Latest news with #AbdulazizAliAlMawlawi
Gulf Insider
08-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Qatar Bets On Sports To Hit 2030 Tourism Goal Ahead Of Schedule
Qatar spent billions of dollars preparing for the 2022 World Cup, betting that the global spotlight would spark a lasting tourism boom. Three years on, that gamble appears to be paying off. International tourist arrivals surged to 5.1 million last year, up 25 per cent from 2023. Nearly 2 million people have visited Qatar so far this year, fueling optimism among tourism officials that the gas-rich nation could surpass its targets ahead of schedule. 'Our target for 2030 was 6 to 7 million visitors, but I think we will achieve this number sooner,' said Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, chief executive officer of Visit Qatar, in an interview in Dubai last week. To help edge up numbers, the country aims to position itself as the 'capital of sports,' he said. Over the next few months, Qatar is set to hold events including the the biggest-ever edition of the Fifa U-17 World Cup, the 2025 Fifa Arab Cup, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit. 'We'll be announcing a very big event for late November in Doha,' Al Mawlawi said, declining to give further details other than that it would be a global one. The rise in visitor numbers could also help the Gulf nation reach its goal of having tourism contribute about 12% to gross domestic product '- potentially ahead of the 2030 target, he said. Get the Mideast Money newsletter, a weekly look at the intersection of wealth and power in the region. While major sporting events have attracted thousands of fans, Qatar is aiming to position itself as a year-round destination by appealing to families seeking affordable luxury. 'It's very safe, very clean, with high-quality hotels and fine dining at reasonable prices,' Al Mawlawi said. Qatar is also expanding its hotel and resort offerings, with a focus on conference and events infrastructure. Doha currently has around 40,000 hotel rooms, with more in development. Still, the country faces stiff competition in the region. Dubai remains the Middle East's dominant tourism hub, while Abu Dhabi has committed $10 billion to expanding its cultural and hospitality footprint. Saudi Arabia aims to draw 70 million foreign visitors annually by 2030, up from about 30 million in 2024. Rather than compete directly, Qatar is promoting multi-stop itineraries, partnering with neighbors including Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi to create joint campaigns. 'We're complementing each other,' Al Mawlawi said. Gulf Cooperation Council nationals made up 41 per cent of arrivals last year, with Saudi Arabia as the top individual source market. Key international sources include the UK, US, China, India and Germany. Qatar has opened tourism offices in 13 countries to broaden its outreach. However, the growth in Chinese and Indian demand has been hurt by limited air connectivity. 'Flights from India to Qatar and China to Qatar are almost at the capacity,' Al Mawlawi said. 'So, we are trying hard to increase the capacity, to increase the landing slots in those countries.'
National Post
07-05-2025
- Business
- National Post
Qatar positions itself as 'capital of sports' to hit 2030 tourism goal ahead of schedule
Qatar spent billions of dollars preparing for the 2022 World Cup, betting that the global spotlight would spark a lasting tourism boom. Three years on, that gamble appears to be paying off. Article content International tourist arrivals surged to 5.1 million last year, up 25% from 2023. Nearly 2 million people have visited Qatar so far this year, fueling optimism among tourism officials that the gas-rich nation could surpass its targets ahead of schedule. Article content 'Our target for 2030 was 6 to 7 million visitors, but I think we will achieve this number sooner,' said Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, chief executive officer of Visit Qatar, in an interview in Dubai last week. To help edge up numbers, the country aims to position itself as the 'capital of sports,' he said. Article content Article content Over the next few months, Qatar is set to hold events including the the biggest-ever edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit. Article content 'We'll be announcing a very big event for late November in Doha,' Al Mawlawi said, declining to give further details other than that it would be a global one. Article content The rise in visitor numbers could also help the Gulf nation reach its goal of having tourism contribute about 12% to gross domestic product — potentially ahead of the 2030 target, he said. Article content While major sporting events have attracted thousands of fans, Qatar is aiming to position itself as a year-round destination by appealing to families seeking affordable luxury. 'It's very safe, very clean, with high-quality hotels and fine dining at reasonable prices,' Al Mawlawi said. Article content Article content Qatar is also expanding its hotel and resort offerings, with a focus on conference and events infrastructure. Doha currently has around 40,000 hotel rooms, with more in development. Article content Still, the country faces stiff competition in the region. Dubai remains the Middle East's dominant tourism hub, while Abu Dhabi has committed $10 billion to expanding its cultural and hospitality footprint. Saudi Arabia aims to draw 70 million foreign visitors annually by 2030, up from about 30 million in 2024. Article content Rather than compete directly, Qatar is promoting multi-stop itineraries, partnering with neighbors including Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi to create joint campaigns. 'We're complementing each other,' Al Mawlawi said. Article content Gulf Cooperation Council nationals made up 41% of arrivals last year, with Saudi Arabia as the top individual source market. Key international sources include the UK, US, China, India and Germany. Qatar has opened tourism offices in 13 countries to broaden its outreach. Article content However, the growth in Chinese and Indian demand has been hurt by limited air connectivity. 'Flights from India to Qatar and China to Qatar are almost at the capacity,' Al Mawlawi said. 'So, we are trying hard to increase the capacity, to increase the landing slots in those countries.' Article content
Vancouver Sun
07-05-2025
- Business
- Vancouver Sun
Qatar positions itself as 'capital of sports' to hit 2030 tourism goal ahead of schedule
Qatar spent billions of dollars preparing for the 2022 World Cup, betting that the global spotlight would spark a lasting tourism boom. Three years on, that gamble appears to be paying off. International tourist arrivals surged to 5.1 million last year, up 25% from 2023. Nearly 2 million people have visited Qatar so far this year, fueling optimism among tourism officials that the gas-rich nation could surpass its targets ahead of schedule. 'Our target for 2030 was 6 to 7 million visitors, but I think we will achieve this number sooner,' said Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, chief executive officer of Visit Qatar, in an interview in Dubai last week. To help edge up numbers, the country aims to position itself as the 'capital of sports,' he said. Stay on top of the latest real estate news and home design trends. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of Westcoast Homes will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. Over the next few months, Qatar is set to hold events including the the biggest-ever edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit. 'We'll be announcing a very big event for late November in Doha,' Al Mawlawi said, declining to give further details other than that it would be a global one. The rise in visitor numbers could also help the Gulf nation reach its goal of having tourism contribute about 12% to gross domestic product — potentially ahead of the 2030 target, he said. While major sporting events have attracted thousands of fans, Qatar is aiming to position itself as a year-round destination by appealing to families seeking affordable luxury. 'It's very safe, very clean, with high-quality hotels and fine dining at reasonable prices,' Al Mawlawi said. Qatar is also expanding its hotel and resort offerings, with a focus on conference and events infrastructure. Doha currently has around 40,000 hotel rooms, with more in development. Still, the country faces stiff competition in the region. Dubai remains the Middle East's dominant tourism hub, while Abu Dhabi has committed $10 billion to expanding its cultural and hospitality footprint. Saudi Arabia aims to draw 70 million foreign visitors annually by 2030, up from about 30 million in 2024. Rather than compete directly, Qatar is promoting multi-stop itineraries, partnering with neighbors including Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi to create joint campaigns. 'We're complementing each other,' Al Mawlawi said. Gulf Cooperation Council nationals made up 41% of arrivals last year, with Saudi Arabia as the top individual source market. Key international sources include the UK, US, China, India and Germany. Qatar has opened tourism offices in 13 countries to broaden its outreach. However, the growth in Chinese and Indian demand has been hurt by limited air connectivity. 'Flights from India to Qatar and China to Qatar are almost at the capacity,' Al Mawlawi said. 'So, we are trying hard to increase the capacity, to increase the landing slots in those countries.'
Toronto Sun
07-05-2025
- Business
- Toronto Sun
Qatar positions itself as 'capital of sports' to hit 2030 tourism goal ahead of schedule
International tourist arrivals surged to 5.1 million last year, up 25% from 2023 Published May 07, 2025 • 2 minute read A view shows the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha on October 29, 2022, ahead of the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup football tournament. Photo by GABRIEL BOUYS / AFP via Getty Images Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Qatar spent billions of dollars preparing for the 2022 World Cup, betting that the global spotlight would spark a lasting tourism boom. Three years on, that gamble appears to be paying off. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account International tourist arrivals surged to 5.1 million last year, up 25% from 2023. Nearly 2 million people have visited Qatar so far this year, fueling optimism among tourism officials that the gas-rich nation could surpass its targets ahead of schedule. 'Our target for 2030 was 6 to 7 million visitors, but I think we will achieve this number sooner,' said Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, chief executive officer of Visit Qatar, in an interview in Dubai last week. To help edge up numbers, the country aims to position itself as the 'capital of sports,' he said. Over the next few months, Qatar is set to hold events including the the biggest-ever edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix at Lusail International Circuit. 'We'll be announcing a very big event for late November in Doha,' Al Mawlawi said, declining to give further details other than that it would be a global one. Plan your next getaway with Travel Time, featuring travel deals, destinations and gear. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. The rise in visitor numbers could also help the Gulf nation reach its goal of having tourism contribute about 12% to gross domestic product — potentially ahead of the 2030 target, he said. While major sporting events have attracted thousands of fans, Qatar is aiming to position itself as a year-round destination by appealing to families seeking affordable luxury. 'It's very safe, very clean, with high-quality hotels and fine dining at reasonable prices,' Al Mawlawi said. Qatar is also expanding its hotel and resort offerings, with a focus on conference and events infrastructure. Doha currently has around 40,000 hotel rooms, with more in development. Still, the country faces stiff competition in the region. Dubai remains the Middle East's dominant tourism hub, while Abu Dhabi has committed $10 billion to expanding its cultural and hospitality footprint. Saudi Arabia aims to draw 70 million foreign visitors annually by 2030, up from about 30 million in 2024. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. Rather than compete directly, Qatar is promoting multi-stop itineraries, partnering with neighbors including Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi to create joint campaigns. 'We're complementing each other,' Al Mawlawi said. Gulf Cooperation Council nationals made up 41% of arrivals last year, with Saudi Arabia as the top individual source market. Key international sources include the UK, US, China, India and Germany. Qatar has opened tourism offices in 13 countries to broaden its outreach. However, the growth in Chinese and Indian demand has been hurt by limited air connectivity. 'Flights from India to Qatar and China to Qatar are almost at the capacity,' Al Mawlawi said. 'So, we are trying hard to increase the capacity, to increase the landing slots in those countries.'
Tourism Breaking News
02-05-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Visit Qatar and flynas sign strategic MoU to boost tourism collaboration
Post Views: 115 Visit Qatar has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with flynas Airways to boost travel between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Under the agreement, the two parties will cooperate to explore opportunities to operate additional flights between Qatar and Saudi Arabia, in conjunction with hosting major events and tournaments, including the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™. The partnership will also focus on launching joint marketing campaigns aimed at promoting Qatar as a destination for visitors from the Saudi Arabian market. This agreement reinforces the solid foundation of cooperation between Visit Qatar and flynas, especially in the areas of enhancing air connectivity and implementing joint promotional campaigns during peak travel seasons. Through this partnership, both parties will continue to provide seamless travel experiences and enhance tourism between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The signing ceremony was attended by Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, along with senior Visit Qatar officials, while flynas was represented by Mr. Stéphane Majer, Chief Commercial Officer, and Mr. Abdulelah Al Eidi, Vice President of Sales.
