Qatar offers a plethora of key attractions and experiences that set it apart from other destinations in the region. Situated at the crossroads between East and West, Qatar’s convenient location ensures easy access for travellers from major cities across the globe, with flight times typically ranging from six to eight hours.
Dr. Buthaina Al Janahi, Head of Communications at Qatar Tourism, tells TTN about how the country lends itself perfectly to slow travel and practices sustainability led initiatives.
“One of Qatar’s unique aspects is its suitability for slow travel, offering visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene natural retreats of the desert while exploring the rich local culture and history.
“Qatar has also witnessed the development of entirely new districts, such as the Qetaifan Islands in Lusail, which have become thriving residential, commercial, and entertainment hubs. Qetaifan Island North boasts a state-of-the-art waterpark featuring the world’s highest water slide at 85 meters, luxurious residential accommodations with beachfront views, and vibrant retail plazas. On the other hand, Qetaifan Island South offers an array of amenities, including extensive retail spaces, residential areas, a traditional souq, and yacht and sailing clubs, all nestled amidst Qatar’s tranquil waters,” she says.
Qatar prides itself on its world-class facilities, with 128 venues collectively offering an impressive exhibition capacity of 70,000 square metres. The country’s commitment to safety is also noteworthy, as evidenced by its consistent ranking as the safest country in the world by Numbeo for five consecutive years. Qatar’s emergence as a leading global travel destination is characterised by its rich Arabian tradition and heritage, which have welcomed guests from around the world for decades. These diverse attractions and experiences collectively contribute to Qatar’s allure as a premier tourist destination in the region.
“As an integral part of Qatar Tourism’s marketing and promotional efforts, Visit Qatar actively spearheads various initiatives to capitalise on upcoming events and attractions, promoting tourism and enriching the visitor experience in Qatar. Aligned with Qatar Tourism’s strategic vision to solidify Qatar’s position as a leading global tourism destination, we have devised a comprehensive plan that extends until 2030. This strategy meticulously identifies 15 priority markets and six tourism spaces, highlighting the essence of Qatar’s natural beauty, premier tourism assets, and compelling offerings.
“By strategically focusing on these priority markets and tailoring our offerings to cater to both point-to-point and stopover travel, our aim is to attract a diverse array of visitors from across the globe.”
“In line with our commitment to expanding Qatar’s international reach, we are forging new partnerships with travel organisations, launching charter flights in untapped markets, and establishing representative offices worldwide dedicated to promoting Qatar as a tourism destination. These efforts are essential in showcasing Qatar’s unique attractions and experiences to a global audience and encouraging more visitors to explore our country.”
GOING GREEN
Qatar Tourism is also focusing on being more sustainable with various initiatives, for example the successful execution of responsible whale shark tours. These tours prioritise the conservation of the endangered species while providing visitors with an opportunity to experience them up close. By adhering to best practices and operating principles, we ensure that these tours have minimal impact on the marine environment, thereby preserving it for future generations to enjoy.
Sustainability is also integrated into Visit Qatar’s flagship events, such as the Qatar International Food Festival, says Dr Buthaina. “Through partnerships with local charities, we ensure the efficient and environmentally friendly removal of food waste, minimizing our ecological footprint while promoting sustainable practices within the tourism sector.”