Qatar’s cruise season, which at present is witnessing a spectacular growth, has ensured a steady multiplier effect to the country’s economy, thanks to Doha Port expansion and modernisation and the appurtenant arrival of large flotillas and more passengers.
"The cruise economy creates a larger economic impact," an analyst, who works with a leading investment firm, told Gulf Times.
Finding that the expansion of the cruise sector has been facilitated by the modernisation of cruise terminals to accommodate larger vessels while enhancing the overall visitor experience; he said these investments have enhanced the local economy, especially in areas like transportation and retail, creating new job opportunities and supporting ancillary businesses.
"The growth of the cruise industry is the result of a comprehensive strategic vision led by Qatar Tourism, in close collaboration with our partners at Mwani Qatar and our stakeholders. We remain committed to delivering an exceptional experience that embodies Qatar’s authentic hospitality and upholds the highest international
standards,” according to Omar Abdulrahman al-Jaber, Chief of Tourism
Development at Qatar Tourism.
The sector directly contributes to the GDP (gross domestic product) through tourist spending on goods and services as tours, transportation and retail purchases.
Additionally, it benefits from port fees, docking charges, and services purchased by cruise lines. The sector also has an indirect economic impact by creating demand for suppliers and ancillary services, thus boosting local businesses and further stimulating GDP growth.
"The sector’s contribution to GDP will increase in the coming years, supporting
Qatar’s economic diversification goals," the analyst said.
The country's 2025/26 cruise season, which started off this November on a strong
note, will feature 73 scheduled cruise calls, including four maiden calls to Doha Port.
The previous season witnessed with more than 396,000 visitors, reflecting a 5% year-on-year growth.
Although it has a history of less than a decade, Qatar’s cruise sector has grown tremendously and now contributes influentially to the national exchequer, according to experts in the field.
"There has been increasing preference for Qatar as a destination for both regular cruise calls and cruises with turnaround calls," an industry insider said.
Doha Port regularly hosts top international cruise lines, including MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Emerald Cruises, and TUI Cruises with live-ship tracking showing frequent vessel movements, reflecting the port’s growing importance as a regional hub.
Considering the pace of non-hydrocarbon sector, the analyst said cruise tourism can be a significant economic contributor to Qatar but long-term success hinges on policies that promote sustainability, and equitable sharing of the benefits of tourism among local communities.
Qatar’s cruise sector, which was established in 2016, has helped position Qatar as a popular destination for maritime tourism in the region. The growth of the industry supports Qatar’s economy through increased tourist spending, employment and business opportunities.
Cruise ships make money through two channels: Ticket sales and onboard purchases (beverages, spa treatments, art auctions, and shore excursions), which passengers pay for with pre-loaded cruise cards and chip-equipped wristbands.
On average, tickets account for more than 60% of total revenue and onboard purchases make up the remaining; even as the other school of thought is onboard purchases account for the lion’s share of the profit despite tickets representing a majority.
During the 2024/25 season, there were 15,000 embarkation and disembarkation and as many as 30,000 guests enjoyed a shorex experience with Discover Qatar, which is the destination management company of Qatar Airways.
Promoting Qatar’s cruise industry since 2015, Qatar has proven to be one of the most sought after luxury cruise destinations in the Arabian Gulf’s winter cruise season.
To support the tremendous growth of the industry, a new passenger terminal, opened in 2022. It offers passengers the same level of service and facilities as Hamad International Airport, including seamless immigration and customs, foreign exchange services, taxi and bus stands, Duty Free shops, a café, waiting areas for cruise passengers and staff, as well as city tours and other tourist information services.
Collaborative efforts by Qatar Tourism and local authorities including
Immigration, Customs and Mwani Qatar, have made the disembarkation process quick and hassle-free for passengers arriving at Doha Port, enabling them to start enjoying the destination’s tourism offerings without wasting any time.
The 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) highlights a vibrant and responsibly-growing global cruise sector.
Cruise ship travel has emerged as a new growth area across the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) and is playing a pivotal role in the transformation and diversification of regional economies, according to Knight Frank.
Industry leaders highlight short cruises are becoming a foundational strategy for regional growth.
In 2025, the global cruise industry is forecast to welcome 37.7mn ocean-going passengers and reach 310 ocean-going vessels.
The report also includes the latest trends, the significant global economic impact of cruising and the sustainability advancements that are leading the industry to a sustainable future.
