Qatar gets 3.2mn visitors until Aug, 26% more than last year

Qatar welcomed 3.2mn visitors by August this year, highlighting the nation’s rising status as a premier family-friendly destination, Qatar Tourism (QT) chairman HE Saad bin Ali al-Kharji said.In his World Tourism Day 2024 statement, al-Kharji, also chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, noted that this remarkable growth aligns with Qatar’s vision to position itself as one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the region, aiming to attract 6mn annual visitors by 2030.QT’s latest figure marks a 26% increase compared to the same period last year. Such achievement, he said, also demonstrates QT’s aim to further increase the sector’s contribution to the GDP from 7% to 12%.Al-Kharji said this development forms part of the nation’s broader economic diversification efforts as outlined in the recently unveiled Third National Development Strategy for 2024-2030."As we commemorate World Tourism Day 2024 under the theme ‘Tourism and Peace,’ we recognise that tourism is more than just a means of exploration; it is a powerful catalyst for transformation,” he said.Al-Kharji credited the wise leadership of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani for the country’s progress and stressed that the tourism sector is central to Qatar’s economic development strategy.He said tourism’s role extends beyond economic benefits, noting that it fosters cultural exchange and understanding – crucial for bridging divides and nurturing a sense of pride within the local community.The strategic focus on enhancing Qatar’s reputation as a leading family tourism destination is complemented by efforts to leverage the country’s rich cultural heritage and develop innovative attractions, al-Kharji added."We have been strategically planning and establishing a governance framework while attracting distinguished tourism professionals to shape the next stages of our journey. In doing so, we have established Visit Qatar as the main arm responsible for marketing and promoting Qatar Tourism."We remain committed to achieving our objectives through integrity, effective teamwork, and continuous innovation. Our success is rooted in our dedication to service excellence, transparency, and collaborative efforts,” he said.Al-Kharji underlined the progress achieved by Qatar in establishing itself as a major sports hub, further boosting its tourism profile. He said the successful hosting of high-profile events such as the FIFA World Cup 2022, the AFC Asian Cup 2023, and the Qatar Grand Prix underscores the country’s growing influence in global sports tourism.In addition, al-Kharji said advancements in medical tourism and a robust Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions sector, which features 128 venues and 70,000 sqm of exhibition space, are diversifying the country’s tourism offerings.He highlighted Qatar’s commitment to global cultural connectivity, pointing out the country’s role as a melting pot of more than 100 nationalities. Recognised as one of the safest countries globally, Qatar leverages its welcoming environment to promote peace and understanding. Events like the Qatar International Food Festival, al-Kharji said, proves the country’s dedication to showcasing diverse culinary traditions and fostering cross-cultural engagement.He thanked public and private sector partners for their contributions in advancing sustainable tourism: "Your commitment to diversifying services, encouraging innovation, and maintaining high service helps to strategically place Qatar on the international tourism landscape as a leading world-class destination”.