On evolving demand, investment opportunities and the factors shaping performance across Qatar’s hospitality sector How has demand across the hospitality sector evolved in recent years? Which visitor segments are expected to drive future growth? MEDHAT NOUBY: Qatar’s hospitality sector has continued to broaden from the strong platform created by major international events into an increasingly…
Tourism has been a major economic driver in Qatar since it was designated as a key industry under the Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 development strategy. Following the launch of QNV 2030, the government has invested heavily in the sector and encouraged greater private sector participation. The 2022 FIFA World Cup significantly raised Qatar’s international profile as a tourism destination, and…
Global tourism has entered a new phase of growth, with destinations competing on connectivity, visitor experience and sustainability rather than simply rebuilding visitor numbers. International arrivals exceeded pre-pandemic levels in 2024, supported by consumer demand, air connectivity and strong spending across leisure and business travel markets. At the same time, geopolitical uncertainty, inflationary…
Interview: Khaled bin Ibrahim Al Sulaiti, General Manager, Cultural Village Foundation – Katara, on sustaining engagement in the arts How can cultural districts translate Qatar’s visitor momentum into higher year-round attendance at performances, exhibitions and festivals? AL SULAITI: One of the key challenges facing cultural districts worldwide is converting visitor interest into sustained cultural…
Tourism has been a major economic driver in Qatar since it was designated as a key industry under the Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 development strategy. Following the launch of QNV 2030, the government has invested heavily in the sector and encouraged greater private sector participation. The 2022 FIFA World Cup significantly raised Qatar’s international profile as a tourism destination, and…
Despite heightened regional uncertainty stemming from the 2026 Iran conflict, Qatar continues to demonstrate economic resilience, supported by its position as one of the world’s leading LNG exporters, strong fiscal fundamentals and prudent policymaking. While short-term disruption has affected energy exports, trade and logistics, the country remains committed to advancing the objectives of Qatar
On how private sector leadership is shaping Qatar’s next phase of growth What role do you see for private health care providers in developing specialised clinics and boosting medical tourism offerings? SHEIKH FAISAL BIN QASSIM AL THANI: The private sector plays a vital role in strengthening Qatar’s health care system and we are seeing a clear and growing contribution in this area. There…
Interview: Amro Al Hamad, Executive Director, Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation, on the social and economic benefits that result from hosting major events To what extent can major global sports events contribute to economic development? AMRO AL HAMAD: Major international sports events directly and substantially impact Qatar’s economic development. These events bring in visitors who spend on…
The sports industry has been positioned as a key sector in Qatar National Vision 2030, identified as a key pillar of economic diversification. In support of this objective, Qatar has made substantial investment in sports infrastructure, technology, talent development and high-profile international events. The 2022 FIFA World Cup marked a pivotal moment in this regard, elevating Qatar’s profile on…
As emerging markets develop new attractions and tap into new visitor source markets, they are leveraging technology and sustainable development in line with emissions targets. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), travel demand is expected to generate 126m employment opportunities worldwide by 2032, with more than 60% of these jobs in the Asia-Pacific region. The lifting of travel…
