23-05-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Qatar to develop the waterfront in West Bay and Safliya Island
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An agreement was signed between Qatar Tourism, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, with the aim of coordinating joint efforts to implement the waterfront project in West Bay and Al Safliya Island. This strategic project marks a key milestone in the tender process for the development and operation of five distinct beach plots along Doha's iconic waterfront in West Bay, as well as Al Safliya Island. The project is a significant step in Qatar's efforts to develop its tourism infrastructure and expand leisure options. Expressions of interest were opened to regional and international developers and operators with experience in the implementation of major hospitality and leisure projects. The scope of the project includes the design, construction, financing, operation and maintenance of 5 dedicated beachfront plotsin the West Bay area, as well as Al Saflia Island. The project will include accommodation facilities, F&B outlets, and leisure facilities, contributing to the creation of an integrated beach destination accessible to all. Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), the Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Investment Promotion Agency of Qatar (IPA), has announced the opening of Expressions of Interest (EOI) for the West Bay Waterfront Project and Al Safliya Island. The announcement was made on May 22, during the Qatar Economic Forum, in the presence of high-level representatives from the participating entities. The agreement was signed on behalf of Qatar Tourism by Mr. Omar Al Jaber, Head of Tourism Development Sector, Mr. Saleh Al Khulaifi, Assistant Undersecretary for Industry and Business Development Affairs, and Eng. Mohammed Masoud Al Marri, Projects Consultant on behalf of the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). H.E. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, President of Qatar Tourism, said: 'The West Bay and Al Saflia Island Waterfront Development is a strategic initiative that underscores our commitment to the development of Qatar's tourism sector. This agreement also reflects the strength of cooperation between the public and private sectors in the implementation of development projects with a long-term impact. The project is a key step towards creating an integrated coastal destination linking the shores of West Bay and Al Saflia Island. The project also contributes to supporting economic diversification efforts and strengthening Qatar's position as a leading global tourism destination.' For his part, HE Minister of Commerce and Industry Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al-Thani stressed that investing in tourism projects is a key pillar for diversifying the economy and enhancing partnership between the public and private sectors in advancing development, and that these projects are an important engine to attract quality investments that contribute to achieving sustainable development and support the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030 . His Excellency pointed out that the waterfront development project in West Bay and Al Saflia Island is an important step that reflects the commitment of the State of Qatar towards enhancing its investment environment and developing its vital sectors, especially tourism, hospitality and entertainment . H.E. Eng. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Meer, President of the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal', said that the waterfront development project in West Bay and Al Safliya Island embodies a distinguished model of constructive cooperation between various government entities, as well as effective partnership with the private sector, within the framework of the public-private partnership initiative adopted by the State . His Excellency called on all national entities working in the construction sector to seize this important strategic opportunity and contribute effectively to the implementation of this ambitious project. His Excellency stressed that the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal' plays a pivotal role in the implementation of tourism projects by providing an integrated infrastructure that keeps pace with the objectives of tourism projects, while adhering to the highest standards of quality and sustainability, in a way that ensures achieving a balance between urban beauty and preserving the environment and natural resources in the country.
Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al-Thani, CEO of IPA, said: ' IPA is pleased to support the West Bay Waterfront Project and Al Saflia Island, as it is a strategic initiative that contributes to attracting quality investments and enhancing the infrastructure of the tourism sector in the State of Qatar. This project also embodies the country's commitment to building a dynamic and diversified national economy, through strategic partnerships with global developers to drive development. We are confident that this project will enrich the visitor experience and open up promising prospects for innovation and sustainable development in the hospitality and leisure sectors.
