AIRPORT

DOH

WORLD RANK

#100

Doha

Hamad International Airport

OTHH

370

Flights/Day

21:58

Local Time

Qatar

Timezone

13ft

Elevation

Current Weather

Current Conditions

OTHH

VFR

35°C

Clear • 11kt • 1006.00"

Observed: 18:00 UTC

VFR — Visual Flight Rules: Clear conditions, no weather delays expected.

Cloud Forecast

12k 8k 4k 0

21:00

CLR

Few (1-2 oktas) Scattered (3-4) Broken (5-7) Overcast (8) | CLR = Clear 25k = 25,000 ft ceiling

FM = From (abrupt change) BECMG = Becoming (gradual) TEMPO = Temporary PROB = Probability %

TAF valid until 03:00 local time

About Hamad International Airport

Doha's Gulf location brings Shamal dust storms and extreme summer heat. Generally smooth flying outside active weather events.

Is Doha Hamad Airport turbulent?

Doha faces the same Shamal wind and sandstorm challenges as Dubai. Qatar experienced its third sandstorm in two weeks in April 2025, reducing visibility to under 2km and causing flight diversions including a Qatar Airways flight rerouted to Dubai. Wind shear during dust events makes landings potentially dangerous, prompting holding patterns or diversions.

Third sandstorm in two weeks struck in April 2025
Qatar Airways flight diverted to Dubai during dust event
Wind shear accompanies major sandstorms

What is the Shamal wind?

The Shamal is a northwesterly wind that blows across the Persian Gulf, lifting sand from Iraq and Kuwait. High pressure systems and strong winds create blowing dust that can reduce visibility below 2km and last for multiple days. Qatar's flat, desert terrain offers no protection from these regional weather events.

When is the best time to fly through Doha?

November through March offers cooler temperatures and reduced sandstorm frequency. Summer (June-August) brings both extreme heat and peak Shamal activity. Spring (March-May) carries the highest dust storm risk. Qatar's modern airport infrastructure minimizes disruptions, but building connection time during sandstorm-prone seasons is wise.

Is turbulence at Doha dangerous?

No. Modern aircraft are designed to withstand forces far stronger than turbulence. While bumps can feel uncomfortable, they do not pose a safety risk. Pilots actively avoid rough air whenever possible. Learn more about turbulence

Best seats to reduce turbulence when flying from Doha?

Seats near the wings feel the least movement because they are closest to the aircraft's center of gravity. Seats at the back of the aircraft feel turbulence more strongly. Learn more about seat selection

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