Qatar Airways Expands Reach with Direct Flights from Doha to Kualanamu International Airport, Medan, Indonesia
In a significant move to bolster its international connectivity, Qatar Airways has announced the commencement of direct flights from Doha, Qatar, to Kualanamu International Airport in Indonesia. The service, which began on January 15, 2024, marks a strategic expansion for the renowned airline, offering travelers increased accessibility between the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
The introduction of three-weekly flights between Doha and Kualanamu International Airport underscores Qatar Airways’ commitment to enhancing global travel options and facilitating seamless connections between key destinations. With this new route, passengers can now enjoy greater convenience and flexibility in planning their journeys, whether for business or leisure purposes.
Qatar Airways, Boeing 787 Dreamliner QR 966 landing on Kualanamu International Airport— Medan, Indonesia
Kualanamu International Airport, located near Medan, the capital city of North Sumatra province in Indonesia, serves as a vital gateway to the region, boasting modern facilities and excellent infrastructure. By adding Kualanamu to its extensive network of destinations, Qatar Airways opens up a host of travel opportunities for passengers seeking to explore Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and vibrant communities.
Why launch a new route to Medan?
The decision to launch direct flights to Kualanamu International Airport reflects Qatar Airways’ proactive approach to meeting evolving passenger demands and preferences. As travel patterns continue to evolve, airlines must adapt by offering diversified routes and enhanced services to cater to the needs of discerning travelers.
Qatar-Indonesia sought to deepen the understanding of Qatar as a hub for arts and culture, tourism, education, and sports while celebrating the unique aspects of Indonesian culture and building sustainable partnerships through more than 50 programs across both countries.
The new route to Medan solidifies the ties between both nations as the Qatar-Indonesia 2023 Year of Culture comes to a close. Source
The introduction of the new route underscores Qatar Airways’ commitment to enhancing global connectivity. It also reflects the airline’s dedication to the Indonesian market. The flight schedule between Doha and Medan will operate three times a week. Passengers on the inaugural flight were treated to a curated Indonesian menu and exclusive giveaways, adding a celebratory touch to the launch.
The city of Medan, known for its cultural diversity, natural beauty, and economic importance, is now more accessible to global travelers. The new route is set to bolster tourism and business ties between Qatar and Indonesia, making it a win-win situation for both nations. Source
The route between Doha and Kualanamu International Airport holds immense potential for both business and leisure travelers alike. Medan, a bustling metropolis situated in close proximity to the airport, serves as a gateway to the diverse attractions of North Sumatra, including the picturesque Lake Toba, the vibrant culinary scene, and the region’s cultural landmarks.
Some of North Sumatra’s diverse attractions include:
The Villages and Waterfalls Near Berastagi
The small town of Berastagi, around two hours from Medan, has a relatively cool climate that is refreshing, particularly if you’ve been sweating around Southeast Asia for weeks. Berastagi is easy to walk around in an hour and is surrounded by villages, waterfalls, and other natural attractions. It’s a great place to visit traditional Karo houses to learn about local culture. Check out Taman Alam Lumbini (Lumbini Natural Park), a Buddhist temple and park almost 4 miles (6 kilometers) east of town.
Explore a Bat Cave at Bukit Lawang
Just 1.2 miles or 2 kilometers from Bukit Lawang, adventurers can follow the trail from the Ecolodge Bukit Lawang hotel to a cavern filled with thousands of bats. Landowners may collect a small fee from visitors checking out the cave, which measures about 0.3 miles or 500 meters long.
Marvel at Maimoon Palace
One of Indonesia’s most gorgeous historic palaces, the two-story and 30-room Istana Maimun or Maimoon Palace in downtown Medan, is the royal house for the Sultanate of Deli. Built in the late 1800s, the palace features Malay, Indian, Islamic, and other influences.
Members of the sultan’s family reside in the back wing. Only the main room, which features the elegant inauguration throne, is open to the public daily, except when special ceremonies take place.
Moreover, the strategic location of Kualanamu International Airport facilitates onward travel to other prominent destinations across Indonesia, fostering greater accessibility and connectivity within the archipelago. Travelers can leverage Qatar Airways’ extensive global network to seamlessly connect to a myriad of destinations beyond Doha, further enriching their travel experiences and widening their horizons.
The introduction of direct flights between Doha and Kualanamu International Airport is poised to stimulate tourism, trade, and economic growth between Qatar and Indonesia. By fostering closer ties between the two nations, Qatar Airways reaffirms its role as a catalyst for international cooperation and exchange, promoting cultural understanding and mutual prosperity.
Here are some of the main cities and areas to visit in Qatar, the Pearl of the Middle East:
Doha
Doha, Qatar’s pulsating heart, graces the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula with its magnetic presence. As the capital city, Doha artfully weaves together a tapestry of cultural traditions, a thriving gastronomic scene, and an awe-inspiring modern skyline that effortlessly captivates the wanderlust of travelers. That traveler could be you!
Images taken from: Qatarwanderer
Al Khor
Al Khor, a coastal city in northern Qatar, will give you an appreciation for the country’s traditional fishing industry and scenic seaside. The town’s bustling port, located in the heart of the city, serves as a major hub for the country’s fishing and pearl industries.
Another must-see destination in Al Khor is the Al Bayt Stadium, one of the main venues used during the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Designed to resemble the traditional tents used by the nomadic Bedouin tribes, the architecture is truly unique for a stadium. In addition to hosting international football (soccer) matches, the stadium serves the community and visitors alike by hosting a range of events throughout the year.
Al Wakrah
Al Wakrah is a charming city with a rich history, evident in the historic buildings and traditional souqs that still thrive there. With its picturesque seaside location, Al Wakrah has become a popular destination for visitors looking for a unique and authentic experience in Qatar. Why not join them?
Images taken from: Qatarwanderer
As Qatar Airways continues to expand its presence across key markets worldwide, passengers can look forward to an unparalleled travel experience characterized by world-class service, exceptional comfort, and unmatched hospitality. The airline’s unwavering commitment to excellence ensures that every journey is a seamless and memorable one, leaving passengers inspired to explore new destinations and create lasting memories.
In conclusion, the launch of direct flights from Doha to Kualanamu International Airport represents a significant milestone for Qatar Airways and underscores its dedication to redefining the future of global aviation. With this alternative route, travelers can embark on a transformative journey of discovery, forging new connections, and embracing the diverse cultures and landscapes that define our world.
Malaysian Tourism
Holders of a Malaysian passport are eligible to obtain a visa upon arrival in Qatar. It has a three-month validity period. For social visits lasting no more than 90 days, Qatari citizens are not required to have a visa in order to enter Malaysia (such as travel, visiting friends and family, going to meetings, seminars, conferences, or business discussions, inspecting factories, auditing companies’ accounts, signing contracts, looking over investment opportunities, establishing a factory or company, taking exams, competing in sports, or participating in student volunteer work). Source
Tourism Malaysia has signed a Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC) with Qatar Airways, with their primary objectives being to extend networking and strengthen strategic cooperation between the two parties.
Malaysia’s tourism industry is working together with Qatar Airways, the world’s leading airline, to boost arrivals via Qatar Airways’ broad network to Malaysia. Through this MOC, the cooperation will aim to further strengthen Malaysia’s appeal as a preferred travel destination among tourist in the Middle East, Europe, and the United States of America. Source
Doha, Qatar – Qatar Airways has announced a partnership with Tourism Malaysia to promote Malaysia as a tourist destination and provide flight offers to tourists from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. Qatar Airways Holidays recently launched limited-time travel packages for travelers from Qatar to plan unforgettable holidays to Kuala Lumpur with incredible savings and exclusive offers. Qatar Airways and Malaysia Airlines announced a code share agreement expansion, which allows passengers to connect to other points in Malaysia, including Johor, Kedah, Langkawi, Penang, Sabah, Sarawak, and more. The bustling cities of Kuala Lumpur and Penang offer a mix of traditional and modern experiences, with world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife. The crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand, the beaches of Langkawi, Tioman, and the Perhentian Islands are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Meanwhile, the tropical island of Borneo offers some of the world’s best diving and snorkeling opportunities. Source
With over 276 million people, Indonesia is the fourth most populous nation in the world.
Qatar Airways choose the right media placement to announce the direct flight route at Giant LED Kualanamu Medan Airport.
Giant LED at the departure Departure Boarding checkpoint, Kualanamu International Airport, Medan, Indonesia
To promote and announce the direct flight information, Qatar Airways chose the most prominent advertising site in Kualanamu Medan Airport, which is 100% reaching all departing passengers’ attention. The right placement makes the message reach millions of views, targeting Medan residents and Sumatra residents globally.
The presence of Qatar Airways at Kualanamu International Airport not only opens up new opportunities for the local economy but also strengthens Kualanamu’s position as a major aviation hub in the region and also provides convenience for tourists and business people in both destinations.
What are you waiting for? Contact Us now!