Qatar’s tourism industry is soaring, defying predictions of a post-World Cup decline. In 2023, the country welcomed four million visitors, a 39% increase over the World Cup year. This year has also started strong, with Doha hosting the AFC Asian Cup soccer tournament and welcoming a record 700,000 visitors in January.
The influx of tourists has not been limited to sports enthusiasts. Qatar is actively attracting families, medical tourists, and business travelers through a diverse lineup of conferences and exhibitions. The Qatar Economic Forum, Geneva International Motor Show, and Web Summit have all held successful events in Doha, attracting thousands of attendees.
Qatar’s tourism ambitions are not confined to its borders. The country aims to collaborate with its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) neighbors, including Saudi Arabia, to create a unified tourist destination. A new Schengen-style visa is in the final stages of approval, allowing visitors to explore all six GCC nations with a single visa.
The liberalization of the hospitality sector is a key element of Qatar’s tourism strategy. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism, has stated that the government will remove obstacles and restrictions on hotel operating hours and licensing.
Qatar’s success in fostering a thriving tourism industry is a testament to its strategic investments and commitment to diversifying its economy. By hosting major sporting events, developing a strong conference and exhibition sector, and collaborating with neighboring countries, Qatar is well-positioned to achieve its goal of becoming a global tourist hub.
