'Qatar carves niche as premier luxury Eid destination'

Qatar’s 'carefully cultivated' blend of five-star accommodations, cultural landmarks, and seamless travel infrastructure is attracting a growing number of GCC and global travellers seeking a luxurious and authentic Eid celebration, an industry expert has said.

Speaking to Gulf Times, Outing Qatar founder and managing director Mosaad Moustafa Eleiwa highlighted the unique factors that set Qatar apart from other regional destinations, making it a magnet for tourists from the GCC and beyond.

“We are seeing a significant rise in bookings from Saudi tourists and travellers from other regions who are drawn to Qatar for its combination of luxury, cultural authenticity, and family-friendly offerings,” he said.

According to Eleiwa, Qatar’s commitment to cultural preservation, coupled with its lavish offerings, has carved out a distinct niche in the competitive tourism market. Heavy investments in five-star hotels and resorts, such as the iconic Raffles and Fairmont, offer exceptional service, pristine beaches, and curated experiences that cater to high-end travelers seeking comfort and exclusivity.

He noted that the legacy of the FIFA World Cup 2022, which showcased Qatar’s ability to host large-scale events with efficiency and style, has further boosted its reputation as a premier luxury and leisure destination. Eleiwa underlined the importance of accessibility, saying it is a key factor driving Qatar's popularity. Hamad International Airport, paired with the extensive network of Qatar Airways, ensures seamless connectivity from GCC countries and other regions.

“Eid holidays have become peak travel periods for GCC tourists. They are drawn by Qatar’s wide range of activities, entertainment programmes, and vibrant cultural venues like Souq Waqif, Katara Cultural Village, West Walk, and Lusail Boulevard, in addition to our iconic shopping malls,” he pointed out.

He added that Qatar’s diverse year-round programming, catering to interests ranging from sports and art to culture and business, ensures there’s “something for everyone”. Eleiwa said the infrastructure allows visitors to experience a multitude of flavours in a single day, from luxurious sea experiences to exhilarating dune bashing or immersive cultural encounters, often capped off with dazzling firework displays.

“Global visitors are increasingly embracing the adventure activities, sea experiences, and cultural vibes,” Eleiwa noted. “We are currently handling multiple bookings from GCC and international clients for luxury car rentals, yacht charters, and safari experiences. The blend of sea, sand, and city tours creates truly memorable experiences for families”.

He stressed that a collaborative approach between Qatar Tourism and private tourism entities is further elevating the bar. The unified vision is driving Qatar’s tourism strategy towards the goal of acquiring more than six million visitors.

The hospitality sector has meticulously curated a range of experiences, from luxury stays and gourmet dining to cultural events and planned indoor and outdoor family entertainment, ensuring Eid tourists enjoy a seamless and unforgettable celebration, Eleiwa said.

He cited the streamlined visa-on-arrival policy and improved travel infrastructure’s importance, which significantly enhanced Qatar’s appeal. “This simplified process has contributed to a marked rise in hotel occupancy rates during Eid holidays”.

Eleiwa said Qatar boasts also advanced and convenient public transportation: the efficient metro network that connects the airport with key tourist areas like the Corniche, Katara Cultural Village, Lusail Boulevard, and The Pearl-Qatar. Metrolink buses enhance accessibility by providing connections to metro stations.

The noticeable rise in private jet bookings and luxury transport services underscores Qatar's growing reputation as a premier destination for high-end travelers during Eid, offering both convenience and exclusivity, he said.

“These guests have multiple previous experiences visiting the country during global events, whether it’s economic, sport, or adventurous ones,” Eleiwa said, noting the recent FIA World Endurance Championship event. “They are returning with their families to witness the beauty and luxury experiences Qatar has to offer”.