Connecting Continents: Exploring Freight Services in Qatar

30/10/2025

With 80% of the world's population accessible within a six hour flight from its capital, Qatar has become a major hub for freight services that help support international trade for businesses across numerous industries.

Its location near key global markets makes it an ideal transshipment and distribution centre. This strategic position enables efficient trade between the Middle East, Asia, Americas, Europe, and Africa, making Qatar an attractive hub for businesses expanding their supply chains.

Qatar has also continued to invest in its infrastructure to create a strong foundation that can support further growth and development as a key player in international shipping operations.

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Qatar's Infrastructure and Facilities Unveiled

Under the instruction of the Ministry of Transport, Qatar has seen rapid expansion in its ports sector along with the enhancement of its logistics capabilities and the optimization of the existing infrastructure to support Qatar National Vision 2030.

This ultra-modern port operates under the highest standards of safety and security, featuring a uniquely designed Port Control Tower standing at 110 meters tall, a customs inspection area for rapid cargo clearance (5,600 containers per day), a ship inspection platform, and multiple maritime facilities.

In alignment with Qatar’s major steps toward increasing its non-petroleum exports and building manufacturing industries, a free zone has been established adjacent to Hamad Port.

With the port hitting significant milestones regionally and internationally in a relatively short period of time, further plans for the Port of Hamad include developing and expanding regional transport systems to help support internal cargo shipping. The port will also be connected to the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) via road and ocean networks to form a regional transshipment hub.

Did you know?

In the latest global reports Qatar Ports accounted for 23% of the MENA region's cargo.

Other Ports in Qatar

Apart from Hamad Port, there are also two industrial ports: Mesaieed and Raslaffan.

Mesaieed is a shipper-owned facility exclusively for petrochemical and aluminium exports.

Raslaffan, a general cargo industrial port, will soon be operational with gantries to facilitate new petrochemical exports scheduled to start by early 2027.

Other ports, such as Doha Port, serve as a cruise terminal, while Ruwais Port functions as a barge port.

Keeping Cargo Moving: Qatar Freight Services

Aside from the Port of Hamad which has the capacity to handle 7 million tonnes of general freight, Qatar’s strategic location between the East and West offers excellent maritime connectivity. This is further optimized by the country’s investment in air and land transportation as well as ocean services.

Did you know?

Qatar Airways Cargo processed 20.5 million tonnes of cargo between 2014 and 2024.

Air Freight Infrastructure

Home to Skytrax’s 2024 “World’s Best Airline” and “World’s Best Airport”, Qatar’s air freight services further enhance its reputation as a global logistics hub.

Currently being expanded to include a new terminal, in the decade it’s been open, the Hamad International Airport has transported 325.1 million passengers and now connects 45 airlines with over 200 destinations.

Efficient Land and Logistics Integration

In addition to its air freight services, Qatar’s road services help to enhance connectivity around the capital and beyond.

The strength of Qatar’s intermodal logistics means that as a business looking to expand your global trading options, you’ll be able to enhance your operations by reducing transit times and costs, whilst delivering a service that sets you apart from the competition

Did you know?

The Lusail Bus Depot holds the Guiness World Record as the largest e-bus depot with its capacity to house 478 electric buses.

Key Industries Driving Freight Demand

Qatar’s prominence within global trade and the country's economic growth has been driven by a diverse range of industries all relying on freight services.

Key commodities include:

Mineral fuels, oils, and distillation products, worth $84.60 billion*
Plastics which totalled $2.76 billion
Fertilizers accounted for $1.85 billion
Aluminium which was worth $1.79B

In terms of imports, industries such as construction manufacturing, retail, and agriculture are all fuelling freight demand. Primary import commodities include:

• Machinery worth $6.09 billion
• Electrical equipment totalling $2.80 billion worth of imports
• Vehicles and transport Equipment worth $1.90 billion
• Iron or Steel accounting for $1.85 billion worth of imports
• Aircraft imports worth $1.32 billion

Did you know? In 2023, Qatar's exports were valued at around $97 billion, while imports totalled around $31 billion, resulting in a positive trade balance of $66 billion for the country’s import-export market.

*export figures are for 2023

Best Practices for Importing and Exporting in Qatar

To ensure smooth and efficient shipping operations and leverage Qatar’s freight services, as a business there are certain best practices you can follow to ensure compliance and optimize your supply chain effectively.

To avoid refusal at Qatari ports, ensure all imported cargo is palletized on EUR-standard wooden pallets.
Ensure you have all essential documentation including the Certificate of Origin and a Commercial Invoice at the loading port.
Make sure you are aware of restrictions on certain cargo to ensure you remain compliant with customs guidelines.
Understand road transportation limits such as Qatar’s 42-ton maximum weight limit for twin-axle trailers.

Ask MSC

At MSC, we are experts in international shipping and logistics, offering our customers a range of bespoke shipping solutions designed to meet the specific needs of their cargo. Whether you’re importing or exporting from Qatar, or want to take advantage of its strategic location to enhance your global supply chain, our team will work with you to offer solutions that support your overall business goals.