Qatar’s flourishing tourism sector not only brings investment opportunities but also significantly contributes to job creation, marking a shift away from traditional sectors like oil and gas, an industry expert has said.
“It has a ripple effect, creating jobs in related industries such as hospitality, entertainment, retail, construction and other services,” Mosaad Moustafa Eleiwa, the founder and managing director of Outing Qatar, told Gulf Times as he underlined the transformative impact of the growing tourism industry on Qatar’s economy.
He said the burgeoning sector is also stimulating Qatar’s real estate market, attracting increased investments in both commercial and residential properties.
Eleiwa cited a recent meeting with a British visitor, who inspired by his experience, rented a luxury car and expressed plans to open a company in Doha. This, he said, underscores the positive impact of tourism on attracting foreign investment and fostering economic diversity.
He said Qatar, to bolster this momentum, implemented a series of initiatives aimed at attracting more visitors and promoting tourism. Key among these strategies, he added, is a substantial investment in infrastructure development, featuring world-class hotels, airports and transportation systems to enhance the overall visitor experience.
According to Eleiwa, the country also positioned itself as a global hub for major international events. Following the success of hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he said Qatar continues to attract attention with events like the Qatar Open in tennis, the Qatar Masters in golf, the MotoGP Grand Prix, the Asian Cup, and various year-round international events and exhibitions.
He noted that Qatar Airways, the national carrier, plays a key role in connecting the nation to the world. The airline's global network and high-quality services contribute to Qatar’s allure as a luxury travel destination, with visa facilitation and stopover options further enticing travellers, he added.
Eleiwa pointed out that a noteworthy focus has been on developing cruise tourism, with investments in Doha’s old port facilities and initiatives to position Qatar as a cruise destination. These efforts, he stressed, aim to attract visitors arriving by sea, broadening the spectrum of experiences offered by the country.
“These initiatives collectively contribute to Qatar’s efforts to position itself as a leading tourism destination, offering a mix of cultural, sporting, and entertainment experiences for visitors from around the world,” he said.
Eleiwa said Qatar Tourism (QT) emerged as a crucial player in these endeavours as it actively participates in international events and exhibitions to showcase the nation's diverse offerings. By collaborating with national and international stakeholders, he said QT aims to improve the overall visitor experience through smart goals and campaigns.
He noted that strategies prioritised by Qatar’s tourism sector include ensuring ease of access to the country from land, sea and sky, as well as building networks and collaborating with international tourism organisations, travel agencies and airlines. These partnerships, he added, facilitate joint marketing efforts and help attract tourists from new source markets, ultimately contributing to Qatar’s sustainable growth, economic benefits, and overall development.
Mosaad Moustafa Eleiwa
