QT summer campaign attracts surge of visitors

Qatar Tourism's (QT) 'Your Summer Starts Here' campaign is witnessing a surge in popularity with a noticeable rise in visitors, particularly from neighbouring GCC countries, according to an industry expert.

Speaking to Gulf Times, Tawfeeq Travel Group CEO Rehan Ali Syed highlighted the campaign’s ability to showcase the country as a year-round destination, offering a range of activities beyond the traditional winter season.

“Qatar has got it all - right from beautiful beaches and resorts to various outdoor attractions. As of now, there are 39,000 room keys available with the best of the hotels in Qatar, attracting the GCC families especially from Saudi to take a short break,” he said.

Syed noted that QT’s latest campaign caters to families with its several attractions such as 30,000sqm Inflata City at the Qatar National Convention Centre. Dubbed the world’s largest indoor inflatable event, this massive indoor activation provides exceptional entertainment for various age groups and a suitable place to beat the summer heat.

The campaign video features Bahraini influencer Omar Farooq and Qatari athlete Mutaz Barshim exploring Qatar's curated summer offerings during a 24-hour Doha adventure.

Syed pointed out that the campaign’s focus on diverse activities guarantees something for everyone, ensuring widespread appeal and success.

He underlined the appeal of Qatar’s luxurious beaches and the newly opened Meryal Waterpark at Qetaifan Island, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. He also points to promotions at Hilton Salwa, offering transportation to the resort and various water activities.

“The new beaches with water parks will be most appealing as shopping is the same in GCC countries,” said Syed, noting that Tawfeeq Travel Group is actively promoting staycations, encouraging residents to explore the offerings within Qatar.

He added that they are also leveraging the campaign through social media and promoting it in key markets such as India, Iran and Saudi Arabia.

According to Syed, the campaign’s focus on extending Qatari vacations is also being embraced, with expatriates and citizens choosing to stay in Qatar due to high flight prices and the desire to avoid travel crowds.

He also cited emerging travel trends, specifically the growing appeal of destinations like Japan, Korea and Sweden among younger generations.

“You need visitors to have activities all year round for all different age groups. Qatar is very focused under the leadership of QT, chairman HE Saad al-Kharji, to bring in more people with several activities around the year.

“The next cruising season will start from October, hence, with all the summer activities and upcoming season will make Qatar as a destination for summer especially with GCC residents and citizens,” Syed added.