The Qatar government’s timely and phased approach in reopening theme parks and other recreational activities in the country further raised patrons’ level of confidence to try unique offerings in a safe environment, it is learnt.
Some of these theme parks include Angry Birds World, Virtuocity and SnowDunes at Doha Festival City (DHFC) – owned and operated by Leisure, a 100% Qatari company – which reopened on January 11 amid the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as some new and positive developments in the region.





“Guests have been asking over the past months about the opening dates and expressing their wishes to a near opening across all our social media portals,” Leisure’s Marketing head Miral Mourad told Gulf Times.
“Once the opening was announced our fans were very eager to be the first in our parks. We really appreciate the continued support that we received from our fans, DHFC, and the Qatar government that never stopped even during the shutdown,” she said.
Due to a number of protocols set by the Ministry of Public Health’s, Mourad noted that people now see a significant decrease in Covid-19 cases, “leading to gradual lifting of restrictions yet maintaining the safety measures requested.” 
“This will lead to a new norm and a boost in the economy, attracting not only domestic but also international guests from all over the world,” she said, adding that their theme parks have received a positive response from both regular and new guests since the first day of the reopening.
“Our theme parks will adhere to the most stringent Covid-19 safety measures to ensure visitors can entertain with peace of mind and in the safest of environments. All staff across the theme parks have received thorough training and will adhere to a number of protocols,” Mourad added.
Despite the challenges brought about by the outbreak, Mourad stressed that they fully supported the efforts of the government in executing the necessary measures to protect its people from Covid-19, believing “it was for a greater good.” 
About the future of Qatar as a leisure and family destination post Covid-19 pandemic, she said the country – which will host the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Asian Games in 2030 – has all the traits to be in this position since its tourism infrastructure is continuously developing.
“Qatar has history, scenery, modern technology and welcoming people which puts it as a top destination for any traveller looking for an exceptional experience. On our part, Leisure parks – Angry Birds World, Virtuocity and SnowDunes – are the number one entertainment hub and brings the latest in the world of entertainment not only to Qatar but also to the region,” Mourad said. “Leisure partners with top globally recognised brands to meet its vision of providing world class experiences which coincides with Qatar National Vision 2030.”
Leisure also added new attractions to its parks such as the Vcube, VMajlis, and Party Zone at Virtuocity (first dedicated eSports arena in the Middle East); and Castle Climbing, Snow Spin, and Snow Ring at SnowDunes.

Safety protocols in place at Leisure’s theme parks

  Mandatory Ehteraz app checks at the entrance to theme parks for all visitors except children, with only green code holders allowed to enter 
  Temperature checks will also be carried out at the entrance to the parks, and any individual with temperature exceeding 38C will be denied entry to the site 
  Wearing medical masks will be required as well, and visitors will have to maintain a safe distance of two metres minimum 
  Theme parks employees will oversee the respect of social distancing, supported by signs installed across the parks reminding visitors about social distancing and PPR wearing requirements
 All rides, attractions and infrastructure of theme parks will be continuously sanitised and hand sanitising stations will be installed throughout the parks’ areas