Lamp Bear HIA
The iconic Lamp Bear, a giant yellow teddy bear sculpture, is the playful heart of Hamad International Airport, Doha.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos
Lamp Bear HIA
Best Time
Fewer crowds for photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
The iconic Lamp Bear, a giant yellow teddy bear sculpture, is the playful heart of Hamad International Airport, Doha.
"The Lamp Bear at Hamad International Airport is an iconic masterpiece! This massive yellow teddy bear adds a unique and playful charm."
📸 Selfie Spot Alert!
The Lamp Bear is a prime photo op! Be patient, as it's a popular spot for travelers.
📍 Meeting Point Magic
Use the Lamp Bear as a central meeting point for friends or family in the busy departure hall.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lamp Bear Sculpture
Grand Foyer, Departure Hall
A colossal, canary-yellow teddy bear sculpture by Urs Fischer, a playful icon of Hamad International Airport.

Louis Vuitton Vivienne & Lamp Bear
Near Louis Vuitton Store
Meet Vivienne, the LV mascot, alongside the famous Lamp Bear, creating a unique fashion and art intersection.

HIA's Art Installations
Various locations throughout the airport
Discover a world-class collection of art, including sculptures and paintings, transforming the airport into an exhibition space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Spot the Iconic Lamp Bear
Beyond the Bear: HIA's Art Scene
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Selfie Spot Alert!
The Lamp Bear is a prime photo op! Be patient, as it's a popular spot for travelers.
📍 Meeting Point Magic
Use the Lamp Bear as a central meeting point for friends or family in the busy departure hall.
🛍️ Apple Products Available
You can find Apple products at a store behind the Lamp Bear, though it's not an official Apple Store.
✈️ Arrive Early for Art
Give yourself extra time to explore HIA's art installations beyond the Lamp Bear.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Selfie Spot Alert!
The Lamp Bear is a prime photo op! Be patient, as it's a popular spot for travelers.
📍 Meeting Point Magic
Use the Lamp Bear as a central meeting point for friends or family in the busy departure hall.
🛍️ Apple Products Available
You can find Apple products at a store behind the Lamp Bear, though it's not an official Apple Store.
✈️ Arrive Early for Art
Give yourself extra time to explore HIA's art installations beyond the Lamp Bear.
💛 Iconic Yellow Icon
This 23-foot bronze teddy bear is a beloved landmark for travelers passing through Doha.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers rave about the Lamp Bear at Hamad International Airport, calling it an iconic and playful masterpiece that adds unique charm. While some find it a bit strange and crowded, most agree it's a must-see landmark for photos and a great meeting point. The airport itself is praised for its art and amenities, making it more than just a transit hub.
"The Lamp Bear at Hamad International Airport is an iconic masterpiece! This massive yellow teddy bear with a giant lamp over its head adds a unique and playful charm to the airport. It’s not just a sculpture—it’s a conversation starter and a perfect landmark for meeting up with fellow travelers.
Whether you're passing through Doha for a short layover or a long stay, stopping to admire (and take a photo with) the Lamp Bear is a must!"
ashish dhakal
"This modern art piece by Urs Fischer is in the middle of the hustle and bustle of probably the busiest part of the airport. Just like almost everyone, we also made a stop for a selfie. The airport is a very innovative exhibition space and has multiple art installations worth checking out if you have time between flights."
Bella CM
"In the pantheon of weird art, Lamp/Bear is certainly a member. It’s big, it’s prominent, it’s strange, it’s most likely crowded.
If you’re in Doha for a layover, why not see this fused freak?"
Matt B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lamp Bear is located in the grand foyer of Hamad International Airport (HIA), the main departure hall. It's impossible to miss as you navigate through the airport.
Yes, HIA is known for its modern design and clear signage, making it easy to find key landmarks like the Lamp Bear and various art installations.
Absolutely! The Lamp Bear is in the main departure area, accessible to all passengers transiting through HIA.
HIA is well-connected by the Doha Metro (Red Line), taxis, and ride-sharing services, making it convenient to reach from the city.
Yes, HIA offers various parking options, including short-term and long-term parking facilities for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Lamp Bear is a public art installation within Hamad International Airport and is free to view for all passengers.
Hamad International Airport operates 24/7, so you can visit the Lamp Bear at any time.
All art installations at Hamad International Airport, including the Lamp Bear, are free to admire.
Yes, taking photos with the Lamp Bear is highly encouraged and a popular activity for travelers.
Visiting early in the morning or late at night generally means fewer people, making it easier to get unobstructed photos.
📸 📸 Photography
Try different angles! Getting a wide shot shows its scale, while a closer shot highlights its unique design. Early or late hours offer better lighting and fewer people.
Definitely! HIA features numerous art installations and modern architectural elements perfect for photography enthusiasts.
Generally, flash photography is permitted in public areas of the airport, but it's always good to be mindful of other travelers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the Lamp Bear's full size, while a standard zoom lens is versatile for other airport sights.
The main foyer provides the most direct view. Experiment with shots from slightly further back to include more of the airport's grandeur.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Yes, the Lamp Bear is located near the airport's duty-free area and luxury brand stores, including Louis Vuitton.
There's a store selling Apple products in the main terminal behind the Lamp Bear, though it's not an official Apple Store.
HIA offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, catering to all tastes.
Yes, HIA boasts a vast duty-free selection, offering everything from perfumes and cosmetics to electronics and souvenirs.
You'll find numerous cafes and restaurants in the vicinity of the Lamp Bear, perfect for a meal or a quick snack.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When planning your visit, consider arriving a little earlier to allow children time to explore without the stress of rushing. The airport's spacious layout means there's plenty of room to move around. Many dining options cater to younger palates, and the duty-free shops offer a wide range of toys and treats. The overall atmosphere at HIA is calm and organized, which can be a relief for parents traveling with young ones.
✈️ Transit Passengers
If you have a longer layover, take advantage of HIA's extensive art collection, world-class shopping, and diverse dining options. Consider booking a lounge pass for extra comfort, or explore the airport's quiet rooms for a moment of peace. Keep an eye on your flight information screens, as HIA is a large airport, and your connecting gate might be a walk away.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Beyond the Lamp Bear, HIA's modern architecture and diverse art installations provide endless photographic opportunities. Look for the interplay of light and shadow on the polished floors, the sleek lines of the terminal, and the various sculptures scattered throughout. The Louis Vuitton store's proximity to the Lamp Bear also offers a unique blend of luxury and art for creative shots. Remember to be respectful of other travelers and avoid blocking pathways while you capture your perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Hamad International Airport
One of the most celebrated pieces is the Lamp Bear by Swiss artist Urs Fischer. This colossal, canary-yellow teddy bear, perched inside a giant lamp, has become a symbol of HIA and a popular spot for travelers to take photos and meet. Its whimsical nature adds a touch of playfulness to the otherwise sophisticated airport environment. The presence of such prominent art pieces elevates HIA from a mere transit hub to a cultural destination in itself, offering moments of reflection and inspiration amidst the hustle of travel.
Other notable artworks include the 'Cosmos' sculpture by Jean-Michel Othoniel, a series of black obsidian spheres that create a mesmerizing visual effect, and 'Small Lies' by KAWS, a playful vinyl sculpture. HIA actively collaborates with artists and institutions to ensure a dynamic and evolving art program, making each visit a potentially new visual experience. Travelers with layovers are encouraged to allocate extra time to explore these artistic treasures, turning a waiting period into an opportunity for cultural enrichment.
Navigating HIA: Tips for Travelers
For travelers looking to make the most of their time at HIA, arriving a bit earlier than usual is recommended. This allows ample time to admire the Lamp Bear and other art installations without feeling rushed. It also provides an opportunity to explore the extensive duty-free shopping, which features a wide range of luxury brands and local products. The airport also offers various dining options, from quick bites to gourmet meals, ensuring travelers can find something to suit their preferences.
For those seeking comfort during a long layover, HIA provides several premium lounges and even quiet rooms for relaxation. The airport also offers services like free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the terminals. Remember to keep an eye on flight information displays, as HIA is a large airport, and gates can sometimes be a considerable walk away.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit