Qatar gears up for Eid al-Fitr celebrations

With a wide range of hospitality and culinary offerings, concerts, and fun-filled activities, Qatar residents and visitors will have more reasons to celebrate the Eid al-Fitr holidays in the country.An official of a luxury hotel in Doha told Gulf Times that they have been witnessing an increasing number of bookings from Qataris, as well as nationals from neighbouring GCC countries especially Saudi Arabia, for the upcoming Eid break.She lauded Qatar Tourism’s vigorous ‘Feel Eid in Qatar’ campaign and other initiatives to entice more visitors to visit and experience a one-of-kind holiday in the country.Qatar Tourism recently announced that some of the region’s most popular artistes will take the centre stage and enthrall the audience for three days.These include Tamer Hosny, along with DJ Rouge, on April 21; Marwan Khoury and Najwa Karam on April 22; and "a trio of the genre’s most popular artists”: Qatar’s very own Fahad al-Kubaisi, recent winner of Saudi Idol ‘Hames’, and Emirati singer Balqees – who made her mark on the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 official soundtrack with ‘Light The Sky.’The Eid celebration in Qatar will also see fireworks displays at night, in addition to an array of wholesome and family-friendly events and activities.Citing a rise in demand for staycations this Eid, the hotel official said many families now opt to spend the holidays in Qatar than travelling abroad due to the presence of five star hotels and resorts across the country.It is learnt that Katara Hospitality-owned and operated hotels also recorded an increase in the number of bookings this Eid for staycations, where guests avail of discounts, promotions, and other deals on room rates and meals at their restaurants.The Eid holidays also provides an opportunity for both residents and visitors to explore and rediscover Qatar’s bourgeoning culinary scene and its iconic museums, popular tourism and cultural spots such as Souq Waqif, Msheireb Downtown Doha, The Pearl-Qatar, and Katara – the Cultural Village.An employee of a restaurant at Souq Waqif told Gulf Times that they have been extremely busy even after the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 since visitors keep coming back after the prestigious event."We had a very short break but because of the pleasant weather and the diverse food offering here, many people love to visit this place,” he said. Souq Waqif remains to be a popular destination for both locals and tourists as its restaurants, cafes, and several retails shops continue to receive a large number of customers, including this Ramadan period."A lot of families here and from Saudi Arabia come for Iftar and Suhoor, probably because this place has an amazing appeal. We hope to see more guests in the coming days since many people often travel during the Eid holidays,” he added.