Tourism
Qatar has emerged as an iconic hub for tourism, art and culture, combining rich Arab heritage with modern experiences that connect visitors from across the world.
As a country located between East and West, about 80% of the world’s population lives within a 6-hour flight, and nationals from over 95 countries can enter Qatar visa-free. National carrier Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport are consistently ranked among the world’s best airlines and airports.
Tourism in Qatar continues its upward trajectory, having welcomed over 5 million visitors in 2024. The tourism sector now contributes 8% to Qatar’s GDP, reflecting the industry’s robust growth and its vital role in economic diversification. This achievement underscores Qatar’s success in positioning itself as a premier global destination.
Cruise tourism in Qatar is also a vital and rapidly growing sector, with Doha port welcoming top international cruise lines such as MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises. The increasing number of arrivals each year reflects Qatar’s rising prominence as a premier regional cruise hub.
Tourism in Qatar
The tourism sector is one of the most important pillars of Qatar’s economic diversification and is integral to sustaining its economic growth.
Qatar Tourism, the official tourism governing body, carries out five core functions to strengthen the country’s status as a gateway to the world:
- Strategic planning and policy development.
- Developing and implementing a comprehensive plan to promote investment opportunities in the tourism sector.
- Destination marketing and promotion for both leisure and business events.
- Enhancing the visitor experience in collaboration with tourist-facing entities.
- Managing regulatory affairs, including the swift and efficient execution of all tourism licenses and similar services.
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Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030
To further develop the tourism sector in the State of Qatar, a National Tourism Sector Strategy was developed, aimed to be fully implemented by 2030.
Aiming to attract 6 million visitors annually by 2030, Qatar’s strategy focuses on several key areas that reflect the country’s commitment to strengthening the tourism sector, such as:
- Cultivating a rich collection of museums and cultural highlights.
- Hosting world-class conventions and exhibitions.
- Constructing exceptional urban developments.
- Bringing a plethora of sporting events to the country.
- Promoting outstanding educational opportunities at world-class universities.
- Building a new, ultramodern airport and one of the world’s most advanced rail transit systems.