Mall of Qatar (MoQ) witnessed a further boost in sales and business growth in various categories with the opening of Doha Metro’s Green Line last year, CEO Khaled Sam Hosn has said.
“The impact has been extremely positive on a number of fronts already, and we anticipate this to continue as MoQ is expected to receive a boost in footfall this year due to its proximity to the newly opened Doha Metro network. We are confident that this growth will continue,” he told Gulf Times, noting that the mall recorded a 25% increase in footfall on weekdays and 40% on weekends.


Easy access from Doha Metro's Al Riffa station to MoQ

Hosn said Doha Metro provides a significant and popular mode of transport for a large number of shoppers to reach the mall with ease, thanks to the quick connectivity.
The metro connection contributes to MoQ’s long-term strategy aimed at providing Doha residents, even those in Wakra for example, with easy access to the mall, he added.
“These include everything from fashion to fine dining, in minimal time and at a reasonable cost.”


MoQ CEO Khaled Sam Hosn

“Comfort is also a focus and as such, we invested in an air-conditioned connecting bridge to the metro station from the mall, which will be particularly beneficial for users during the hotter summer months. Our main focus is on the consumer experience and their comfort which has built great loyalty,” the CEO said.
“What was a challenge is now an opportunity, as the Metro is proving itself to be a motivating factor for people to visit the mall. We should also note that we are located next to one of World Cup 2022 Stadiums, which is another element we intend to leverage,” he said.
While such connection serves as an advantage in the ease at which consumers can visit the mall, Hosn stressed it is not the only enabler they will rely on as a business.
He said the mall’s “sophisticated visitors look to our architectural features” and its main attraction, the Oasis stage, surrounded by top notch restaurants where an array of events take place.
“Besides, there is a big community growing all around us. Our belief in Qatar’s vision has given us the confidence to embark on a major residential expansion that also includes the internationally renowned Sherborn School and a Theme Park,” Hosn said.
“This project, called Grand Zone at MoQ, is already underway. This will make this area a destination as it becomes more than a mall but a full community to life, shop and play. MoQ is playing a key role in its revival.”
As part of its long-term vision to be a major entertainment, food and beverage, and shopping destination, Hosn said MoQ will continue to host a wide range of shows and activations year-round in line with the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
“This is natural within our strategic plan. We intend to be one of the main attractions providing key facilities for football fans and are strategically located next to AlRayyan Stadium, one of the main stadiums for FIFA. We will be revealing our detailed plan ahead of the tournament,” he said.
Hosn lauded the Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC) for “doing an incredible job to activate tourism and hospitality.”
As Qatar focuses in diversifying its economy away from a total reliance on the oil and gas industry, he said its growing tourism sector plays a major role in boosting the economy.
Hosn cited QNTC’s efforts and solid forward planning, which witnessed more visitor arrivals to the country. These include new visa regulations allowing more than 80 nationalities to enter Qatar, new destinations and sites that tourists can enjoy, and a very reliable modern infrastructure.
“As a retailer partner, their efforts are deeply appreciated as they are making a direct impact on our business in a positive way, and MoQ is honoured to be one of the destinations that tourists and visitors want to experience during their stay here,” he said.
“The leadership of Qatar deeply invested in a strategy to diversify the economy, and tourism is one of the main sectors. This means that the government is dedicated to providing the very best in accommodation, attractions and services, coupled with suitable visa regulations and safety and security provisions,” Hosn noted.
He said Qatar is a unique country with an interesting cultural heritage which visitors can explore, through the many museums and attractions that promote art, heritage and creativity in and around the country.
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