The long-term positive impact of the FIFA World Cup 2022 on Qatar’s brand recognition and infrastructure, an industry expert has said, will continue to attract high-end travellers.

Mosaad Moustafa Eleiwa, founder and managing director of Outing Qatar, told *Gulf Times that he expects a significant increase in discerning, high-end travellers drawn to the nation’s growing luxury offerings, which increasingly prioritise personalised and experiential journeys.

“Compared to the previous year, Qatar’s luxury offerings are now more established and refined,” he said. “Global awareness of Qatar as a luxury destination has continued to grow, solidified by sustained marketing efforts throughout 2024-25, which is likely to lead to more deliberate bookings from affluent travelers.”

Eleiwa highlighted that Qatar’s luxury tourism segments this winter season are expected to be more mature, sophisticated, and strategically focused on delivering tailored, high-quality experiences.

“The foundation laid by recent developments and high-profile events firmly positions Qatar as a premier destination for affluent travellers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and world-class hospitality,” he added.

Eleiwa said that this anticipated growth is buoyed by the ongoing global tourism recovery and Qatar’s deliberate and successful positioning as a luxury destination.

A key trend shaping Qatar’s luxury tourism landscape, he added, is the significant shift towards experiential luxury.

Beyond opulent accommodations, the nation is increasingly spotlighting unique and curated experiences that explore its heritage and natural beauty.

Eleiwa said that Qatar is actively showcasing its heritage, with attractions such as the Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif, and Katara Cultural Village providing authentic Qatari experiences.

He observed that wealthy travellers are showing keen interest in deep dives into Qatari heritage, including Bedouin traditions and modern cultural evolution, often facilitated through private tours and expert-led discussions.

He added that the country’s substantial investment in art and architecture also appeals to those with an appreciation for design.

Eleiwa noted that Qatar’ pleasant winter weather is ideal for luxury travellers seeking unique outdoor activities.

Desert safaris, dhow cruises, luxury yacht charters, and explorations of natural reserves such as Khor Al Adaid (the Inland Sea) are attracting significant interest.

High-end adventure offerings include private desert safaris with gourmet picnics, overnight glamping in bespoke camps, and private yacht charters, he added.

The growth of cruise tourism, with Doha serving as a flourishing regional hub and homeport, is expected to bring in a segment of luxury travellers seeking seamless, luxurious travel experiences that combine sea and land exploration, according to Eleiwa.

He said that Qatar continues to host a dynamic calendar of international events, covering sports such as Formula 1 and golf tournaments, business forums such as the Web Summit Qatar and Doha Economic Forum, and a variety of cultural festivals and exhibitions.

These events draw a high-spending demographic, with luxury travelers increasingly planning trips specifically to take advantage of VIP access and exclusive packages.

Eleiwa noted that Doha’s burgeoning culinary scene, underlined by Michelin-starred fine dining and diverse international options, is a significant draw for luxury foodies.

The recent launch of the Michelin Guide has further boosted Doha’s profile as a gourmet destination, with affluent travellers actively seeking out selected restaurants and exclusive dining experiences.

He said that the convergence of these four key experiential categories – cultural immersion, adventure and nature, high-end events, and gourmet dining – is attracting significant interest among well-to-do travellers.

The ability to combine several of these interests into a seamless, curated itinerary is crucial for attracting and satisfying the high-end market in Qatar.

Eleiwa stressed that Qatar Tourism is also actively marketing the country as an ideal winter destination for both luxury travelers and families.

Streamlined visa facilitation measures, including visa-free travel for more than 100 countries, and strategic partnerships with airlines, particularly Qatar Airways, are making the nation highly accessible for international and regional luxury travellers.