Qatar Airways Expands Global Network in 2026 with New Flights to Hail, Singapore, Toronto, Tashkent, AlUla, Yanbu, Cape Town, Lisbon, and Red Sea International

Published on December 27, 2025

As the aviation industry prepares for a post-pandemic surge, Doha, home to Hamad International Airport (DOH), is set to become even more connected to the world in 2026. Qatar Airways, the flag carrier of Qatar, is leading the way by launching new routes, increasing flight frequencies, and expanding its global network. This article explores the new flights scheduled to start from Doha in 2026, as well as the expanded services that will enhance connectivity to key international destinations.

Doha’s Expanding Role as a Global Hub

Hamad International Airport has long been a major hub for travelers connecting the East and West. In 2026, Doha will see even more international routes opening up, reflecting the growing demand for travel to and from this bustling city. With Qatar Airways serving as the core carrier, Doha is strengthening its position as one of the most dynamic aviation hubs worldwide.

New Route Launches

Doha ↔ Hail (Saudi Arabia): One of the most anticipated new routes from Doha in 2026 is the launch of flights to Hail, a growing city in Saudi Arabia. Starting 5th January 2026, Qatar Airways will begin operating three weekly flights on this route, making it easier for both business and leisure travelers to access the region. This new connection marks Qatar Airways’ expansion into less-served Saudi cities, building on its already extensive network in Saudi Arabia. As Saudi Arabia continues to diversify its economy, Hail will play a crucial role, and Qatar Airways’ new service will make it easier for travelers to connect through Doha.

Doha ↔ Singapore (Qatar Airways A380): Another significant update for 2026 is Qatar Airways’ decision to introduce the Airbus A380 aircraft on its Singapore route starting 12th January 2026. While Singapore is not a new destination for Qatar Airways, this move will bring more capacity to the route. The A380—known for its impressive size and luxury amenities—will provide travelers with a more comfortable and spacious flying experience. The additional seat capacity reflects the growing demand for travel between Doha and Singapore, two key hubs in the global travel network.

Route Expansions and Frequency Increases

In addition to new routes, Qatar Airways will also expand its service to Saudi Arabia, a market that continues to grow in importance for the airline.

Doha ↔ Jeddah (JED) and Riyadh (RUH): Starting in early 2026, Qatar Airways will increase the frequency of its flights between Doha and Jeddah, as well as between Doha and Riyadh. With these routes growing in popularity due to the increasing demand for business and tourism in Saudi Arabia, Qatar Airways will offer seven daily flights between Doha and both cities. This increase in frequency ensures that passengers can easily travel between these important hubs in the Middle East and Qatar.

Doha ↔ Red Sea International (Saudi Arabia): Another interesting expansion is Qatar Airways’ route to the Red Sea International Airport in Saudi Arabia. This route, initially launched in late 2025, will continue into 2026 with three weekly non-stop services. The growing tourism market in Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea region is driving this expansion, and Qatar Airways is capitalizing on this with its direct flights from Doha.

More Destinations and Strategic Partnerships

Qatar Airways is also expanding its global footprint with a variety of new routes that will be launched through codeshare agreements and strategic partnerships with other airlines. This will further enhance Doha’s connectivity to North America, Europe, and Asia in 2026.

Doha ↔ Toronto, Canada: Although not officially confirmed as a direct launch in 2026, Toronto is set to be a new addition to Qatar Airways’ growing roster of North American destinations. Qatar Airways has been looking to increase its footprint in Canada, and a direct flight from Doha to Toronto could make the city even more accessible for travelers connecting through Doha. Travelers from the U.S. will also be able to use Doha as a hub to access Canadian destinations like Toronto.

Doha ↔ Tashkent, Uzbekistan: Central Asia is another region seeing increased attention from Qatar Airways. Starting in 2026, the airline is planning to introduce a direct flight between Doha and Tashkent, Uzbekistan’s capital. This route will provide better connectivity to Central Asia and is part of Qatar Airways’ strategy to tap into emerging markets in Asia.

Doha ↔ AlUla & Yanbu (Saudi Arabia): Saudi Arabia is one of the key markets for Qatar Airways, and in 2026, the airline is launching flights to AlUla and Yanbu, two growing cities in the country. These cities are becoming major cultural and economic hubs, and Qatar Airways will offer a strategic connection through Doha to these destinations.

Doha ↔ Cape Town, South Africa and Lisbon, Portugal: Both Cape Town and Lisbon are expected to be added to Qatar Airways’ network in 2026, following announcements of expanded services. These cities are popular tourist destinations and business hubs, and the addition of these routes further strengthens Doha’s position as a gateway between Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

The Impact of Qatar Airways’ Expansions

As Qatar Airways continues to launch new routes and expand its existing services, Doha’s role as an aviation hub will grow even stronger. The airline’s emphasis on strategic partnerships, codeshare agreements, and fleet expansion (such as the A380) will allow travelers to connect to more destinations around the world.

In addition, the growing demand for travel between the Middle East and other regions—particularly Asia, Europe, and North America—is fueling this growth. Whether it’s for business, tourism, or cultural exchange, Doha is becoming a more accessible and attractive destination for international travelers in 2026.

Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond

Qatar Airways’ aggressive expansion strategy is a clear sign that Doha is positioning itself to become a global aviation leader. With a growing number of new routes, increased frequencies, and a focus on connectivity through strategic airline partnerships, the future of travel through Doha looks bright. As the airline enters 2026, Doha will undoubtedly continue to attract travelers from around the world, solidifying its role as a central hub in the global aviation network.