Discover Qatar, the destination management company arm of Qatar Airways, has signed exclusive partnership agreements with four of the world’s major tour operators in Russia, Italy, Czech Republic and Ukraine to promote the country as a major tourist destination.

The agreement with outbound tour operators is expected to significantly boost Qatar’s tourism, as nationals of the four countries can take advantage of visa-free entry into Qatar.
“We currently serve the people of Russia, Italy, Czech Republic and Ukraine by flying to these destinations through our global network,” Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar al-Baker said.
“Through this initiative, we will provide further opportunity to welcome more people to Qatar, our beautiful, welcoming and historic country, and we are committed to presenting the very best of Arabian hospitality to our visitors, giving them a positive and lasting impression of Qatar,” he added.
The four tour operators that Discover Qatar has partnered with are: Viaggidea, Alpitour SpA from Italy, Fischer Group from Czech Republic, Space Travel from Russia and JoinUp from Ukraine.
Qatar Airways currently operates 42 flights from Italy, 14 flights from Russia, seven flights from Czech Republic and seven flights from Ukraine per week. The award-winning airline will also launch direct flights to Russia’s St Petersburg in December.
The number of flights to Kyiv, Ukraine and Prague will be doubled by mid-December due to passenger demand, just a few months after the launch of services to these popular destinations.
“Qatar has so much to offer its visitors. From beaches to amazing landscapes, cultural landmarks, heritage sites and pristine deserts, the country offers something special for every traveller,” Owner of the Ukrainian tour operator JoinUp, Aleksandr Alba, said.
“Thanks to the recent change in visa regulations, Ukrainians now do not need a visa to enter Qatar, and this is a great opportunity for us to bring thousands of Ukrainians to experience this beautiful country,” he stressed.
Chief executive of Russian tour operator Space Travel, Artur Muradyan, said: “Given the short flying distance and high quality and comfort of Qatar Airways, we see huge potential in Qatar.”
“Alongside lovely winter weather, there are some superb beach hotels to cater for the Russian sun seeker. Additionally there are many unique cultural experiences to enjoy. We believe the destination will be a great attraction for Russian visitors,” he added.
Chief Executive of Czech tour operator, Fischer Group, Jiri Jelinek shared the same views saying that with recent changes to visa regulations, direct flights and proximity of destination, he sees the potential of Qatar, an exciting destination for “sun-seeking clientele.”
Brand manager of Italian tour operator, Viaggidea, Alpitour SpA, Palolo Guariento said the beach properties offer customers a great value for a winter sun break in warm and luxurious surroundings.
“Qatar also has amazing landscapes and a pristine desert for our clients to enjoy,” he noted. “Its Souq’s are authentic and its museums are of the highest quality.”
In August, Qatar’s Ministry of Interior, Qatar Tourism Authority and Qatar Airways announced that nationals from more than 80 countries can take advantage of visa-free entry into Qatar upon arrival.

Related Story