Double-decked pavilion by Qatar at ATM represents country’s ambitious tourism strategy

Qatar aims to be the fastest growing destination in the Middle East for international visitors by 2030

Led by Qatar Tourism (QT), Qatar is participating in the 29th edition of the Arabian Travel Mart (ATM) with a double-decked pavilion covering 780 sqm and hosting a significant delegation of more than 35 tourism partners from the country to represent the destination. ATM is taking place at the World Trade Centre in Dubai and runs from May 9 to 12.

With an upcoming focus on the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, the state owns an ambitious tourism strategy to triple the number of visitors to 6 million by 2030, making Qatar the fastest growing destination in the Middle East for international visitors.

Visitors to the Qatar pavilion (Hall 1 – ME1210) can meet representatives from a host of industry partners, including the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy which oversees the implementation of operations in advance of the global football tournament. Destination management companies such as Discover Qatar and the award-winning national carrier, Qatar Airways, will also be present at the four-day event showcasing the destination’s connectivity and ease of access.

Building up excitement to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM, football fans at the Qatar pavilion will be able to capture an augmented reality (AR) selfie with the official Qatar FIFA Mascot, “La’eeb.” This fun and adventurous character promotes joy and happiness… La’eeb shares his enthusiasm with crowds and joins the public in celebrating the first World Cup to be held in the region. La’eeb will be ready to welcome visitors at the pavilion.

The Qatar pavilion will allow visitors to explore Qatar. Through a 5m x 2m LED screen with gesture control, guests can explore some of the country’s top attractions. And to take visitors that much closer, holiday prizes are at the ready, with a “Create and Win” competition that allows people to customise their own holiday and enter a draw with a chance to win.

Berthold Trenkel, Chief Operating Office at Qatar Tourism, commented: “Qatar is a prime destination for visitors in the region, with multiple access points from land, air and sea. With a focus on delivering attractions and experiences that reflect the country’s deep customs and traditions, we believe there are a host of experiences to enjoy from arts and culture, sports, and more.”

He added, “During this event, we greatly look forward to reconnecting with our peers, forging new partnerships, and showcasing some of Qatar’s latest developments.”

Qatar has seen a host of new openings in recent months, with the showstopping Place Vendôme recently opening its doors to the public. Qatar Tourism maintains an active calendar of events throughout the year with world-class ballets and leading artists from the region having recently staged performances. Prior to ATM, QT wrapped up its Eid in Qatar festival, which saw the region’s first giant balloon parade delight crowds along the Doha Corniche, home to the city’s iconic skyline. Later this year, numerous international hotel brands and shopping destinations are anticipated to open. Of note is Printemps, which will mark the Parisienne’s brand’s first venture outside of France.

In its commitment to lead the sector and work towards its tourism strategy, Qatar will launch a new Qatar Specialist learning programme in the coming months. Designed for global trade travel partners, the programme will offer an immersive, online experience with interactive content. Completing the programme will allow partners to become certified Qatar Specialists.

www.visitqatar.qa