Qatar’s tourism sector maintained its strong momentum in the first half of 2025, attracting more than 2.6 million international visitors between January and June — a 3% increase over the same period last year, according to the latest figures from Qatar Tourism.
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals accounted for 36% of arrivals, followed by visitors from Europe (26%), Asia and Oceania (22%), and 7% each from the Americas and other Arab countries. Arrivals were facilitated by Qatar’s multi-access entry strategy, with 57% entering by air, 33% by land, and 9% by sea.
Rising Hotel Performance
The country’s hospitality sector recorded a 71% average occupancy rate, up two percentage points year-on-year, with 5.23 million hotel nights sold — a 7% increase compared to H1 2024.
Tourism as an Economic Driver
Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Visit Qatar, said the results reflect the success of the country’s strategy to make tourism a pillar of economic diversification under National Vision 2030. In 2024, the sector contributed QR55bn ($15.1bn) to GDP — 8% of the economy — marking a 14% rise from 2023. Qatar remains on track to reach its Tourism Strategy 2030 target of raising tourism’s GDP share to 10–12%.
Global Campaigns and Events
In H1 2025, Visit Qatar launched major international campaigns, including the “Moments Made for You” summer drive targeting GCC and global markets, a promotional film featuring David Beckham, and expanded stopover packages in key markets such as the UK, USA, South Africa, China, and Australia.
These efforts coincided with large-scale events such as the Qatar Toy Festival (130,000+ visitors, up 12% y-o-y), Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, International Food Festival, and seasonal attractions like Ras Abrouq and whale shark tours.
Looking Ahead: A Packed Second Half
Qatar’s event calendar for the remainder of 2025 includes:
Launch of the 2025/2026 Cruise Season in November, after a record-breaking 87 ship calls and 360,000+ passengers last season.
T100 Triathlon World Championship Finals in Doha.
FIFA Arab Cup 2025.
Formula 1 Grand Prix 2025.
Qatar Tourism Awards 2025.
Launch of the Michelin Guide Doha 2026.
Commitment to Growth
Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said the strong H1 performance shows sustained momentum and growing confidence from regional and global markets. “We have attracted more visitors through a unique combination of major events, international campaigns, and innovative tourism products that cater to diverse interests,” he said.
Qatar aims to continue expanding its offerings, investing in marketing, and strengthening its position as a year-round global destination that blends authenticity with modernity — delivering world-class experiences for both residents and visitors.
Source: arabianbusiness.com
