The Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025 opened today at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), marking the start of the region’s leading travel and tourism exhibition. Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, this year’s edition brings together international tourism boards, global hospitality brands, travel innovators, government leaders, and cultural institutions from around the world.
The event was inaugurated in the distinguished presence of His Excellency Sheikh Faisal bin Thani bin Faisal Al Thani, Minister of Commerce and Industry, and His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism—reinforcing Qatar’s national commitment to positioning tourism as a cornerstone of economic diversification under the Qatar National Vision 2030.
Over the next three days, QTM 2025 will serve as a dynamic platform for industry partnerships, market insights, investment opportunities, destination showcases, and global networking.
Qatar’s Tourism Momentum: Confidence, Growth, and Global Visibility
Rawad Sleem, General Manager and Co-Founder of NeXTfairs, expressed gratitude for the event’s strong national backing:
“QTM 2025 marks a defining milestone in reinforcing Qatar’s position as one of the world’s most dynamic tourism hubs. With over 300 exhibitors, 300 hosted buyers, and participants from more than 60 countries, the event reflects growing global confidence in Qatar’s tourism vision.”
In 2024, Qatar welcomed over 2 million international visitors, with luxury hotel occupancy exceeding 75%, further underscoring the nation’s rising competitiveness in global tourism markets.
The QTM Conference, curated with the World Leisure Organization, carries the theme “Evolving Travel: Culture, Sustainability, and Wellness in a Connected World.” It brings together influential speakers, policymakers, and experts to discuss future-shaping trends across:
- Sustainable tourism development
- Digital transformation & travel tech
- Cultural tourism & heritage
- Wellness, events, and experiential travel
- Destination competitiveness
- Evolving traveler demographics
The conference opens with remarks from His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism.
Global Participation Across 60+ Countries
More than 12,000 visitors are expected to explore an enriched exhibition floor featuring:
- National Tourism Pavilions
- Investment-focused travel showcases
- Cultural exhibitions & immersive experiences
- Hospitality, aviation, and destination marketing brands
- Cruise tourism, business travel, MICE, adventure travel, and luxury tourism sectors
The expanded Global Village returns with vibrant cultural performances, artisanal crafts, and culinary showcases—strengthening global cultural exchange within Qatar’s thriving tourism platform.
Strategic Partners Driving Qatar’s Tourism Vision
QTM 2025 is organized by NeXTfairs and supported by:
- Visit Qatar – Strategic Partner
- Katara Hospitality – Founding Partner
- The Ned Doha & Retaj Hotels – Platinum Sponsors
- West Walk – Gold Sponsor
- Qissatec – Silver Sponsor
- Mowasalat (Karwa) – Official Transport Partner
Visit Qatar’s Perspective
H.E. Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji noted:
“Visit Qatar’s participation as a strategic partner reflects our commitment to developing the tourism and travel sector and strengthening Qatar’s position as a leading global destination. QTM offers meaningful prospects for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and future partnerships across the tourism ecosystem.”
Industry Leaders Share Their Insights
Chris K. Franzen, Managing Director, Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne:
“The GCC remains a vital market for premium European destinations. QTM offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen partnerships and showcase world-class hospitality experiences.”
Max Binda, Managing Director, The Ned Doha:
“At The Ned, hospitality is about meaningful experiences rooted in community, culture, and creativity. QTM allows us to share our brand’s story and vision with global partners.”
Sheikh Suhaim Ahmed S. J. Al Thani, Founder & CEO, Qissatec:
“The Qissatec app is redefining cultural tourism by blending technology, storytelling, and innovation to bring Qatar’s heritage to life.”
Ahmad Hassan Al-Obaidly, Acting CEO, Mowasalat (Karwa):
“As Qatar’s mobility partner, we ensure seamless and sustainable transport experiences for visitors discovering Qatar’s cultural and tourism offerings.”
Other distinguished partners—including Savoy London, The Plaza New York, Al Messila Resort, Mövenpick Hotel Doha, The Adria London, Sharq Village & Spa, Hilton Salwa Beach Resort, InterContinental Madrid, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha, Somerset West Bay Doha, Jouri Murwab Hotel, Sealine Beach Resort, and The Westin Excelsior Rome—shared powerful reflections on Qatar’s rising influence as a global travel and hospitality hub.
A Global Hub for Travel Innovation and Cultural Exchange
QTM 2025 reinforces Qatar’s growing prominence as an international gateway for tourism, business events, and cultural diplomacy. As global travelers, industry leaders, and tourism authorities gather in Doha, the exhibition highlights Qatar’s commitment to:
- Strengthening cross-border partnerships
- Accelerating innovation in leisure and hospitality
- Showcasing cultural diversity and heritage
- Advancing sustainable tourism ecosystems
The exhibition runs through 26 November, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the future of global travel and discover new collaborations shaping the next decade of tourism.
