Latest news with #marineTourism
Zawya
19-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Old Doha Port unveils Minakom: a new standard for seamless arrivals through Qatar's maritime gateway
Doha, Qatar: Old Doha Port, Qatar's gateway to marine tourism, has announced the launch of Minakom, a pioneering digital platform that allows maritime tourists and visitors arriving by yachts and boats to complete entry procedures into Qatar (e.g. passport control and customs procedures) without disembarking their vessels. This milestone sets a new standard in maritime tourist arrival experiences, reinforcing Old Doha Port's position as a global gateway where tradition, technology, and hospitality converge, as well as offering visitors an exceptional entry to Qatar through this distinguished maritime gateway, similar to other well-known ports. Accessible through the official Old Doha Port website, Minakom offers a seamless experience for travelers sailing into Qatar. Visitors simply complete a digital inquiry form, connect with a logistics agent certified by the port to complete all necessary procedures with the relevant government officials, all from the comfort of their vessel. This process marks a first in the field of government services, reinforcing Qatar's national digital transformation and reflecting Old Doha Port's dedication to delivering best-in-class maritime hospitality while supporting the maritime sector and marine tourism. Engineer Mohammed Abdulla Al Mulla, CEO of Old Doha Port, commented on the significance of the platform: 'Minakom embodies our vision of a reimagined harbor where heritage and innovation move in harmony. As we align with Qatar National Vision 2030, this launch strengthens our position in digital infrastructure, enhances tourism excellence, and redefines the arrival experience for maritime visitors to our shores. We also extend our gratitude to the involved partners from governmental entries for their cooperation during the planning and preparation phases and their collective efforts, which led to the development of a distinguished entry process for yacht and boat owners–an initiative that aligns with the port's goal to support marine tourism, which stems back to the port's opening in 2022. ' Since its soft launch, Minakom has facilitated the seamless entry and departure of 250 private vessels, underscoring growing demand for digital-first maritime services in Qatar. While Minakom is designed exclusively for those arriving aboard private yachts and other non-cruise vessels, its launch comes at a time of strong momentum for Old Doha Port. During the 2024/2025 cruise season, the terminal welcomed 87 large cruise ships and 396,265 passengers. This marked a 5% increase in visitor arrivals and a 19% rise in ship calls compared to the previous season. Together, these milestones highlight Old Doha Port's expanding role in supporting Qatar's broader tourism growth, both through traditional cruise channels and now through digital maritime services. The previous period saw an increase in the number of visitors arriving by private yachts, whose entry and exit processes are completed through Old Doha Port using the Minakom service. Through the Old Doha Port Marina, visiting yacht owners and marine tourists enjoy a range of special offers and a full suite of dedicated services designed to deliver convenience, comfort, and seamless support throughout their stay. For vessels up to 30 meters, the marina provides shore power connections (125 amps), freshwater supply, black water vacuum services, and around-the-clock professional line handlers to assist with secure mooring, ensuring a smooth docking experience from the moment they arrive. Additional amenities include two floating fuel stations inside the port supplying both diesel and petrol, and a floating local supermarket, with designated docking spots for easy access to essential groceries and supplies without leaving the water. The port also features a high-capacity maintenance yard, equipped with a 100-tonne crane to accommodate larger vessels, alongside a variety of marine workshops offering repairs, parts, and technical support on-site. With every innovation, Old Doha Port strengthens its role as the Middle East's leading hub for smart maritime tourism. As Qatar's official seaport, it stands at the intersection of heritage and innovation, delivering seamless guest experiences that advance national goals and set new global benchmarks for smart, sustainable maritime hospitality. © Dar Al Sharq Press, Printing and Distribution. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
13-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman invites bids for luxury marina project in Quriyat
Muscat – The Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT) has announced a tender for the construction, management, and operation of a marina for luxury tourist yachts in the wilayat of Quriyat, Muscat governorate. The Internal Investment Committee of the ministry launched the bid for local and international investors specialised in marine port construction, inviting proposals in line with the terms outlined in the tender documents. The document purchasing period is from May 12 to June 22. Clarification periods will run from June 18 to July 6, and the deadline for proposal submission will end on August 17. The project is part of the ministry's ongoing efforts to enhance Oman's maritime infrastructure and attract foreign investment, supporting the country's broader economic diversification goals. It allotted a plot of land last year in the Daghmar area in Quriyat for a project of this nature. Yacht tourism in Muscat governorate is experiencing a growth, with approximately 500 registered tourist yachts now operating in the capital. Captain Majid bin Saif al Barhi, Director General of Maritime Affairs at MTCIT, earlier said that yacht tourism is a vital component that enhances marine tourism in the sultanate. 'Tourists are drawn to explore the rich marine life along Oman's coasts, including renowned destinations such as the Dimaniyat Islands, the Bandar al Khiran area, and other popular sites.' Currently, there are six marinas in operation.
Zawya
07-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
DMA hosts Workshop with Marina Representatives to elevate Premium Maritime Services in Dubai
Dubai Maritime Authority: We are committed to empowering the business community and streamlining regulatory procedures in line with the aspirations of investors and entrepreneurs, to strengthen Dubai's position as a premier luxury maritime tourism destination As part of its strategic drive to develop Dubai's marine tourism sector and reinforce its status as a premier global maritime destination, the Dubai Maritime Authority (DMA), under the Ports, Customs and Free Zone Corporation, held a specialized workshop with representatives from marinas across the Emirate. The session aimed to discuss service delivery mechanisms at local marinas and work toward a unified operational framework to support the sustainable growth of Dubai's marine tourism sector. This initiative reflects DMA's commitment to empowering the business community and simplifying regulatory procedures in alignment with the aspirations of investors and entrepreneurs. By doing so, the Authority seeks to position Dubai as a leading hub for luxury maritime tourism, offering exceptional experiences to seafarers and visitors from around the world. Sheikh Dr. Saeed bin Ahmed bin Khalifa Al Maktoum, CEO of the Dubai Maritime Authority, emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration, particularly with marina operators. He stated, 'We believe in the value of forging strong partnerships with the private sector to develop innovative, sustainable solutions. We are proud of the role each marina plays in helping us realize this shared vision'. During the workshop, attendees reviewed essential procedures and documentation required for services such as passenger pick-up and drop-off, including the permissible service durations at each marina and expected response times. The discussions also focused on creating smart and efficient communication channels via digital applications, enabling seamless access to marina services for sea-goers. DMA Directors presented digital solutions aimed at establishing secure, intelligent communication between marinas and clients. These initiatives are designed to modernize service delivery, improve operational efficiency, and enhance the overall experience for maritime users. Emphasis was placed on streamlining processes for both "Passenger Pick-up/Drop-off" and "Dock & Dine" services, with discussions outlining required documents, procedures, and expected service timelines. The workshop concluded with an open Q\&A session that generated a range of recommendations aimed at further enhancing the quality and readiness of Dubai's maritime services to accommodate global visitors.
