Qatar Tourism (QT) has launched ‘Taste of Qatar’ programme, an initiative to evaluate and enhance the dining experience across Qatar’s restaurant sector.
Developed in collaboration with the global research firm, Ipsos and the Ministry of Public Health, the initiative combines front-of-house service evaluations with comprehensive back-of-house hygiene and safety assessments. The result is a public rating designation to ensure that Qatar’s restaurants meet the highest international standards.
Restaurants that excel in the programme will be awarded a 3-star certification, elevating their visibility across QT and Visit Qatar platforms. This recognition provides a valuable marketing opportunity for local establishments, positioning them to attract both international and local patrons.
At the launch, Omar al-Jaber, chief of Tourism Development at QT, said: “The launch of ‘Taste of Qatar’ represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to elevate Qatar’s culinary landscape and enhance the overall visitor experience. This initiative will not only raise the standard of dining across the country but also establish new benchmarks for service excellence, ensuring that Qatar’s restaurants are recognised globally for their quality and innovation.”
Panicos Ioannides, CEO at Ipsos, GCC, commented: “At Ipsos, we are proud to contribute our expertise in data-driven assessments to Taste of Qatar. By applying global benchmarking methodologies, we ensure that the evaluation process is rigorous and aligned with international best practices. Our approach provides restaurants with actionable insights that will drive service excellence and enhance the overall guest experience.”
Bahaa Barakat, managing director at Ipsos, added: “This programme equips restaurant operators with the tools needed to refine service delivery and operational processes. The insights generated will empower them to improve customer satisfaction, optimise operations, and continually enhance the dining experience.”
The Taste of Qatar programme covers a wide spectrum of dining categories, including fine dining, upscale casual, casual dining, quick service, premium cafés, quick service cafés, and food trucks.
The programme is a stepping stone for Qatar’s restaurants seeking global recognition in light of the recent Michelin Guide’s presence in Doha.

Officials at the launch of ‘Taste of Qatar” programme.