Tourism in Qatar is set to soar with new partnerships designed to spotlight the destination’s facilities, talent and capabilities.
Soaring growth to Qatar’s economy predicted
The latest projections for Qatar’s travel and tourism industry paint a picture of unprecedented growth with the sector poised to contribute a record-breaking QAR 90.8 billion to the nation’s economy in 2024, as per the findings of the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR). This robust contribution accounts for 11.3% of the total economic output, underlining the sector’s pivotal role in Qatar’s economic landscape.
Building on the momentum from a stellar performance in 2023, the industry is set to create job opportunities for more than 334,500 individuals countrywide this year, representing a notable 15.8% of the workforce. Domestic spending is anticipated to reach QAR 12 billion while international travel spend forecasts indicate a staggering expenditure of QAR 69.6 billion, reflecting a promising outlook for both inbound and domestic tourism.
Looking ahead to 2034, Qatar is poised for further economic expansion with global tourism projected to contribute to 13% of the nation’s economy, elevating its annual GDP contribution to more than QAR 135 billion. This level of growth is likely to generate substantial employment opportunities, with forecasts suggesting the creation of nearly 458,000 new jobs, illustrating the sector’s potential to drive inclusive growth and prosperity across the country.
MotoGP and Qatar Airways accelerate partnership with multi-year pact
Qatar Airways is venturing full throttle into the world of MotoGP™ , announcing a multi-year partnership with the premier motorcycle racing series, cementing the airline’s position as an official partner for MotoGP both in passenger and cargo transportation services.
Under this partnership, Qatar Airways has secured exclusive rights to provide seamless travel solutions for MotoGP enthusiasts globally, meaning fans attending races will benefit from the airline’s commercial flights, ensuring convenient access to MotoGP events across continents. The airline will also streamline travel for teams with charter flights for championship personnel.
Trackside, Qatar Airways will be prominently displayed at various race venues throughout the race calendar. This strategic partnership comes after the successful sponsorship of Qatar Airways’ home race over the last couple of years, the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix in 2023 and 2024, underscoring its commitment to motorsport excellence.
Hamad International Airport celebrates 10 years
Doha’s Hamad International Airport (HIA) is turning 10! Opened on 27 May 2014 with the view of transforming Doha into an aviation hub serviced by Qatar Airways, HIA, along with its unmistakable mascot, the Lamp Bear, welcomed more than 45 million travellers in 2023.
With 44 airline partners, the airport enjoyed a 27.6% YoY increase in travellers in Q1 2024 and looks forward to plans including welcoming new airline partners, improved connectivity, enhanced sustainability efforts, and supporting Qatar’s endeavours to host various global events.
Named the World’s Best Airport 2024 at the Skytrax World Airport Awards in April, HIA was also awarded for the World’s Best Airport Shopping for the second year in a row; and the Best Airport in the Middle East for the 10th consecutive year.
