Why Qatar is sailing into a bright future

Qatar’s cruise sector has been propelling the destination’s tourism growth. Well over 58,000 passengers stepped ashore to a warm Qatari welcome during the 2021/22 season.

As Qatar gears up to host the FIFA World Cup 2022 TM  there has been a surge in cruise bookings especially from Europe, Turkey, Georgia, and the US. Travellers to Qatar are discovering a nation buzzing with excitement and anticipation about welcoming the world.

Hosting arguably the single most popular global sporting event has led Qatar to develop in-depth plans to boost tourism, with an ambitious target to welcome over six million visitors a year by 2030.

A fundamental part of this is attracting more cruise passengers. Front and centre of the plans is a new Grand Cruise Terminal, which will be in central Doha near the impressive Museum of Islamic Art and Souq Waqif traditional marketplace. Once completed, the terminal will be able to host two megaships at one time and offer various attractions including an aquarium, art gallery, and provide a stunning stop-off point for passengers.

This will certainly be the case for those sailing with Emerald Cruises from January 2023. Emerald Azzurra, the line’s superyacht, will operate seven- night itineraries from Doha, calling at Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Khasab, Oman; Fujairah, UAE; Zighy Bay, Oman; and Dubai.

Pre and post cruise tours will also be available, including a three-day package to explore the sites and culture of Qatar. Highlights include the National Museum of Qatar, Msheireb Downtown Doha and the Souq Waqif.

Other lines using Doha include MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, TUI Cruises and Silversea. Qatar has also partnered with MSC to charter two of its ships during the FIFA World Cup TM and provide 4,000 cabins to accommodate visiting fans.

Chief Operating Officer at Qatar Tourism, Berthold Trenkel, said: “In line with the national strategy, Qatar National Vision 2030, we are expanding our tourism proposition and are excited to welcome travellers from around the world to experience the best of Qatari hospitality both on sea and land.

“Qatar has an incredible range of hotels, restaurants, activities and cultural landmarks which can be enjoyed pre and post cruise, allowing guests the freedom to explore Qatar at their leisure.

Qatar is extremely family-friendly, offering a range of diverse experiences that can be enjoyed by all ages. Adventure-seekers can enjoy the thrill of dune bashing across the desert, while cultural enthusiasts can explore our world-famous museums and galleries, and there is a variety of dining options serving both local and international cuisine to suit all tastes. Qatar defies expectations.”

Qatar Tourism further signalled its intent to propel the destination’s tourism growth through Tawash, a specialist training programme. The programme provides travel professionals and partners with the opportunity to understand the destination in greater detail, with information on history, culture and traditions, as well as the experiences available.

Go to tawashqatar.com to access online training and start your journey to becoming a Qatar cruise specialist.