Al Udeid Air Base airport (XJD)

Al Udeid Air Base (IATA: XJD / ICAO: OTBH) is a pivotal military airbase located southwest of Doha, the capital city of Qatar. Established during the late 1990s and becoming operational in 2000, Al Udeid has since evolved into one of the most significant airbases in the region. Strategically positioned in the Middle East, its importance extends beyond Qatar as it plays a crucial role in international military operations and coalition activities, particularly for NATO and the United States.

Sitting approximately 30 kilometers from Doha, Al Udeid Air Base is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and can accommodate a diverse range of aircraft, from fighter jets to cargo planes. Unlike commercial international airports, Al Udeid primarily functions as a military airbase, serving as a key logistics and operations hub. However, it does feature some infrastructure to support transient civilian and diplomatic flights when necessary, underscoring its versatile nature.

While specific statistics concerning the exact number of flights, passengers, and airlines operating at Al Udeid are not typically disclosed due to its military designation, the airbase is known to host significant military aircraft from various allied nations, with a dizzying volume of operational sorties supporting global missions. As the home to the largest US military presence in the Middle East, it accommodates thousands of military personnel, making it a bustling node of military activity and coordination.

Al Udeid continues to be an asset of strategic importance, reflecting Qatar's central role in regional security and global military alliances. The base not only fortifies Qatar's defense capabilities but also leverages its geographical location to support international stability and rapid response to emergent global threats.