Outbound travels fuels consumer spending in Qatar

The large demand for outbound travel from Qatar this summer has been driving higher consumer spending, which, in turn, helps stimulate the local economy, a veteran travel industry player has said.

“In terms of outbound travels, this is the season; around 50% to 60% of shoppers during this period are travelling back home, so you’ll certainly see an increase in consumer spending,” Rehan Ali Syed told Gulf Times. During the summer season, major hypermarkets and malls record an uptick in footfall, mostly from expatriates buying gifts for their families before going on their annual leave, according to the country head of Al Tawfeeq Travel.“The large volume of shoppers benefits many people, as well as the country because people are spending money, so this increase in spending appetite helps stimulate the economy,” he said.Aside from home countries, Syed noted that Europe and the US are the frequent destinations of holidaymakers from Qatar.“During summer, London and Paris are popular destinations. Also, the US has picked up very well. There are also a lot of holidaymakers going to Lebanon and to nearby destinations like Georgia, which is good for a five-day to a week-long trip. “But for Qataris, they prefer long holidays, hence they travel to European destinations for a three or four-week vacation, with the UK as the leading destination, as well as France,” he pointed out.He added: “Because the US gives multiple entry visas, it is very accessible, especially during times when people don’t get their interviews with the consulate on time for their travels to Europe, so the US is a prime destination, as well.”Conversely, the cooler months from October to April are considered inbound season in Qatar, which is also a period of increased spending appetite for both residents and tourists, according to Syed.“The outdoors is really very good over here during the winter season, and many tourists love the weather in Qatar during this period,” he said.According to Syed, Qatar’s beaches and sand dunes are very popular among tourists, aside from other destinations like the museums, Souq Waqif, and other touristic areas across the country.“The cooler months also welcome the arrival of many cruise ships to Qatar, which also adds to the volume of visitors. The government’s recent decision to give visa on arrival to as many as 80 countries also encourages demand for inbound travel to Qatar,” he added.