The third edition of Qatar Travel Mart (QTM), organised by NeXTfairs, will take place from November 25 to 27, 2024, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), showcasing Qatar as a leading hub in the industry.
QTM 2023 saw participation from 60 countries, 250 exhibitors, and nearly 10,000 visitors. This year, the show floor is twice as big as last year’s, says Rawad Sleem, Co-Founder & General Manager of NeXTfairs.
Here’s an excerpt of the conversation:
We heard QTM 2024 will be twice as big as last year?
The expansion of Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2024 to twice the size of last year’s event is a significant milestone for us. This growth reflects Qatar’s increasing prominence as a global hub for tourism and the rising demand for international travel within the region. The event’s expansion, which now covers over 10,000 square metres of exhibition space, aligns with Qatar’s strategic objectives to grow the tourism sector by doubling its visitor numbers and contributing to the national economy.
The global travel and tourism sector is projected to reach $9.73 trillion by the end of 2024, showcasing a 4.3 per cent annual growth. This makes our event highly relevant as it provides a crucial platform for tourism stakeholders from around the world to network, explore business opportunities, and highlight sustainable and luxury travel trends that are shaping the future of the industry.
Who are the key exhibitors, and which countries are they from?
We are excited to welcome key exhibitors who are at the forefront of shaping global travel. Among them is Visit Qatar, the national tourism authority, which continues to elevate Qatar’s status as a premier travel destination. Katara Hospitality, a pivotal player in Qatar’s luxury hospitality sector, will showcase its global portfolio of iconic hotels, contributing to the rising demand for cultural and luxury tourism.
In addition, international tourism boards and associations will be present, including St. Petersburg Convention Bureau from Russia, showcasing the unique charm of this historic city; Seychelles Tourism Board, representing the Indian Ocean’s pristine beauty; Dominican Republic Tourism Board, showcasing the Caribbean’s finest offerings; and Turkey, a perennial favourite for its rich history and vibrant culture.
These exhibitors will cater to the projected 60 per cent increase in global travellers seeking authentic cultural and sustainable tourism experiences by 2026.
Who are the first-time exhibitors?
We are thrilled to welcome the Moroccan National Tourist Office as a first-time exhibitor at QTM 2024. Morocco, with its unique blend of culture, heritage, and stunning landscapes, will offer travellers a fascinating new destination, especially those interested in exploring North Africa. Morocco’s tourism sector is currently experiencing a 5% annual growth, driven by its unique blend of ancient history and modern experiences, and it will likely be a major draw for Qatari travellers seeking diverse cultural experiences.
What trends do you notice among the new exhibitors?
A key trend we’ve observed this year is a strong focus on experiential travel and sustainable tourism. New exhibitors are keen on promoting eco-friendly travel options, unique cultural experiences, and lesser-known gems that appeal to travellers seeking authenticity.
For instance, destinations offering eco-lodges, wellness retreats, and off-the-beaten-path travel are gaining traction, aligning with a projected 20 per cent annual increase in demand for sustainable tourism.
Additionally, wellness tourism, which is expected to grow by 7.5 per cent annually, is becoming a major focus as travellers increasingly combine their vacations with opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation.
What are the key themes of the show this year?
The central themes for QTM 2024 revolve around sustainable tourism, luxury experiences, and cultural exploration. We aim to promote Qatar as a top-tier travel destination while highlighting the growing trend toward environmentally conscious tourism. The event aligns with Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which focuses on achieving a balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
With luxury travel projected to reach a market size of $546 billion by 2028, our focus is to blend luxury with authenticity, offering transformative travel experiences. Cultural exploration remains a priority, especially as 85 per cent of travellers now prefer destinations that provide immersive and authentic cultural experiences.
What are the new destinations that will interest Qatari travellers this winter and going into summer 2025?
Qatari travellers have shown increasing interest in destinations that offer a mix of luxury and adventure. This winter and heading into summer 2025, destinations such as Almaty, with its breathtaking mountain landscapes, are rising in popularity among those seeking unique and adventurous experiences.
Seychelles remains a favourite for its serene beaches and eco-friendly resorts, aligning with the global wellness travel trend. Meanwhile, Turkey’s major cities, including Istanbul, Antalya, and Bodrum, continue to attract travellers for their rich culture and luxurious resorts. Morocco’s Marrakech is also gaining momentum as a popular destination, offering a vibrant mix of culture, history, and hospitality. With the luxury travel market in the MENA region expected to grow by 5.6 per cent annually, these destinations are poised to see strong interest from Qatari travellers seeking exclusive and transformative travel experiences.