On rebuilding tourism sector How would you assess the current stage of Syria’s tourism recovery? MOURHAF NAZHA: Syria’s tourism recovery is nascent but the foundations are strong, particularly considering its cultural and historical sites, opportunities for religious tourism, diverse landscapes and rich food culture. Tourism activity was largely on hold for 15 years, so Syria is naturally…
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 infrastructure development and digitalisation are helping to drive industry expansion How can tourism development ensure genuine economic participation by local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and communities? SHABIB AL MAAMARI: Tourism development today must go beyond building hotels and attractions – it must create value that stays in the community. The strategy now is to…
In 2024 the Middle East witnessed the sharpest relative increase in international arrivals of any region in the world, solidifying its rebound from the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic and further raising its profile as an increasingly attractive destination for inbound tourism. According to UN Tourism, the Middle East, with 95m arrivals, remained the strongest-performing region when compared to…
A key but often-overlooked pillar of Kuwait’s economy is its tourism, culture and sports sectors – industries now experiencing strong growth as policymakers work to diversify beyond oil and elevate the nation’s global standing. The sectors’ contribution to economic diversification has increased as cultural assets expand, sporting institutions modernise and private participation grows. As the…
Tourism, culture and sport are emerging as pillars of Kuwait’s economic diversification strategy, supporting efforts to broaden national income sources beyond hydrocarbons. As part of New Kuwait 2035, policymakers are investing in cultural institutions, recreational infrastructure and modernised sports facilities while encouraging private sector participation. Kuwait’s visitor economy remains selective:…
