Visit Qatar concludes successful participation at WTM Africa 2025 in Cape Town
Visit Qatar concluded its participation at WTM Africa 2025, held from April 9-11 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, with notable recognition by receiving the award for the Most Innovative Stand.
The delegation featured nine key partners from Qatar's travel and hospitality sectors including Qatar Airways, Discover Qatar, Experience Qatar, Al Messila Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Doha, Ali Bin Ali Travel and Tourism, Marsa Malaz Kempinski, Radisson Blu Hotel Doha, Satguru Travel and Tours, and Tawfeeq Holidays.
Qatar's stand drew strong interest from international trade professionals and media, showcasing the country's cultural richness, world-class hospitality, and year-round event calendar. Highlights included an augmented reality photo booth featuring animals symbolic of Qatar's natural heritage and an interactive Qatar Calendar booth spotlighting the country's events and experiences.Through a series of high-level meetings, Visit Qatar engaged with key African travel stakeholders to promote Qatar as a preferred destination and strengthen collaborations across priority markets in the region.
For media-related inquiries, please contact Visit Qatar's Press Office on:pressoffice@visitqatar.qa
About Visit Qatar
Visit Qatar is the main arm of Qatar Tourism. Visit Qatar's mission is to promote and expand tourism in Qatar by cultivating its rich culture, developing thrilling attractions, enhancing Qatar's calendar, becoming the leading MICE destination in the region, diversifying events and luxury experiences. Visit Qatar is rooted in Service Excellence, boosting the entire tourism value chain, and increasing local and international visitor demand in Qatar. Through Visit Qatar's network of international offices in priority markets, cutting-edge digital platforms, and marketing campaigns, Visit Qatar is expanding Qatar's presence globally and enhancing the tourism sector.
Web: www.visitqatar.com
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
What's On
a day ago
- What's On
8 places to experience your favourite travel destinations in the UAE
Jet set, stay put… No flights? No problem. From a Santorini escape to a Broadway night out, we've found global getaways hiding in plain sight for you – right here in the UAE. Here are 8 places to experience your favourite travel destinations in the UAE this summer. Chicago, USA: The Butcher and Still, Four Seasons Abu Dhabi Hotel A Chicago steakhouse in Abu Dhabi? That's exactly what The Butcher & Still delivers – but with the finesse you'd expect from the Four Seasons. As you descend into this Prohibition-era venue, the transformation is instant with a roaring Twenties soundtrack that would make Al Capone nod in approval. The menu is pure Windy City energy – dry-aged beef, Kansas City strip loins, and a wedge salad you'll need two hands to tackle. What really makes the place sing, though, is The Hideaway – a secret underground dining room accessible via a private elevator, that feels like you're entering a gangster's vault. Dimly lit, richly detailed, and effortlessly cool, it's a dining experience that plays the nostalgia card hard – and wins . Dress sharp, order a Manhattan, and let the immersive magic do the rest. @butcherandstill Lima, Peru: COYA Abu Dhabi COYA is what happens when Peruvian soul food, high-end hospitality, and serious swagger converge. This Abu Dhabi outpost of the global COYA brand is one of the city's most vibrant destinations, and it's got the awards to prove it. As soon as you enter, it's a Latin American explosion – colour, sound, spice. The menu includes ceviches, charred anticuchos, perfectly-grilled meats, and cocktails that balance fire and flair (hello, pisco sour). Artworks line the walls, live DJ sets pulse through the evenings, and there's a bar culture here that deserves its own passport. They even have their own playlist – just try not to Shazam everything between bites (we tried – and failed). It's the kind of place you start with dinner and end with dancing, all while feeling like you've stumbled into a chic Lima lounge party. If you can't fly to South America, this might be the next best thing. @coyaabudhabi Cape Town, South Africa: Flamingo Room by tashas Flamingo Room doesn't whisper luxury – it roars it. Located at Jumeirah Al Naseem in Dubai and The Galleria Al Maryah Island in Abu Dhabi, it's the ultimate ode to African elegance with just the right splash of maximalism. From the oversized animal sculptures to the pink velvet chairs and the gold-leaf finishes, the space is meticulously curated – every surface has a story, every detail a wink to the wild. The menu blends global chic with South African roots. Think king crab tagliatelle, burrata with heirloom tomatoes, and seriously good cocktails that come dressed to impress. And then there's Collective Africa, the in-house concept store that offers everything from curated fashion to décor pieces that make a statement. Come for the Instagram shots, stay for the details, and leave with a shopping bag full of 'souvenirs'. @flamingoroomae New York, USA: Broadway Brasserie & Bar, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental What if Manhattan's theatre district met Middle Eastern opulence? That's exactly the mash-up on offer at Broadway Brasserie & Bar, the glittering, jazz-hands-worthy venue inside the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. From exposed brick and dramatic lighting to actual stage performances in the private dining theatre, it's a place where your dinner comes with a spotlight. The menu fuses classic American and European brasserie favourites, from seared scallops and short ribs to truffled mac and cheese. It's comfort food – but make it couture. The bar plays with cocktail classics (with a Broadway twist, of course), and live entertainment fills the air with Broadway bops and classy cabaret. Whether you're here for a romantic date, a night out, or just to feel a little fabulous, the energy is infectious. Dress up, grab a cocktail called 'The Curtain Call,' and prepare to be entertained from appetiser to encore. @ Santorini, Greece: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat Think you need a Schengen visa for a Greek island fix? Think again. Less than an hour outside Abu Dhabi, off Exit 399, sits one of the most jaw-dropping resort properties in the country: Anantara Santorini Abu Dhabi Retreat. With its blinding white architecture, infinity pools, and Aegean-style serenity, it's the Greek escape you didn't know was just a road trip away. This boutique, adults-only haven has just 22 rooms, each one designed with minimalistic luxury and beach-facing tranquility. Many suites open directly onto the sand, giving you that barefoot-luxury vibe with Arabian Gulf views. The restaurants, Oia and Thalassa, serve Mediterranean fine dining with a UAE twist, while Anantara Spa offers everything from Thai massages to Greek olive oil facials. Time slows down, emails can wait, and sunset comes with a side of serenity. Bucket list-worthy? 100 per cent. @anantarasantorini Bangkok, Thailand: Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Hotel A grand hotel with Thai soul, Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi delivers a staycation with depth – and a whole lot of décor. From the moment you arrive, a wave of calm rolls over you: orchids everywhere, soothing music, and a signature scent wafting through the lobby that could make even your most stressful day melt away. Rooms are plush, spacious, and drenched in Thai design, but the real reason to visit is Benjarong – their fine-dining Thai restaurant that's a favourite with in-the-know locals. Expect intricately-presented dishes, ingredients flown in from Bangkok, and service that feels like a gentle art form. You'll also want to carve out time for the Namm Spa, which pairs Thai wellness traditions with modern treatments (don't skip the Thai herbal compress massage or the Hammam). It's a tranquil temple to Thai hospitality – no jet lag, just jasmine tea and good vibes. @dusitthaniabudhabi Polynesia: Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts What is Polynesia, anyway? Wikipedia tells us it is 'a subregion of Oceania, made up of over 1,000 islands scattered over the central and southern Pacific Ocean.' And that sounds about right. Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection makes you want to stop and stare the second you get there. Then, you're inclined to hop on a golf cart and take a tour of the sprawling resort, while you take in all of its Polynesian grandeur that's reflected in everything from motifs and design like wooden carvings and lava stone, to natural wood and bamboo materials, as well as an open, almost garden-like layout that will have you flagging down buggies for the fun of it. The theme continues in their restaurants Kalea and Hikina, and ingredients like coconut, pineapple and oceanic fare really up the islander factor here. Great for weddings. @lapitahoteldubai Giza, Egypt: Wafi City, Dubai You can't miss Wafi City – literally. The pyramid-shaped structure looms over the Al Jadaf area of Dubai like a beacon of ancient Egyptian grandeur, complete with towering obelisks, temple-style facades, and wall carvings that pay homage to the dynasties of old. Inside, Wafi City is a bustling hybrid of a shopping centre, hospitality hub, and cultural playground. From fashion boutiques and Egyptian-themed restaurants to the recently-revamped Wafi Gourmet, there's something here for every pharaoh wannabe. There's even a spa offering ancient Egyptian-inspired treatments, because why shouldn't you feel like Cleopatra on a Tuesday? @waficitydubai Provence, France: French Village, Riverland Dubai Tucked inside Riverland Dubai is a whimsical pocket of France that looks like it's been lifted straight out of a storybook. The French Village is designed to mirror 16th century Dijon – cobblestoned paths, crooked alleyways, rustic stone buildings, and all. There's a river running through it, and the entire area is peppered with charming cafes, street performers, boutique shops, and accordion music that feels straight out of a Parisian rom-com. It's ridiculously photogenic, especially during golden hour, and perfect for a slow meander, or a cheese platter. On cooler nights, the whole place comes alive with live acts, markets, and even themed festivals. It's charming, theatrical, and delightfully French – minus the airport queues and exchange rates. It's basically Provence with parking. @riverlanddubai Images: What's On archive With contributions from Laura Coughlin
Tourism Breaking News
2 days ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Qatar eyes greater role @ ITB China 2026 after strong showing in 2025: Visit Qatar
Post Views: 70 Jassim AlMahmoud – PR & Communications Director – Visit Qatar in a special interview with TravTalk ME shared that their presence at ITB China 2025 was most successful and their intention to expand their presence next year with the positive feedback received as they participated for the first time. 'ITB China is a very important event for us for two key reasons: first, the exceptional quality and professionalism associated with the ITB brand; and second, the high caliber of exhibitors and potential partners participating in the show. We are here to build meaningful partnerships, but most importantly, to deepen our engagement with the Chinese market—which we consider a Tier 1 source market for Qatar. This is my first visit to China, and already it is clear that the country offers immense opportunities. China's vast population and its growing appetite for international tourism make it a key focus in our global tourism strategy. But to truly attract Chinese travellers, we must understand their preferences and expectations. We've already identified that gastronomy, shopping, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions are particularly appealing to Chinese tourists. Fortunately, Qatar can offer all of these. From luxury shopping and world-class cuisine to rich heritage and attractions suited for travelers of all ages, we are confident in our ability to cater to Chinese guests. We are seeing solid growth from this market. For example, in 2023 we welcomed 56,000 Chinese visitors, and in 2024 we've recorded a 28% increase—a clear sign of rising interest. To support this momentum, we are actively expanding our partnerships. We brought 10 partners from Doha with us to ITB China this year. And based on what we've experienced here, we're seriously considering expanding our presence next year. The market potential is undeniable, and the hospitality we've received reinforces the importance of being here. To better serve Chinese travellers, we've already taken practical steps: We have representative offices in Shanghai and Beijing. We currently have 35 Chinese-speaking tour guides, soon increasing to 45, including both full- and part-time staff. Many of our hotels now offer Chinese-speaking staff and Chinese cuisine. Visitors from China enjoy visa-free access to Qatar, which significantly eases travel. We are exploring training initiatives similar to those launched by other countries, such as tailored cultural and language programs for frontline tourism staff.' Speaking on connectivity he shared, 'On the connectivity front, Qatar Airways operates 61 flights per week to 8 major Chinese cities, in addition to services offered by three Chinese carriers—Xiamen Airlines, China Eastern, and Air China. We're in ongoing discussions to further increase this number, pending regulatory developments. The relationship between China and Qatar is strong at both the governmental and cultural levels. This mutual understanding is reflected in our visa policies and bilateral cooperation. Looking ahead, while language can still be a barrier, we are leveraging AI tools and professional translation services, and considering further steps to make our destinations more accessible—such as enhancing signage and information in Chinese. To conclude, China is a top-priority market for Qatar Tourism. ITB China has been a valuable platform, and based on our first-hand experience here, I am confident that our post-event report will strongly recommend an even larger presence next year. We are committed to building long-term relationships and delivering an outstanding experience for every Chinese traveller visiting Qatar.'
Arabian Post
3 days ago
- Arabian Post
Adesina Urges Successor to Champion Africa's Financial Autonomy
Dr Akinwumi Adesina, nearing the conclusion of his decade-long presidency at the African Development Bank , has called upon his successor to prioritise Africa's financial sovereignty and ensure the continent's interests are robustly defended on the global stage. This appeal comes as the AfDB prepares to elect a new leader during its annual meeting in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, on 29 May. The incoming president will assume office amid significant challenges, notably the proposed $555 million reduction in funding from the United States to the AfDB and its concessional arm, the African Development Fund . This funding shortfall presents a critical test for the new leader, who must navigate the financial gap by potentially persuading the U.S. to restore its support, soliciting contributions from other nations such as China, Saudi Arabia, or the UAE, or increasing funding from African member states. Five candidates are vying for the presidency: Swazi Tshabalala of South Africa, Amadou Hott of Senegal, Samuel Munzele Maimbo of Zambia, Sidi Ould Tah of Mauritania, and Abbas Mahamat Tolli of Chad. Each brings a distinct vision for the bank's future. Tshabalala emphasises internal restructuring to enhance focus on infrastructure and innovation in financial instruments. Hott advocates for African financial self-reliance by improving revenue mobilisation and facilitating private-sector investments. Maimbo focuses on intra-African trade, regulatory streamlining, and a unified development approach across the continent. Ould Tah prioritises economic sovereignty, capital mobilisation, formalising Africa's informal sector, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. Tolli proposes enhanced governance, risk pooling, and digital finance mechanisms to curb resource mismanagement and promote self-sufficiency. ADVERTISEMENT Adesina's tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including increasing the bank's capital base from $93 billion to $318 billion and implementing initiatives that have impacted over 515 million lives across Africa. Under his leadership, the AfDB has invested over $55 billion in infrastructure, making it the largest multilateral financier of African infrastructure. The bank has also prioritised healthcare, committing $3 billion in quality healthcare infrastructure and another $3 billion for pharmaceutical development, including establishing the Africa Pharmaceutical Technology Foundation. As he prepares to step down, Adesina has urged his successor to continue advocating for Africa's interests, particularly in the face of global financial shifts and challenges. He emphasised the importance of including Africa's natural capital—oil, gas, minerals, biodiversity, carbon—into GDP calculations to enhance borrowing power and stressed the need for financial independence amid reduced Western aid. Adesina also highlighted the exploitation of African forests for cheap carbon credits, advocating for fair valuation of Africa's carbon sequestration resources.
