Tourism opportunities between Qatar and Georgia ‘immense’

The post-FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and post Covid-19 pandemic period provides tourism opportunities between Qatar and Georgia as both countries continue to witness a growing number of visitors due to their unique offerings, Georgian ambassador Nikoloz Revazishvili has said.The envoy told Gulf Times that in the last few years, Georgia has become one of the most popular tourist destinations for Qatar residents, spending their "holiday vacations in Georgia and many plan to do so this winter”.He said the easy and simple visa arrangements, Georgia’s proximity to and from Qatar, and Georgia’s beautiful nature, charming contrasts, different climates, and a wide variety of historic, cultural and culinary offerings make it a favourite destination for both Qatari citizens and residents."Qatari citizens or QID holders can travel to Georgia without visas. Second, Georgia is very close geographically and it takes just close to three-and-a-half hours to get to Tbilisi on a direct fl ight. Qatar Airways operates daily direct fl ights to Tbilisi,” Revazishvili pointed out.He said the number of visitors from Qatar to Georgia in 2022 increased by 27.5% compared to 2021, noting that Georgia has removed all Covid-19 regulations, not only in terms of entering Georgia, but also inside the country starting from June 2022. According to Revazishvili, the 2023 Freestyle Ski and Snowboard World Championship, which will be held in Bakuriani from February 19 to March 5, will see a huge number of foreign visitors coming to Georgia.He said a total of 30 medal events are on the programme, with 16 being contested in the freestyle ski disciplines and 14 in snowboarding. "Thousands of international guests from 42 countries – athletes, offi cial representatives – are already registered to attend this event in Bakuriani. On the sidelines of the championship, various interesting entertainment events are scheduled, so the visitors can enjoy unforgettable experiences while visiting this beautiful ski resort,” Revazishvili said.He noted that Qatar, on the other hand, successfully hosted the World Cup last year and the prestigious tournament puts the country in the spotlight internationally, underlining its capacity to host and organise international sport events of such magnitude. "Qatar ‘Delivered Amazing’. Many Georgian citizens visited Qatar during the World Cup and everyone left Qatar with positive feelings and a desire to return as tourists."Qatar represents one of the growing tourist destinations for Georgia, especially for family travellers. You can find everything in Qatar – rich history and cultural experience, amazing local and international cuisine, amazing hotels and resorts, nice beaches, shopping and etc. I am sure we will witness significant growth in tourism in coming years in both destinations – Tbilisi and Doha,” the envoy said.