis; rejects ₹23 lakh claim

Published: Thursday, July 10, 2025
UAE denies lifetime Golden Visa for Indians, Bangladeshis; rejects ₹23 lakh claim

The United Arab Emirates has officially denied rumours of a lifetime Golden Visa offer for Indians and certain other nationalities, following widespread reports and social media buzz suggesting otherwise. The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Port Security (ICP) of Abu Dhabi clarified that no lifetime Golden Visa scheme exists, and all applications are processed strictly through official government channels within the UAE.

The ICP emphasized that the eligibility categories, conditions, and regulations for the Golden Visa are clearly defined by UAE laws and ministerial decisions, and no internal or external consultancy or commercial entity is authorized to handle or facilitate visa applications. This statement was issued in response to misleading reports claiming that Indians and Bangladeshis could obtain a lifetime Golden Visa for a fee of approximately ₹23 lakh (AED 100,000) through private consultancies, notably the Dubai-based Rayad Group, which later apologized for the confusion caused.

The authority warned the public against falling prey to fraudulent schemes promising simplified or guaranteed visa approvals, noting that such claims have no legal basis and were made without coordination with UAE authorities. The ICP also announced that legal action will be taken against entities spreading false information and illegally collecting money from hopeful applicants.

Applicants seeking accurate and up-to-date information on the UAE Golden Visa program are urged to rely solely on official sources, such as the ICP’s website and smart application platforms. The Golden Visa process remains transparent and regulated, with no shortcuts or lifetime residency offers outside the established legal framework.

This clarification comes amid growing enthusiasm among Indian nationals for UAE residency options, but the ICP’s firm denial aims to curb misinformation and protect applicants from exploitation.

Old Muscat Airport to Be Transformed into Vibrant Leisure and Entertainment Hub

Published: Thursday, July 03, 2025
Old Muscat Airport to Be Transformed into Vibrant Leisure and Entertainment Hub

Authorities in Oman have unveiled detailed plans to transform the old Muscat airport terminal, which spans a 50,000 square meter site, into a major leisure and commercial destination. The redevelopment will follow a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, with interested developers invited to submit Expressions of Interest by July 9, 2024.

Overseeing the project is Oman Airports Management Company, part of the Oman Investment Authority, which aims to create an upscale, mixed-use hub that integrates retail outlets, restaurants, business centers, and multi-level parking, alongside a proposed aviation museum to celebrate Oman's aviation history.

The site’s prime location at the intersection of Sultan Qaboos Highway and Muscat Expressway ensures excellent connectivity to major city landmarks, including the Oman Convention & Exhibition Center, luxury hotels, and shopping malls. The Greater Muscat Master Plan also anticipates a future metro station adjacent to the site, which is expected to drive significant visitor traffic and commercial interest.

The old terminal, which opened in 1973 and served as Oman’s main airport until 2018, will be revitalized to honor its historical significance while providing modern amenities. The aviation-themed redevelopment will include an aviation museum, shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues, aiming to attract both local residents and tourists.

The project is designed to enhance Muscat’s urban landscape and contribute to the city’s economic development by drawing high-end tenants, investors, and real estate developers.

The transformation is also aligned with Oman’s National Aviation Strategy 2030, which seeks to attract $3.6 billion in airport city investments and open the sector to private and international investors. The redevelopment emphasizes sustainability by repurposing the existing terminal structure, reducing environmental impact compared to new construction.

The selection process for the developer will continue through the summer, with site visits already scheduled for interested bidders. Once completed, the new leisure hub is expected to become a landmark destination, reflecting both Oman's aviation legacy and its ambitions for future growth

Paris Air Show 2025

Europe’s Best Airline for 2025: Turkish Airlines Takes the Crown

Turkish Airlines Named Europe’s Best Airline for 2025, Outperforming Major Competitors in Service, Comfort, and Passenger Satisfaction
Published: Monday, June 23, 2025
Europe’s Best Airline for 2025: Turkish Airlines Takes the Crown

Turkish Airlines has been officially crowned “Best Airline in Europe” for the tenth time at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, held at the Air and Space Museum in Paris on June 17. This milestone achievement was determined by the votes of millions of passengers from over 100 nationalities, who participated in the world’s largest airline satisfaction survey between September 2024 and May 2025.

The Turkish flag carrier’s consistent excellence was further highlighted by a sweep of eight major awards, including “World’s Best Business Class Onboard Catering,” “Best Airline in Southern Europe,” “Best Economy Class in Europe,” and “Best Economy Class Onboard Catering in Europe,” underscoring its dominance in both premium and economy travel markets.

Turkish Airlines’ reputation for connecting more countries than any other airline remains unmatched, supported by a rapidly expanding fleet that is expected to reach approximately 530 aircraft by the end of 2025. The airline carried 85.2 million passengers in 2024, with strong growth continuing into 2025, as January alone saw 6.8 million travelers—a rise of over 8% from the previous year.

This growth is fueled by ongoing investments in new, fuel-efficient aircraft such as Airbus A321neos and A350s, and by a robust order book of more than 270 aircraft, positioning Istanbul as a major global aviation hub.

Service innovation is another pillar of Turkish Airlines’ success. By the end of 2025, the airline plans to offer all passengers free, unlimited, high-speed in-flight connectivity, retrofitting its entire fleet with the latest technology in partnership with leading local and international suppliers. A recent Memorandum of Understanding with TCI Aircraft Interiors and Turksat highlights Turkish Airlines’ commitment to supporting Turkish innovation in aviation technology.

Sustainability also features prominently in the airline’s agenda. The “Tomorrow On-Board” initiative, launched in 2024, sets out a comprehensive framework for sustainable operations, including the use of eco-friendly inflight products and transparent communication of environmental goals. This program aims to inspire both passengers and investors, reinforcing Turkish Airlines’ pledge to reduce its environmental impact and promote a better future for the industry.

Globally, Turkish Airlines’ recognition comes in a competitive landscape, with Qatar Airways taking the title of “World’s Best Airline,” followed by Singapore Airlines and Cathay Pacific.

Despite this, Turkish Airlines’ continued accolades in Europe and its strong operational performance underscore its status as a leader in global aviation, renowned for world-class service, innovative passenger experiences, and a commitment to sustainability