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.
Qatar Travel Mart 2025 Invites Global Industry Leaders to Shape the Future of Tourism
As global travel and tourism enter a new era of expansion, Qatar Travel Mart (QTM) 2025 invites industry leaders, tourism professionals, and global travellers to experience a world of destinations, ideas, and opportunities—all under one roof in Doha. Held under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, this year’s edition is set to be one of the most influential gatherings in the global travel and hospitality sector. QTM 2025 brings together the world’s leading voices, fostering collaboration and showcasing the role of tourism in connecting cultures and driving sustainable economic growth. A Record-Setting Platform for Qatar’s Tourism Ambitions Building on last year’s outstanding success—10,000+ visitors, 300+ exhibitors from 60+ countries, 300+ hosted buyers, and 50+ global speakers—QTM 2025 returns with an expanded vision for the future of tourism. This year’s event will unite stakeholders across ten key tourism sectors, reinforcing QTM’s position as a global hub for travel innovation, hospitality leadership, and destination development. Organised by NeXTfairs, and supported by an impressive lineup of partners—including Visit Qatar as Strategic Partner, Katara Hospitality as Founding Partner, The Ned Doha and Retaj Hotels & Hospitality as Platinum Sponsors, West Walk as Gold Sponsor, Qissatec as Silver Sponsor, and Mowasalat as Official Transport Partner—QTM 2025 reflects Qatar’s growing status as a world-class destination for leisure, culture, business, and events. Industry Leaders Share Their Vision Max Binda, Managing Director of The Ned Doha, highlighted Qatar’s growing global appeal:“Qatar Travel Mart is a powerful platform to showcase how Qatar blends heritage, art, and hospitality. We are honoured to contribute to a country that continues to evolve as a global hub for culture and travel.” Medhat Nouby, CEO of Retaj Hotels & Hospitality, added:“Being a Platinum Sponsor of QTM 2025 reinforces our commitment to elevating Qatari hospitality on the world stage. The event provides a strategic platform to share our regional growth, partnerships, and new developments.” As a Silver Sponsor, Qissatec brings a visionary approach to cultural technology. Founder & CEO Sheikh Suhaim Ahmed S. J. Al Thani said:“At Qissatec, we believe every place has a soul. Through the Qissatec App, we connect people to the stories behind every destination—preserving heritage, inspiring discovery, and transforming every journey into an emotional, immersive experience.” A Global Showcase of Destinations and Innovation QTM 2025 will welcome a diverse lineup of international tourism boards, country pavilions, and destination brands, offering a vibrant showcase of global travel potential. Visitors can explore new markets, discover investment opportunities, and engage with partners from across the world. This year’s edition provides a unique platform for understanding how innovation, collaboration, and sustainability are reshaping the future of global tourism. QTM Conference: Three Days of Insight and Inspiration A major highlight of QTM 2025 is the QTM Conference, curated in partnership with the World Leisure Organisation. Spanning three thematic days, the conference will explore the future of tourism through the lenses of: Day 1: Culture & Heritage Tourism Celebrating the stories, identities, and shared human experiences that define global destinations. Day 2: Hospitality & Sustainability A deep dive into how design, digital transformation, and green practices are reshaping the modern hospitality landscape. Day 3: Events, Wellness & Health Tourism Exploring how events and wellness experiences can drive economic growth, enhance well-being, and strengthen destination competitiveness. Industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and tourism experts will share insights, real-world strategies, and future-focused ideas that reflect the travel industry’s rapid transformation. Final Call to Register With just one week left to register, QTM 2025 is set to be an unmissable global event for tourism boards, hospitality brands, travel professionals, investors, and travellers passionate about the future of tourism. Qatar Travel Mart 2025 is more than an exhibition—it is a gateway to global opportunity, a celebration of cultural exchange, and a platform shaping the next chapter of international tourism.
Hospitality Qatar 2025 Kicks Off at DECC with 150 Exhibitors from 20 Countries
A Decade of Excellence in Qatar’s Leading Hospitality and Tourism Exhibition Under the patronage of H.E. Mr Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, the 10th edition of Hospitality Qatar 2025 officially opened at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). Organised by IFP Qatar, this milestone event—running from October 28 to 30, 2025—marks ten years of innovation and excellence in Qatar’s hospitality, tourism, and HORECA industries. Welcoming 150 exhibitors from 20 countries, including Argentina, Chile, India, the UAE, China, Italy, and the Netherlands, the exhibition reinforces Qatar’s global standing as a regional hub for hospitality, business, and investment. Qatar’s Tourism Vision Strengthened Mr Omar Abdelrahman Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism, emphasised the exhibition’s role in shaping the country’s tourism landscape:
Unboxing the Magic: Behind the Scenes of Disney The Magic Box Ahead of its Doha Premiere this April
This spring, Disney The Magic Box arrives in Doha, offering a unique and immersive theatrical experience. Presented by Fever, the global live entertainment discovery platform, and Proactiv Entertainment, a renowned producer of large-scale productions, the event aligns with Visit Qatar’s mission to bring world-class, family-friendly entertainment to the region. A Visionary Theatrical Experience Disney The Magic Box was conceived by Felipe Gamba Paredes (Creative Producer, Co-Book Writer) and his creative team to offer an innovative take on Disney’s timeless stories. The production takes audiences on an emotional journey, rekindling the sense of wonder first sparked by Disney classics. With the support of Disney Theatrical Group, Gamba Paredes assembled a diverse team of artists, blending passionate Disney enthusiasts with fresh voices to reimagine the spirit of beloved characters. At the heart of this vision is Mickey Mouse, the mischievous, resourceful, and beloved character whose ingenuity and humor shaped Disney legacy. His presence serves as a reminder of the boundless imagination and playful spirit that have defined Disney storytelling for generations. Puppetry, Humor, and Emotional Storytelling Bringing Disney characters to life through masterful puppetry, stunning visuals, and dynamic theatrical techniques, Disney The Magic Box seamlessly weaves humor and heart into its storytelling. Laughter sets the stage for deeply moving moments, making iconic ballads like Colors of the Wind, Let It Go, and How Far I’ll Go even more poignant. This carefully crafted emotional arc lingers long after the curtain falls. A Journey of Self-Discovery At the heart of the production is Mara, a young woman who stumbles upon a mysterious, magical box. As she unravels its secrets, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, rediscovering the imagination and joy of childhood. Much like Alice in Wonderland, her adventure invites audiences to reflect on their own inner worlds, reigniting the magic of storytelling and adventure. Each song has been thoughtfully selected to mirror Mara’s emotional transformation, creating a narrative that blends nostalgia, self-reflection, and wonder. As audiences follow her journey, they too reconnect with the timeless magic of Disney. A Musical for All Generations One of the production’s most distinctive qualities is its universal appeal. Mara’s story resonates across generations, with the show’s soundtrack spanning decades—from Mary Poppins (1964) to Aladdin (1992) and modern favorites like Frozen and Moana. As she emerges from the audience at the start of the show, she draws viewers into a shared experience that speaks to children and adults alike. As Disney The Magic Box makes its highly anticipated debut in Doha, this collaboration underscores Qatar’s commitment to bringing exceptional global entertainment to the region. With Fever and Proactiv Entertainment at the helm, this extraordinary production promises to enchant audiences of all ages. Don’t miss this celebration of Disney’s enduring magic!Tickets for Disney The Magic Box are available at Virgin Megastore and Fever.For more details on Visit Qatar’s upcoming events, visit visitqatar.com. SHOW INFORMATION Venue: Al Mayassa Theatre OpeningDate: 3rd April 2025Running Time: 90 minutes (no intermission)Recommended Age: 6 years and above (No children under 3) Performance Schedule:Weekdays: Wednesdays, Thursdays – 17:30Fridays: 15:30, 20:00 Weekends: Saturdays – 14:00, 17:30 Ticket Prices: Starting at QAR 70
Business Leaders – March 2025
Qatar Calendar unveils a special lineup of events celebrating Ramadan and beyond
With the holy month of Ramadan in full swing, the March edition of Qatar Calendar offers a vibrant lineup of family-friendly events that capture the essence of this special time. Visitors can look forward to food festivals, immersive exhibitions, unique art displays, and exciting sporting events, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy this Ramadan. Ramadan Activities. Old Doha Port welcomes the return of the Throwback Food Festival throughout the holy month of Ramadan, offering visitors a daily feast of culinary delights from a diverse range of cuisines. Also taking place throughout Ramadan until March 30, is Hosh Msheireb, an experience inspired by the warmth of family gatherings in the courtyard of a traditional Qatari heritage house. It provides a welcoming space for family and friends to come together and embrace the spirit of the holy month. Additionally, Msheirebis hosting a variety of Ramadan-themed activities from March 1 to April 1, adding to the festive atmosphere. This month residents can also enjoy Ramadan Nights at Hyatt Plaza, an annual Ramadan campaign running from March 1 to April 4, featuring engaging activities such as kids’ workshops and roaming characters. Ramadan at Torba Farmers Market returns to Education City from March 7 to March 29, where visitors can enjoy traditional craftsmanship, Arabic cuisine, and sweet treats in a lively setting. The third edition of The Pearl Ramadan Bazaar will bring a vibrant array of kiosks featuring food and crafts to 2-5 La Croisette, Porto Arabia, The Pearl, from March 1 to April 5. For those looking to shop, the Tajheezat Sha’ban & Ramadan Trade Fair at Katara Cultural Village offers a wide selection of discounted products from February 25 to March 12. Additionally, the Ramadan and Eid Shopping Exhibition at DECC runs from March 16 to March 29, providing even more great deals for shoppers. Those interested in Islamic art can explore traditional craftsmanship at the Ramadan Herfah Workshops, held at Al Khater House from March 2 to March 22. For family-friendly fun visitors and residents can head over to Le Marché at Place Vendôme Mall for activities including Paintless Paintball, Bazooka Ball, and the Space Tribe Ball Pit, running now until April 30. Sporting Events Education City, in partnership with the Qatar Sports for All Federation, is hosting the Sports for All Ladies Ramadan Series 2025 every Saturday from March 1 to March 22. The event features four races ranging from 5 to 30 minutes. Also taking place at Education City is Ladies Night x QSFA Tournaments, running from March 4 to March 26. This series includes four Ramadan tournaments exclusively for women, featuring football, volleyball, badminton, and running races. For those looking to test their endurance this Ramadan, The North Challenge, organised in partnership with Qatar Ultra Runners, offers a two-hour running race at Heenat Salma Farm on March 6. Lusail Circuit is also promoting health and physical activity with the Dukhan Bank Ramadan Duathlon 2025, set to take place on March 14. Two volleyball tournaments are happening this month: the 3rd “Ekbes” Beach Volleyball Tournament 2025 at Old Doha Port from March 6 to March 14, and the Volleyball Tournament at 974 Beach from March 12 to March 14, where participants can form teams and compete for prizes. A squash competition, QSF 3 PSA Satellite “Senior” (1K) – Squash, is also taking place at Khalifa International Tennis & Squash Complex from March 17 to March 20. Exhibitions and Festivals Qatar’s exhibition scene is thriving with a diverse range of insightful art displays and showcases including the Mal Lawal 4 Exhibition, running until April 10 at Sahat Al Nakheel in Msheireb Downtown Doha, explores the history of gaming with a special focus on the 1990s. Over at Fire Station’s Gallery 4, The Voyager is the Narrator II: New York & Paris Residency Exhibition will feature the remarkable works of 10 talented artists who participated in the international residency program in Paris and New York. The Al-Raqim Exhibition, running until June 21 at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), celebrates Arabic calligraphy as an art form. Meanwhile, In the Realms of Mecca: A Journey through the Rituals of Hajj and Umrah at MIA offers an immersive look into the sacred rituals of Hajj and Umrah until December 30. For those interested in fashion and accessories, the Rouda Al Malki Exhibition at Al Dana Club from March 7 to March 12 will showcase women’s essentials, including abayas and jewellery. Additionally, the first-ever Asian Nuts and Dried Fruits Exhibition is now open at Souq Waqif, bringing together over 40 companies from around the world. Running from March 1 to March 10, the exhibition offers visitors a chance to explore a wide selection of premium nuts and dried fruits from top global producers. For detailed event information and to stay updated, visit www.visitqatar.com, download the Visit Qatar app, and follow @QatarCalendar on social media.
Visit Qatar Launches the Second Edition of Throwback Food Festival
The second edition of Visit Qatar’s Throwback Food Festival, organised by Visit Qatar, returns at Doha’s Old Port. This year it features new additions and exciting experiences. The festival celebrates the country’s local heritage through traditional cuisine and cultural experiences, offering visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the past. Hamad Al Khaja, Manager of Festivals & Events Delivery at Visit Qatar, said: “Throwback Food Festival is a unique experience that celebrates Qatar’s rich heritage through a variety of events that include traditional cuisine, cultural performances, and interactive competitions. This year, we have expanded the range of activities and enriched the experience, combining heritage markets, traditional games, folk tales, and artistic performances that reflect Qatar’s cultural identity. Through this event, we aim to provide an integrated experience that blends the authenticity of the past with the modernity of the present, making Throwback Food Festival one of the most prominent Ramadan events that enriches the tourism scene in Qatar.” A Ramadan experience with local touches Throwback Food Festival brings the old Qatari souks to life through the ‘Dakkan’ initative, which recreates the flavours of old Qatar, where visitors can sample traditional foods and sweets from the Tayyibin generation. The experience allows visitors to relive their childhood through the dishes they grew up with, in an atmosphere that is full of the flavours of the past. The Folk Games Kiosk also hosts fun competitions that reflect the spirit of Qatari traditions, where visitors can participate in traditional games in a lively Ramadan atmosphere. Quizzes and Tales from the Past The Throwback Food Festival Theatre offers a range of artistic and cultural activities inspired by Qatar’s heritage. Visitors can enjoy interactive competitions such as ‘Kahoot’, which includes questions on popular foods, traditional crafts, and heritage events, with valuable prizes for the winners, as well as ‘Treasure Hunt’ competition, which invites participants to solve heritage puzzles and interact with different stalls to discover the secrets of the past. Set in a lively atmosphere that embraces heritage, the Hakawati tells stories about the history of local cuisine and hospitality, with sound effects and traditional costumes reflecting the spirit of the past. At the Puppet Theatre, children and families can enjoy a puppet show that tells stories about Qatari cuisine and the importance of hospitality and traditions, in an interactive and entertaining way. The festival offers an interactive experience for culinary enthusiasts, with chefs competing in the ‘Local Flavour Challenge’ to prepare Qatari dishes with a creative twist, and the public participating in the ‘People’s Taste Challenge’ to choose the best dish. There will also be a ‘Secret Ingredient Challenge’ where chefs will have to prepare dishes using surprising ingredients, making the competition even more exciting. Folkloric performances and folk songs The festival will host live musical performances featuring traditional songs and rhymes sung at majlis and weddings, and during food preparation such as grinding wheat and making bread, using drums, oud and marwas to add authenticity to the visitor’s experience. This year’s Garangao will also be a night full of colour, joy, and memories. To further enhance the Ramadan experience in Qatar, Visit Qatar has launched this year’s Ramadan campaign titled “Welcome Our Dear Neighbours” which aims to welcome visitors from the GCC during the holy month of Ramadan for an exceptional Ramadan experience, under the theme “Ramadan is better with you”, with Qatar Calendar’s events. Visitors can explore the Ramadan events calendar on the Visit Qatar website and app. For more details on activities and events that blend tradition with modernity, they can also follow @QatarCalendar on social media.
Visit Qatar signs MoU with Microsoft at Web Summit Qatar 2025 to advance smart tourism solutions
Visit Qatar and Microsoft have formalised their collaboration to drive digital innovation in tourism with a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at Web Summit Qatar 2025 on 25th February. The MoU was signed by Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, and Lana Khalaf, Country Manager of Microsoft, marking the next phase of this partnership. Leveraging the success of the Visit Qatar GenAI Travel Concierge, powered by Microsoft Azure and OpenAI 4o and 4o mini, both entities will explore cutting-edge technologies to enhance visitor experiences and transform business operations. The Smart Travel Assistant from Visit Qatar is a pioneering innovation that seamlessly integrates text, voice, content, a conversational virtual assistant, maps, and an interactive planning interface. This innovation has set new standards for digital excellence in tourism. Visit Qatar and Microsoft are working on developing a comprehensive technology roadmap that aims to enhance the visitor experience through integrated smart and digital solutions.
Visit Qatar participates at Web Summit Qatar 2025
Visit Qatar participates in the second edition of Web Summit Qatar, taking place from February 23 – 26, 2025, at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC). As part of its participation, Visit Qatar is sponsoring the VIP Lounge, providing an exclusive networking space where attendees can experience Qatar’s renowned hospitality. Visit Qatar’s participation highlights its ongoing commitment to technology and digital innovation as key enablers of the tourism sector. This dedication was recently recognized with three prestigious awards, including the Microsoft AI Excellence Award for the Visit Qatar GenAI Travel Concierge and two MENA Digital Awards: The Gold Award for Best Application (Mobile/Tablet) and the Silver Award for Best Web Platform. The Visit Qatar mobile app was recognised with the Gold Award for its seamless integration of the Visit Qatar Pass, which unlocks savings of up to 50% on a wide range of experiences. Building on this success, Visit Qatar continues to drive digital innovation with the latest upgrade of its AI Concierge, introducing a conversational chat interface and engaging visual elements for a more intuitive and immersive experience, from inspiration to planning. This upgrade is designed to cater to diverse visitor profiles, from meticulous planners to spontaneous explorers, and from budget-conscious visitors to luxury seekers. It ensures seamless itinerary planning by addressing the challenges of fragmented booking experiences, consolidating travel resources and offerings in Qatar. Available on both the Visit Qatar website and mobile app, the AI Concierge offers a comprehensive suite of services with advanced GenAI-powered capabilities, including personalized recommendations, dynamically tailored itineraries, and real-time updates about events and cultural experiences, making it a valuable tool for both visitors and the local community. HE Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, said: “Web Summit Qatar 2025 presents a prime opportunity to showcase Qatar’s transformation into a leading global destination for both tourism and business. With significant advancements in digital integration and service excellence, we continue to enhance the visitor journey while strengthening our position as a key MICE hub in the region. Hosting large-scale global events has been instrumental in achieving our goal of becoming one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the Middle East, as recognised by UN Tourism’s World Barometer in December 2024.” Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Qatar, said: “Qatar is a leading global destination with a proven track record of successfully hosting major events and providing its visitors with memorable experiences. MICE is the one of the most important pillars driving growth in Qatar’s tourism sector. This summit not only provides a powerful platform to showcase Qatar’s ability to host world-class events but also facilitates networking, business and investment opportunities, knowledge exchange, and collaboration in innovation and technology. It reinforces our strategic vision of positioning Qatar a premier international MICE destination.” Web Summit Qatar 2025 will bring together top global speakers and thought leaders to discuss key topics in technology and innovation. The event’s five-year tenure in Qatar is a clear reflection of the country’s broader efforts to diversify its economy as part of the Qatar National Vision 2030, positioning Qatar as a leading global hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, technology, and as a premier MICE destination. The summit is a vital catalyst for attracting foreign investment, boosting the tourism industry, and enhancing the country’s business environment.
Qatar International Food Festival 2025 concludes with record-breaking number of visitors
The 14th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) has successfully concluded, attracting more than 365,000 visitors over the course of 11 days. Organised by Visit Qatar, the festival transformed Hotel Park into a vibrant culinary and entertainment hub, delivering a unique gastronomic experience to locals, residents and visitors. A total of 180 vendors participated this year, showcasing Qatar’s rich gastronomic scene, while more than 28 international vendors brought global flavours to the festival, creating a unique fusion of tastes and experiences. For the first time this year, QIFF featured a Michelin Guide Village where guests indulged in exclusive creations from nine Michelin-starred restaurants from around the world. Meanwhile, QIFF Junior, another brand-new activation this year, engaged over 5,000 children, further enhancing the festival’s dynamic atmosphere and reaffirming its position as a premier family-friendly event. This year also featured the debut of QIFF Ring, where visitors participated in lively food competitions, from eating challenges to juice-making and decorating contests. The QIFF Ring hosting 36 competitions, drawing 360 competitors, and awarding over 500 winners, including audience members, with a total of 5,400 attendees. QIFF 2025 also included a Cooking Studio, which hosted interactive workshops led by renowned local and international chefs. In addition, nine renowned chefs hosted exclusive Chef’s Table experiences for over 70 guests in total. Further elevating the festive experience, Dinner in the Sky offered visitors a unique culinary experience, combining gourmet dining with breathtaking views of Doha from 50 metres above ground. Ahmed Hamad Al Binali, Director of Festivals and Events at Visit Qatar, from Visit Qatar commented: “QIFF 2025 has been a resounding success, welcoming more than 365,000 visitors, reaffirming Qatar’s position as a premier culinary and cultural destination. As one of Qatar’s longest-running festivals, QIFF continues to grow each year, introducing new experiences, engaging programming, and innovative themes that captivate both residents and visitors. The festival not only celebrates culinary excellence but also fosters meaningful connections among communities. We extend our appreciation to all visitors, chefs, and partners whose contributions made this edition truly remarkable, and we remain committed to further enhancing Qatar’s events and entertainment offering on a global stage.” Spanning several districts, the festival showcased Qatar’s culinary diversity, from traditional street food to fine dining at Flavours within Qatar. Other districts showcased Latin American specialities and global gourmet delights. The Healthy Corner district highlighted sustainable cuisine, while the Coffee & Bakeries district delighted visitors with artisanal brews and sweet treats. Lastly, the QIFF VIP Area provided an exclusive dining experience. Each year, Visit Qatar partners with Hifz Alnaema Center as part of its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. This collaboration saw the centre collect and package surplus food every evening, distributing parcels to those in need. With record-breaking attendance and a dynamic showcase of food, culture, and entertainment, QIFF 2025 has solidified its status as a flagship event on Qatar’s annual calendar. From captivating musical concerts on the main stage and engaging activities for all ages, QIFF 2025 delivered an immersive celebration of Qatar’s rich culinary and cultural landscape.
