Qatar Tourism Is Emerging As A Premier Travel Destination, Blending Rich Arabian Tradition With Modern Amenities

(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula

Qatar has continuously made remarkable progress in the field of tourism, utilizing its abundant cultural heritage, modern infrastructure, and strategic investments to establish itself as a top-notch destination not only within the region but also on a global scale. Qatar tourism (QT), the governing body responsible for tourism in Qatar, aims to further enhance the appeal of Qatar as a prominent international destination through a wide range of noteworthy activities.

These efforts are aimed at attracting tourists from all corners of the world and contributing to the country's ongoing endeavors to diversify its economy.

In an exclusive interview with The Peninsula, Dr. Buthaina Al Janahi, the Head of Communications at QT, provides valuable insights into the tourism landscape in Qatar, the future prospects of the sector, and the reasons behind the continuous growth of Qatar's tourism industry, among other topics.

Can you provide an overview of the current tourism scene in Qatar, especially focusing on recent trends and developments?

Qatar is emerging as a premier travel destination, blending rich Arabian tradition with modern amenities. Our prime location at the crossroads between East and West makes us only six to eight hours away from most major cities globally. We are committed to growing Qatar's international position as a leading destination on the world tourism map. Some iconic attractions in the country include Meryal Waterpark and the award-winning Habitas Ras Abrouq, both offering unique experiences for visitors. We are also expanding our international reach through partnerships with travel organisations, launching new charter flights in untapped markets, and opening representative offices worldwide.

How would you describe Qatar's tourism industry in the post World Cup era?

The post-World Cup era has sustained the momentum and increased global awareness of Qatar as a must visit travel destination. The successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022TM highlighted Qatar's hospitality, infrastructure, and cultural richness, leaving a lasting positive impression. We have capitalised on this by enhancing our tourism offerings to maintain the influx of tourists. In 2023, we welcomed over four million visitors, and 2024 is set to be a record year, with more than two million visitors in the first four months alone. The industry is now focused on leveraging the World Cup legacy to boost year-round tourism, emphasising our unique attractions and the diverse experiences available to visitors.

What initiatives has Qatar Tourism undertaken to promote tourism during the summer months?

To promote tourism during the summer months, Qatar Tourism launched a host of curated events and activations for visitors of all ages. Upcoming events include Thekra Night at QNCC with singers Asma Lmnawer and Oumima Taleb on June 18, and Mai Farooq and Reham Abdulhakem on June 19. Exciting events for kids include Inflata City at QNCC from June 18 to July 13, Skill Fest at various locations from June to August, and the annual Qatar Toy Festival at DECC from July 15 to August 14. Additionally, our summer campaign will feature special offers and promotions for visitors and residents.

Are there any initiatives taken to promote summer tourism within the country and GCC region?

We have launched several initiatives to promote tourism during summer in Qatar and across the GCC region. One key initiative which was launched earlier this year and maintains its relevance to summer tourism within the GCC is the 'Double the Discovery' campaign with the Saudi Tourism Authority. This campaign promotes tourism in both the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, offering travelers the opportunity to explore the rich cultural and historical wonders of both countries in a single trip. Through carefully curated travel packages, 'Double the Discovery' provides unique and immersive experiences showcasing the diverse landscapes and vibrant traditions of Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

Additionally, we have introduced stopover flight packages in Doha in collaboration with Qatar Airways. These packages, designed to maximise visitors' time in Qatar, include 24-hour check-in facilities and can be tailored with options like airport assistance, transfers, and various tours. These initiatives, along with our summer campaign and promotions, primarily target the GCC and residents of Qatar, offering attractive travel options and unforgettable experiences.

Qatar is known for its diverse attractions, from cultural landmarks to modern entertainment venues. How is Qatar Tourism leveraging these attractions to attract visitors during the summer season?

Qatar Tourism leverages its diverse attractions by curating world-class events and activities that highlight our cultural landmarks and modern entertainment venues. Our strategy includes developing new districts like the Qetaifan Islands, which offer unique residential, commercial, and entertainment hubs. We also promote natural retreats in the desert, providing visitors with immersive experiences that explore local culture and history. By offering a mix of traditional and modern attractions, we ensure that visitors have a memorable and enriching experience during the summer season.

Sustainability and environmental conservation are growing concerns globally. How does Qatar Tourism balance promoting tourism with preserving Qatar's natural and cultural heritage?

Sustainability is a cornerstone of Qatar's tourism strategy. We believe that sustainable development in the tourism industry can bring economic, social, and cultural benefits to both the local community and visitors, aligning with the objectives of our 2030 Tourism Strategy and the Qatar National Vision 2030. To achieve these sustainable tourism goals, Qatar Tourism collaborates with partners in both the public and private sectors.

Qatar Tourism also promotes responsible tourism by implementing sustainable practices and ensuring that all tourism projects adhere to rigorous environmental standards. Our offerings, such as eco-friendly whale shark tours, highlights our commitment to preserving Qatar's natural and cultural heritage.

What role do partnerships with airlines, hotels, and other stakeholders play in promoting tourism in Qatar? Are there any notable collaborations in place for the upcoming months?

Qatar Tourism is constantly looking to partner with stakeholders across Qatar and the world to promote the tourism sector in the country. Collaborations like our joint efforts with Qatar Airways on stopover packages and the 'Double the Discovery' campaign with the Saudi Tourism Authority exemplify our strategy to enhance Qatar's appeal. These partnerships enable us to offer tailored travel experiences and expand our reach in key markets. We are also working closely with international travel organisations and opening new representative offices worldwide to promote Qatar as a premier tourist destination. These collaborations are essential in driving our tourism growth and ensuring a seamless experience for visitors.

Lastly, looking ahead, what's next for tourism in Qatar?

Qatar is poised to continue its growth as a leading global travel destination. Our focus will be on expanding our international reach, developing new tourism assets, and enhancing service excellence. We aim to strengthen Qatar's position as a premier family-tourism destination, distinguished by its world-class attractions and warm Arabian hospitality. Our long-term vision includes ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, promoting sustainable development, and fostering cultural exchange.

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