QTM 2025 Kicks Off in Doha, Welcoming Global Tourism Leaders to the Region’s Premier Travel Showcase
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: 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: 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’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: 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.
Katara Hospitality at QTM 2025: Four Years as a Founding Partner Championing Qatar’s Tourism Vision
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.
