Business Leaders ME | Qatar & Middle East Business News Magazine https://businessleadersme.com/tag/middle-east-tourism/ Turning Milestones into Headlines Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:53:30 +0000 en hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1.3 https://businessleadersme.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/bl-favicon-150x150.png Business Leaders ME | Qatar & Middle East Business News Magazine https://businessleadersme.com/tag/middle-east-tourism/ 32 32 Katara Hospitality at QTM 2025: Four Years as a Founding Partner Championing Qatar’s Tourism Vision https://businessleadersme.com/katara-hospitality-at-qtm-2025-four-years-as-a-founding-partner-championing-qatars-tourism-vision/ Sun, 23 Nov 2025 19:42:49 +0000 https://businessleadersme.com/?p=3148 Katara Hospitality, Qatar’s leading global hotel owner, developer, and operator, marks a major milestone as it returns for the fourth consecutive year as a Founding Partner at Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025. Its continued partnership underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting Qatar’s tourism strategy, strengthening the nation’s hospitality sector, and advancing the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030. As QTM 2025 gathers global tourism leaders, travel innovators, and international hospitality brands, Katara Hospitality’s influential presence goes beyond representing a distinguished portfolio of world-class properties. It stands as a powerful reaffirmation of Qatar’s rising position as a dynamic, world-class global tourism hub. Driving the Future of Hospitality in Qatar and Beyond The hospitality sector remains the backbone of Qatar’s tourism industry, playing a vital role in supporting economic growth, cultural exchange, and destination competitiveness. Katara Hospitality continues to elevate Qatar’s tourism landscape through: 1. Elevating the Guest Experience With exceptional service standards, luxury accommodations, and innovative dining experiences, Katara Hospitality reinforces Qatar’s reputation for refined Arabian hospitality—turning every visit into an unforgettable journey. 2. Accelerating Economic Diversification As one of the region’s largest hospitality employers, Katara Hospitality contributes significantly to job creation and supports a broad ecosystem of suppliers, innovators, and service providers, both locally and globally. 3. Showcasing Qatar’s Cultural Identity Through its hotels and hospitality teams around the world, Katara Hospitality serves as a cultural ambassador for Qatar, offering authentic experiences that highlight Qatari warmth, heritage, and vision. In the context of QTM 2025, Katara Hospitality’s continued leadership underscores the fundamental role of premium hospitality infrastructure in Qatar’s expanding tourism ambitions. A Vision Rooted in Purpose & National Pride “Our enduring commitment to QTM as a Founding Partner is a source of immense pride and a testament to our core belief: that Qatar is destined to be a global beacon of luxury and hospitality… We are not simply building assets; we are building bridges that welcome the world to Qatar’s doorstep.”— Shoaa Al Semaiti, Manager – Marketing & Communications, Katara Hospitality Global Partners Applaud Katara Hospitality’s Leadership at QTM 2025 Katara Hospitality’s participation brings together a distinguished collection of international hotel partners—all of whom praise the impact and importance of QTM as a global platform: Raffles & Fairmont Doha – Andrew Steele “QTM remains an exceptional platform to highlight Qatar’s leadership in the luxury space… We are proud to support the nation’s 2030 vision.” The Savoy London “We are pleased to unveil our newly redesigned rooms and suites at QTM 2025. It’s a fantastic space to engage with global industry leaders.” The Plaza New York – Sam Ioannidis “Qatar represents a strong strategic opportunity… I am honoured to participate for the second consecutive year.” Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne – Chris K. Franzen “We proudly represent Switzerland’s hospitality heritage. QTM strengthens our connections with GCC travellers seeking authentic and premium experiences.” Hotel Park Doha – Ziad Nasrallah “QTM celebrates innovation and excellence. We are proud to position Hotel Park Doha as one of Qatar’s leading outdoor leisure destinations.” Al Messila Resort & Spa – Kazem Shamas “QTM enables us to showcase our private villas, wellness offerings, and culinary experiences to a global audience.” Mövenpick Hotel Doha – Dan Sebastian “Each year, QTM inspires us to elevate guest experiences and connect with global markets.” Carlton Cannes – Pierre-Louis Renou “As a participant since day one, QTM holds a special place for us.” Somerset West Bay Doha – Prem Kumar “This reflects our shared commitment to exceptional hospitality and service.” Renaissance Sharm El Sheikh – Bassam Dzhaafar “QTM reinforces our commitment to memorable guest experiences.” Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Milan – Gianrico Esposito “We proudly represent Milanese elegance and look forward to expanding our partnerships across the GCC.” Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas – Petr Pisecky “This event showcases the strength and vibrancy of Qatar’s tourism sector.” InterContinental Madrid – Giuseppe Vincelli “QTM strengthens our connections with international travel partners.” Dana Club – Ahmad Hussaen Al Abdulla “We proudly support Qatar’s journey to becoming a global tourism leader.” Sharq Village & Spa – Alper Can Bulcum “We proudly represent Qatari hospitality and Ritz-Carlton elegance at QTM.” Sealine Beach Resort – Marko Jovanovic “We celebrate five years of QTM participation—each edition bringing stronger partnerships and new opportunities.” The Amstel Hotel – Tom Krooswijk “Our presence strengthens ties with the Middle Eastern luxury travel market.” Sheraton Grand Doha – Peter Katusak-Huzsvar “We proudly showcase our rich heritage and Michelin-starred experiences at QTM.” The Westin Excelsior Rome – Marc Lannoy “QTM provides meaningful opportunities to discuss sustainability, innovation, and wellness.” Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha – Vincent David “We look forward to highlighting our role in elevating Qatar’s all-inclusive luxury experience.” Jouri, A Murwab Hotel – Oksana Uzkureli “We proudly reflect the spirit of warm, genuine Qatari hospitality.” The Adria, London – Dominik Feller “QTM allows us to connect with partners who continue to make The Adria part of their London story.” A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Global Growth As Qatar continues its journey to become one of the world’s most influential tourism destinations, Katara Hospitality stands at the forefront of national progress, innovation, and global expansion. Through its leadership at QTM 2025, the company reinforces its long-standing mission: To elevate Qatar’s global hospitality footprint and create transformative travel experiences for the world.  

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Katara Hospitality, Qatar’s leading global hotel owner, developer, and operator, marks a major milestone as it returns for the fourth consecutive year as a Founding Partner at Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025. Its continued partnership underscores the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting Qatar’s tourism strategy, strengthening the nation’s hospitality sector, and advancing the ambitions of the Qatar National Vision 2030.

As QTM 2025 gathers global tourism leaders, travel innovators, and international hospitality brands, Katara Hospitality’s influential presence goes beyond representing a distinguished portfolio of world-class properties. It stands as a powerful reaffirmation of Qatar’s rising position as a dynamic, world-class global tourism hub.

Driving the Future of Hospitality in Qatar and Beyond

The hospitality sector remains the backbone of Qatar’s tourism industry, playing a vital role in supporting economic growth, cultural exchange, and destination competitiveness.

Katara Hospitality continues to elevate Qatar’s tourism landscape through:

1. Elevating the Guest Experience

With exceptional service standards, luxury accommodations, and innovative dining experiences, Katara Hospitality reinforces Qatar’s reputation for refined Arabian hospitality—turning every visit into an unforgettable journey.

2. Accelerating Economic Diversification

As one of the region’s largest hospitality employers, Katara Hospitality contributes significantly to job creation and supports a broad ecosystem of suppliers, innovators, and service providers, both locally and globally.

3. Showcasing Qatar’s Cultural Identity

Through its hotels and hospitality teams around the world, Katara Hospitality serves as a cultural ambassador for Qatar, offering authentic experiences that highlight Qatari warmth, heritage, and vision.

In the context of QTM 2025, Katara Hospitality’s continued leadership underscores the fundamental role of premium hospitality infrastructure in Qatar’s expanding tourism ambitions.

A Vision Rooted in Purpose & National Pride

“Our enduring commitment to QTM as a Founding Partner is a source of immense pride and a testament to our core belief: that Qatar is destined to be a global beacon of luxury and hospitality… We are not simply building assets; we are building bridges that welcome the world to Qatar’s doorstep.”
— Shoaa Al Semaiti, Manager – Marketing & Communications, Katara Hospitality

Global Partners Applaud Katara Hospitality’s Leadership at QTM 2025

Katara Hospitality’s participation brings together a distinguished collection of international hotel partners—all of whom praise the impact and importance of QTM as a global platform:

Raffles & Fairmont Doha – Andrew Steele

“QTM remains an exceptional platform to highlight Qatar’s leadership in the luxury space… We are proud to support the nation’s 2030 vision.”

The Savoy London

“We are pleased to unveil our newly redesigned rooms and suites at QTM 2025. It’s a fantastic space to engage with global industry leaders.”

The Plaza New York – Sam Ioannidis

“Qatar represents a strong strategic opportunity… I am honoured to participate for the second consecutive year.”

Bürgenstock Resort Lake Lucerne – Chris K. Franzen

“We proudly represent Switzerland’s hospitality heritage. QTM strengthens our connections with GCC travellers seeking authentic and premium experiences.”

Hotel Park Doha – Ziad Nasrallah

“QTM celebrates innovation and excellence. We are proud to position Hotel Park Doha as one of Qatar’s leading outdoor leisure destinations.”

Al Messila Resort & Spa – Kazem Shamas

“QTM enables us to showcase our private villas, wellness offerings, and culinary experiences to a global audience.”

Mövenpick Hotel Doha – Dan Sebastian

“Each year, QTM inspires us to elevate guest experiences and connect with global markets.”

Carlton Cannes – Pierre-Louis Renou

“As a participant since day one, QTM holds a special place for us.”

Somerset West Bay Doha – Prem Kumar

“This reflects our shared commitment to exceptional hospitality and service.”

Renaissance Sharm El Sheikh – Bassam Dzhaafar

“QTM reinforces our commitment to memorable guest experiences.”

Excelsior Hotel Gallia, Milan – Gianrico Esposito

“We proudly represent Milanese elegance and look forward to expanding our partnerships across the GCC.”

Hilton Salwa Beach Resort & Villas – Petr Pisecky

“This event showcases the strength and vibrancy of Qatar’s tourism sector.”

InterContinental Madrid – Giuseppe Vincelli

“QTM strengthens our connections with international travel partners.”

Dana Club – Ahmad Hussaen Al Abdulla

“We proudly support Qatar’s journey to becoming a global tourism leader.”

Sharq Village & Spa – Alper Can Bulcum

“We proudly represent Qatari hospitality and Ritz-Carlton elegance at QTM.”

Sealine Beach Resort – Marko Jovanovic

“We celebrate five years of QTM participation—each edition bringing stronger partnerships and new opportunities.”

The Amstel Hotel – Tom Krooswijk

“Our presence strengthens ties with the Middle Eastern luxury travel market.”

Sheraton Grand Doha – Peter Katusak-Huzsvar

“We proudly showcase our rich heritage and Michelin-starred experiences at QTM.”

The Westin Excelsior Rome – Marc Lannoy

“QTM provides meaningful opportunities to discuss sustainability, innovation, and wellness.”

Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha – Vincent David

“We look forward to highlighting our role in elevating Qatar’s all-inclusive luxury experience.”

Jouri, A Murwab Hotel – Oksana Uzkureli

“We proudly reflect the spirit of warm, genuine Qatari hospitality.”

The Adria, London – Dominik Feller

“QTM allows us to connect with partners who continue to make The Adria part of their London story.”

A Legacy of Excellence, A Future of Global Growth

As Qatar continues its journey to become one of the world’s most influential tourism destinations, Katara Hospitality stands at the forefront of national progress, innovation, and global expansion.

Through its leadership at QTM 2025, the company reinforces its long-standing mission:

To elevate Qatar’s global hospitality footprint and create transformative travel experiences for the world.

 

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]]> Qatar Tourism Concludes the 51st Meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East and the “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup” Conference https://businessleadersme.com/qatar-tourism-concludes-the-51st-meeting-of-the-un-tourism-regional-commission-for-the-middle-east-and-the-sports-tourism-and-the-tourism-industry-post-world-cup-conference/ Sun, 16 Feb 2025 13:24:16 +0000 https://businessleadersme.com/?p=1861 The State of Kuwait has been appointed as the Chair of the Regional Committee for the 2025-2027 term, and The State of Qatar has been appointed as the First Vice-Chair of the committee. Qatar Tourism hosted the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East on February 12, 2025, with high-level delegations from thirteen member states. The meeting focused on evaluating achievements, analysing sector trends, and identifying key priorities for boosting tourism in the region. The UN Tourism confirmed that the Middle East had the fastest global recovery from the impacts of the pandemic in 2024. The meeting emphasised the importance of regional cooperation. Kuwait was appointed to serve as Chair of the Regional Commission for the 2025-2027 period, with Qatar appointed as First Vice-Chair and Iraq as Second Vice-Chair. Qatar’s appointment as First Vice-Chair reflects its growing leadership in the tourism sector and its active role in driving regional and global tourism development. The meeting also confirmed that Kuwait will host the next session (the 52nd Regional Meeting) in 2026, underscoring the continued regional collaboration to promote sustainable tourism development in the Middle East. Additionally, Qatar Tourism hosted the “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry After the World Cup” conference on February 13, 2025. The event brought together experts and specialists to discuss the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the region, focusing on how to leverage the momentum from large-scale events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ to boost sports tourism. The conference highlighted Qatar’s successes in this area and the role of major investments in sports clubs and global athletes in reinforcing the Middle East’s position as a prominent sports and tourism hub globally. The conference also explored the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience in the region, the collaboration between Qatar and neighbouring countries to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role of sports in promoting the destination’s brand across the region, drawing from Qatar’s successful experiences and lessons learned. These events reinforce Qatar Tourism’s commitment to enhancing the country’s status as a global tourism hub, hosting major events, and developing innovative strategies to support sustainable tourism. This is in line with Qatar’s broader vision to drive economic growth and strengthen tourism as a vital sector for the future.

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The State of Kuwait has been appointed as the Chair of the Regional Committee for the 2025-2027 term, and The State of Qatar has been appointed as the First Vice-Chair of the committee.

Qatar Tourism hosted the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East on February 12, 2025, with high-level delegations from thirteen member states. The meeting focused on evaluating achievements, analysing sector trends, and identifying key priorities for boosting tourism in the region.

The UN Tourism confirmed that the Middle East had the fastest global recovery from the impacts of the pandemic in 2024. The meeting emphasised the importance of regional cooperation. Kuwait was appointed to serve as Chair of the Regional Commission for the 2025-2027 period, with Qatar appointed as First Vice-Chair and Iraq as Second Vice-Chair. Qatar’s appointment as First Vice-Chair reflects its growing leadership in the tourism sector and its active role in driving regional and global tourism development. The meeting also confirmed that Kuwait will host the next session (the 52nd Regional Meeting) in 2026, underscoring the continued regional collaboration to promote sustainable tourism development in the Middle East.

Additionally, Qatar Tourism hosted the “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry After the World Cup” conference on February 13, 2025. The event brought together experts and specialists to discuss the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the region, focusing on how to leverage the momentum from large-scale events such as the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ to boost sports tourism.

The conference highlighted Qatar’s successes in this area and the role of major investments in sports clubs and global athletes in reinforcing the Middle East’s position as a prominent sports and tourism hub globally. The conference also explored the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience in the region, the collaboration between Qatar and neighbouring countries to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role of sports in promoting the destination’s brand across the region, drawing from Qatar’s successful experiences and lessons learned. These events reinforce Qatar Tourism’s commitment to enhancing the country’s status as a global tourism hub, hosting major events, and developing innovative strategies to support sustainable tourism. This is in line with Qatar’s broader vision to drive economic growth and strengthen tourism as a vital sector for the future.

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]]> Qatar set to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East https://businessleadersme.com/qatar-set-to-host-the-51st-un-tourism-regional-commission-for-the-middle-east/ Tue, 11 Feb 2025 07:46:09 +0000 https://businessleadersme.com/?p=1750 Qatar Tourism is preparing to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East, set to take place in Doha on February 12th. The meeting will bring together tourism ministers, senior officials, and experts from various countries in the region, as well as leadership from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism). The selection of Doha as the host city underscores Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global hub in the tourism sector and its leadership role in promoting both regional and international cooperation. This is especially significant considering the country’s recent successes in hosting major global events, most notably the FIFA World Cup 2022™. During the meeting, the UN Tourism will present reports on the sector’s performance for the 2024-2025 period, and future policies and plans will be discussed. HE Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, stated: “Hosting the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East reflects our steadfast commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and developing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic and social growth. Qatar has proven its capability to organise and host major international events, establishing itself as a global model for sustainable tourism. We are confident that this meeting will further advance regional cooperation in the tourism sector, and we look forward to exchanging ideas and expertise with partners from across the region to bolster the Middle East’s position as a unique global tourism destination.” In addition to the ministerial sessions and official meetings, the conference titled “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup” will be held on February 13th at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre, featuring a distinguished group of experts and specialists. The conference will explore the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the Middle East, their role in fostering sustainable tourism, and the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience. It will also focus on how Qatar and its neighbouring countries are collaborating to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role sport plays in enhancing destination branding across the region, drawing on Qatar’s successes and the lessons learned from its experiences. Qatar Tourism remains committed to advancing its ambitious strategy to establish Qatar as a leading global tourism destination, focusing on diversifying tourism offerings, enhancing visitor experiences, and fostering sector investment, all in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Additionally, efforts to strengthen regional collaboration through platforms such as UN Tourism are contributing to the development of a more integrated and sustainable tourism sector.

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]]> Qatar Tourism is preparing to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East, set to take place in Doha on February 12th. The meeting will bring together tourism ministers, senior officials, and experts from various countries in the region, as well as leadership from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).

The selection of Doha as the host city underscores Qatar’s growing status as a regional and global hub in the tourism sector and its leadership role in promoting both regional and international cooperation. This is especially significant considering the country’s recent successes in hosting major global events, most notably the FIFA World Cup 2022™.

During the meeting, the UN Tourism will present reports on the sector’s performance for the 2024-2025 period, and future policies and plans will be discussed.

HE Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, stated: “Hosting the 51st meeting of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East reflects our steadfast commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and developing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic and social growth. Qatar has proven its capability to organise and host major international events, establishing itself as a global model for sustainable tourism. We are confident that this meeting will further advance regional cooperation in the tourism sector, and we look forward to exchanging ideas and expertise with partners from across the region to bolster the Middle East’s position as a unique global tourism destination.”

HE Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism

In addition to the ministerial sessions and official meetings, the conference titled “Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup” will be held on February 13th at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre, featuring a distinguished group of experts and specialists.

The conference will explore the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the Middle East, their role in fostering sustainable tourism, and the role of technology in enhancing the sports tourism experience. It will also focus on how Qatar and its neighbouring countries are collaborating to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination, and the role sport plays in enhancing destination branding across the region, drawing on Qatar’s successes and the lessons learned from its experiences. Qatar Tourism remains committed to advancing its ambitious strategy to establish Qatar as a leading global tourism destination, focusing on diversifying tourism offerings, enhancing visitor experiences, and fostering sector investment, all in line with Qatar National Vision 2030. Additionally, efforts to strengthen regional collaboration through platforms such as UN Tourism are contributing to the development of a more integrated and sustainable tourism sector.

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