Qatar Plans to Open Up Tourism Sector Post-World Cup for Sustained Growth and Increased Visitor Influx

Qatar is set to loosen regulations in its tourism industry following the surge in visitor numbers since hosting the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Qatar Tourism’s chairman, expressed intentions to remove barriers and restrictions within the hospitality sector to facilitate growth during an interview in Dubai.

Despite initial concerns, Qatar’s tourism sector has flourished post-World Cup, with a notable 39% increase in visitors in 2023, reaching four million. The trend continued in 2024, with Doha recording a record 700,000 visitors in January during the AFC Asian Cup soccer tournament. Notably, about 44% of tourists originate from neighbouring Gulf nations, with significant increases from Europe, the US, and Asia.

Qatar, recognized for its prominence in global sports, including its ownership of Paris Saint-Germain and hosting various sporting events, now aims to diversify its tourist base beyond sports enthusiasts. Plans include attracting families, medical tourists, and business travelers through conferences and exhibitions, exemplified by events like the Qatar Economic Forum, Powered by Bloomberg.

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