Qatar distinguishes itself from its regional neighbours by actively establishing a thriving cultural hub, HE the Chairman of Qatar Tourism (QT) and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar al-Baker has said in an interview with Qatar News Agency.
"By emphasising the importance of cultural development and showcasing our diverse heritage, we have successfully developed Qatar as a cultural destination and a global centre for arts, literature and innovation," he said in response to a question on Qatar Tourism's strategy to attract visitors from other Gulf and Arab countries, and how Doha distinguishes itself from other cities in the region in terms of tourist attractions, offers and events.
With its shared cultural values, proximity and an array of premier assets and unique leisure and hospitality offerings, Qatar continues to be a highly attractive and popular world-class tourist destination for GCC visitors, especially from Saudi Arabia, HE al-Baker said.
He went on to explain that Qatar is an excellent choice for GCC visitors given its multiple points of entry by land, air and sea, adding that visitors enjoy Qatar's range of entertainment options that are fit for the whole family.
The country's recent and ongoing expansion of its hotels and tourism assets provide families from the region with new reasons to visit, as they realise there is more to see with each trip, he added.
He noted that in particular, Qatar proves to be a prime destination during national holidays and special occasions, adding that Qatar Tourism expects to see a strong influx of travellers during the upcoming Eid al-Adha holidays.
Regarding marketing campaigns to continue highlighting the appeal of Qatar as a tourist destination in the GCC, HE al-Baker said they have run initiatives such as the 'Feel Winter in Qatar' campaign. In addition, Qatar Tourism is increasing its participation in trade exhibitions in the region to highlight the most prominent tourist attractions in Qatar and the county's distinctive offers available to visitors.
He recalled that in late March this year, Qatar Tourism attended the 2023 Jeddah International Travel and Tourism Exhibition, marking Qatar's first formal activation in Saudi Arabia since 2017. Qatar Tourism also attended the Riyadh Travel Fair, further cementing its relationship with key trade and travel stakeholders.