“In fact, its capacity on opening day will be 30mn annual passengers, which is more than the initial plan. Initial capacity was expanded to accommodate the increased transit growth in Qatar over the course of the past decade,” he said.

“The launch of the new airport represents the fulfillment of the longstanding vision of HH the Father Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, which was brought to fruition by HH the Emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani,” said al-Noaimi.

“HIA will be a source of pride and joy for all people of Qatar for many decades to come. It will deliver a memorable experience to all passengers that will travel through its gates; an experience that reflects Qatar’s status and importance on the world travel and tourism map.”

Qatar Airways chief executive officer Akbar al-Baker said: “It is a historic moment, not only in the history of our airline, but for Qatar, to see this Qatar Airways VIP flight touch down at the newly Hamad International Airport.

“Today’s highly anticipated opening of the new airport signifies to the world that Doha is now ready to open its doors for passengers to experience an airport that transforms the travel experience, and it is with much excitement that we await the move of all Qatar Airways flights to this new facility on May 27.”

Hamad International Airport is the world’s latest global gateway and will raise the bar on passenger expectations, thanks to its state-of-the-art facilities and passenger focused design.

Designed to accommodate 30mn passengers annually, rising to 50mn upon full completion, the airport covers an area of 29sq km and is 60% built on land reclaimed from the Gulf.