Benazir Bhutto International Airport, also known as Islamabad International Airport, serves Pakistan’s capital and its twin city of Rawalpindi in the Punjab. It’s a key air transport hub for this region of Asia, and is particularly important for business travellers working or visiting Islamabad.
If you are seeking adventure, dreaming of immersing yourself in culture and art or longing to visit your family and friends, Qatar has something for everyone. Now is the perfect time to plan your next holiday and discover an authentic Arabian treasure in the heart of the Gulf.
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Flying from Islamabad
Benazir Bhutto International Airport, also known as Islamabad International Airport, serves Pakistan’s capital and its twin city of Rawalpindi in the Punjab. It’s a key air transport hub for this region of Asia, and is particularly important for business travellers working or visiting Islamabad.
Recent upgrades have seen the airport expand to cope with growing demand, and travellers flying from Islamabad with Qatar Airways will discover an extremely efficient, modern airport where the passenger experience is paramount.
Transportation and parking
Drivers can take the Kashmir Highway and then Islamabad Highway southbound. This leads straight on to the Airport link road, which is clearly signposted. There are some buses, but they do tend to be very crowded, which is not ideal for passengers with young children or large amounts of luggage.
The best option is to book a taxi to the airport. Metro Radio Cab, Yellow Cab and Cab Radio Services all run regularly between the airport and the city centre, and the journey time (depending on traffic conditions) takes approximately 30 minutes.
The new terminal development has expanded the parking facilities at the airport, providing capacity for up to 2,000 vehicles. Both short and long-term parking options are available.
Arriving at the airport
Passengers flying from Islamabad with Qatar Airways depart from the main terminal’s Departures area. With 15 gates and 90 check-in counters, the process is relatively smooth. Buses take passengers to the aircraft, and the airport can now accommodate the larger Airbus 380.
Be aware, though, that security at Islamabad International Airport is exceptionally tight, so allow at least two hours for check-in and customs clearance before your flight is due to board.
Facilities and amenities
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and a small business centre in the main building provides photocopying and faxing services. The CIP lounge, which is open to all First and Business Class customers, also provides some business facilities and work spaces. A large food court provides everything from fast food and snacks to more substantial meals, including authentic local cuisine and international dishes.
A selection of retailers and Duty Free shops sell luxury goods, travel essentials, books and magazines, and there are also ATMs and banking facilities throughout the airport.
Arriving in Doha
Book a flight to Doha with Qatar Airways and fly to our hub, Hamad International Airport.
Doha is one of the fastest-growing cities in the Arabian Gulf, where modern innovation meets traditional culture. It is home to an abundance of captivating attractions including mosques, museums, shopping malls and more.
Marked by its crescent-shaped bay, Doha was originally a collection of fishing and pearl diving villages. Today, it boasts a skyline of architectural marvels seen nowhere else in the world.
Tourist attractions
Discover the story of Qatar at Msheireb Enrichment Centre – a barge docked at the Doha Corniche nearby the Sheraton Hotel. It features unique displays that chart the country’s fascinating history and its ongoing plans to build a bright future.
Qatar is also brimming with creative masterpieces, some of which you will find at the Mathaf Arab Museum of Modern Art. Meander through its hallways to admire a collection of contemporary works from across the Arab world.
Continue exploring Middle Eastern treasures when stopping by Souq Waqif – a charming market at the heart of Doha. Here, you can capture memories at the ancient Al Koot Fort, constructed in 1880.
To bask in panoramic views of the Corniche and beyond, make your way to The Clock Tower, located next to the Grand Mosque. Don’t forget to visit Doha Heritage Village in Al Rumeilia Park, to experience Arabian life in the past.
Travel considerations
Qatar Airways flights to Doha land at Hamad International Airport. You may need a visa depending on your country of origin, length of stay and purpose of travel. Before you fly, check that you comply with all Qatar’s travel and entry requirements.
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