National Tourism Council

Qatar National Tourism – Driving Qatar’s Global Tourism Vision

1. Overview

Qatar National Tourism (QNT), also known as Qatar Tourism (QT), is the government entity responsible for developing, regulating, and promoting tourism in Qatar. It plays a crucial role in positioning Qatar as a world-class travel destination in alignment with Qatar National Vision 2030.

QNT works to attract international visitors, enhance the hospitality sector, and promote Qatar’s cultural, business, and sports tourism.

2. Key Goals & Strategy

Qatar National Tourism aims to:

  • Welcome 6 million visitors annually by 2030.
  • Diversify Qatar’s tourism sector beyond luxury and business travel.
  • Enhance visitor experience through new attractions, hotels, and services.
  • Promote Qatar globally through marketing campaigns and partnerships.

Targeted Tourism Sectors:

  1. Luxury & Leisure Tourism – High-end resorts, shopping, and desert experiences.
  2. Cultural & Heritage Tourism – Museums, souqs, and UNESCO sites.
  3. Sports & Event Tourism – FIFA World Cup 2022 legacy, Formula 1, and ATP Tennis.
  4. Business & MICE Tourism – Conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events.
  5. Eco & Adventure Tourism – Desert safaris, diving, and nature reserves.

3. Major Attractions & Experiences

Qatar Tourism promotes a diverse range of landmarks and activities to attract visitors:

1. Cultural & Heritage Sites

  • Souq Waqif – Traditional market with Qatari handicrafts and food.
  • National Museum of Qatar – Architectural masterpiece showcasing Qatar’s history.
  • Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) – Home to world-class Islamic art collections.
  • Al Zubarah Fort (UNESCO Site) – Preserved archaeological heritage site.

2. Modern Landmarks & Luxury Experiences

  • The Pearl-Qatar – Luxury island with yachts, boutiques, and fine dining.
  • Katara Cultural Village – A hub for arts, music, and cultural festivals.
  • Msheireb Downtown Doha – Smart city blending heritage with modernity.

3. Natural & Adventure Attractions

  • Inland Sea (Khor Al Adaid) – A UNESCO-recognized natural wonder.
  • Desert Safaris & Dune Bashing – Popular off-road adventure activities.
  • Banana Island Resort – A private island with beachside relaxation.
  • Scuba Diving & Pearl Diving Tours – Exploring Qatar’s marine life.

4. Sports & Mega Events

  • FIFA World Cup 2022 Legacy – Stadiums repurposed for tourism and local events.
  • Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix – Annual motorsport event at Lusail Circuit.
  • ATP & WTA Tennis Tournaments – Qatar Open events attracting global players.
  • Qatar MotoGP – High-profile motorcycle racing competition.

4. Hospitality & Tourism Infrastructure

Qatar’s hospitality industry is growing rapidly to support its tourism vision:

  • Expanding hotel capacity with new luxury, boutique, and eco-hotels.
  • Hamad International Airport (HIA) – Ranked among the world’s best airports, catering to millions of visitors.
  • Qatar Airways – A leading airline connecting Qatar to 160+ destinations.
  • Cruise Tourism Development – Doha Port expanding to welcome more cruise ships.

5. Qatar’s Global Tourism Promotion

Qatar Tourism is actively promoting the country through:

  • International Marketing Campaigns – « Feel More in Qatar » initiative.
  • Sponsorships & Global Partnerships – Collaborations with major events and brands.
  • Digital & Smart Tourism – AI-driven travel guides and virtual tours.
  • Visa Reforms – Qatar now offers visa-free entry to 95+ nationalities.

6. Future Plans & Vision

  • 2030 Goal: Make Qatar a top global destination with 6M annual visitors.
  • More Sustainable Tourism – Eco-resorts, conservation efforts, and green travel initiatives.
  • Attracting More International Events – Expanding Qatar’s role as a business and entertainment hub.

7. Conclusion

Qatar National Tourism is transforming Qatar into a world-class travel destination, balancing luxury, culture, adventure, and sustainability. With ambitious projects and global marketing, Qatar is set to become a leading tourism hub in the Middle East.