Qatar Airways names Hamad al-Khater as new group CEO, to lead airline from today — Who is he?

Qatar Airways CEO: State-owned Qatar Airways said on Sunday that it has appointed Hamad al-Khater as the group’s chief executive officer (CEO).

Khater’s appointment as Qatar Airways group CEO will be effective December 7, according to a press release issued on Sunday.

Hamad al-Khater will replace Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, who has served as CEO since October 2023. He replaced Akbar Al Baker, one of the airline industry’s most outspoken leaders, who retired after leading the airline for almost three decades.

“Qatar Airways Group today announced the appointment of Mr. Hamad Ali Al-Khater as Group Chief Executive Officer, effective Sunday, December 7, 2025. Mr. Al-Khater succeeds Engineer Badr Mohammed Al-Meer,” the airline said in a press release.

In his new role, Khater will be responsible for “ensuring the safety and reliability of airport operations, while leading strategic direction, operational excellence, infrastructure expansion and the continuous improvement of the passenger experience.”

Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Qatar Airways Group Chairman, welcomed his appointment.

“As we welcome Mr. Hamad Ali Al-Khater, we look forward to building on Qatar Airways’ strong foundations and extensive global network, supported by our exceptional team in Qatar and around the world. With this leadership transition, Qatar Airways Group reaffirms its commitment to delivering world-class experiences, reliability and innovation to passengers around the world,” he said.

Who is Hamad al-Khater?

During his last assignment, Hamad al-Khater served as chief operating officer at Hamad International Airport.

He also served as the airport’s vice president of business development, according to his LinkedIn profile.

Prior to his role at Hamad International Airport, Khater held senior roles at QatarEnergy, leading business development, deal execution and large-scale strategic and operational initiatives.

He worked at QatarEnergy for more than eight years and has also held positions at other oil and gas companies.

Hamad al-Khater began his career as an LNG market analyst at Qatar Petroleum in 2009 and then moved to Shell as a commercial consultant in 2011. After a brief stint at the company, he rejoined Qatar Petroleum as a senior LNG market analyst and then moved to RasGas in 2013.

Khater has served as a board member of several companies, including QatarEnergy Trading, QAFCO (Qatar Fertilizer Company), Al Koot Insurance and Reinsurance Company and Nebras Power QSC.

Hamad al-Khater holds a BBA from the University of Kent, specializing in business and marketing.