Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has announced the launch of a seafront tourism project that offers 100 investment opportunities for entrepreneurs.
Spread over 79,000 square metres (sqm) , the Doha Tourism Project is envisaged to be a tourist destination that is based on a marine theme and Qatar's heritage.
QDB's Project Management Office Planner Hamad Rashid al-Naimi said that the project offers entrepreneurs shops with competitive lease contracts ranging from one to three years. The shops' area varies from 25sqm to 200sqm.
He said applications from businessmen will be received from Sunday, through QDB's website, and the last date for submitting applications will be September 10. The names of the winners will be announced early November, and the project will kick off in the beginning of 2020.
The QDB official noted that the activities available in the project would range from shops selling fishing equipment, diving equipment, maintenance of boats and ports, and other crafts, sale of souvenirs as well as art galleries, photography exhibitions and food and beverage outlets.
He pointed out that to qualify, applications have to meet three conditions; the submitted idea has to be in connection with the heritage of Qatar, it has to be linked to marine life, and the proposal has to be distinctive or creative. He explained that the evaluation and selection of shops will start on September 10. The selection process may include personal interviews as well.
The successful businessmen will be given more than a year to prepare shop design, equipment and employment. They can choose appropriate funding, either from QDB or from another bank.
