Will Qatar’s Growing Tourism Sector Have Ripple Effects on Other GCC Countries?

The burgeoning appeal of Qatar as a prime leisure and family destination is predicted to have a positive ripple effect on the region, as it piques the interest of travelers from various regions to discover other GCC countries, industry experts say. This development is anticipated to boost tourism and related sectors, such as retail and hospitality, throughout the region.

Avens Travel & Tours’ Doha Managing Director Naser Karukapadath explained to Gulf Times that Qatar’s strategic location enables travelers from regions like Asia and Europe to easily visit neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, and Kuwait, thereby expanding their Middle Eastern travel experiences.

He commended Qatar Tourism for facilitating international visitors’ entry into the country, which has a positive impact on not only Qatar but also the region’s tourism industry and other sectors. The tourism sector’s growth in Qatar can positively affect the country’s economy and creates opportunities for businesses in the hospitality industry.

The new Hayya platform is particularly attractive because it draws a diverse range of visitors, including those from GCC countries, and Asian countries like India, Pakistan, and the Philippines. It streamlines the entry process for visitors by offering e-gate facilities at airports and expedited lanes at border checkpoints for those arriving by car.

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Influx of GCC Visitors to Qatar’s Growing Tourism Sector During Eid

The recent Eid al-Fitr celebration in Qatar saw a significant increase in visitors, particularly those traveling by car. Tawfeeq Travel Group CEO Rehan Ali Syed told Gulf Times that the opening of land borders had led to a considerable influx of cars from all GCC states entering Qatar, resulting in extremely busy times at the Abu Samra border.

The post-FIFA World Cup 2022 period has witnessed a growing interest in visiting Qatar, and the free entry offered through the Hayya Card has made it considerably easier for everyone to visit the country. Syed cited the fantastic Eid celebration in Qatar, which included fireworks shows and various events throughout the city, as an example of the welcoming atmosphere.

Qatar’s high hotel occupancy rates during this period further underscore the surge in visitor numbers. Travel agencies with destination management facilities have been actively promoting diverse experiences in Qatar, such as desert safaris, beach camps, shopping excursions, kayaking in mangroves, visits to Baladna Park and stadiums, as well as popular destinations like Souq Waqif.

Syed emphasized that the World Cup was beneficial for the entire region, as many passengers had the opportunity to experience Gulf hospitality by staying in different countries and traveling to Qatar for matches. The high level of safety and quality of facilities available in the region pleasantly surprised visitors, sparking their interest in exploring the area further. A surge in queries from passengers on long transits who are keen to experience Qatar and its neighboring countries evidences this increased interest.