Doha named as ‘Arab Tourism Capital’ for 2023

Monday, February 27, 2023

The Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism has recognised Doha as the Arab Tourism Capital 2023 during its 25th session held at the Arab League General Secretariat on December 13. During the event, the Arab Tourism Capital’s key was handed over to Qatar Airlines CEO Akbar Al Baker.

The Qatar Tourism Chairman stated that the region’s first-ever hosting of the FIFA World Cup in 2022 has resulted in an unprecedented rise in tourism in Doha.

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani, attended the formal announcement event of ‘Doha, Arab Tourism Capital 2023’ on Saturday, which coincided with Arab Tourism Day.

Al Baker thanked the Arab Tourist Organization for bestowing the designation on Doha, recognising the nation’s significant efforts to promote and strengthen its tourism industry. The CEO stated that the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup has changed the world’s perception of Qatar and the Arab world, paving the path for a robust tourism sector.

With Qatar Airways being named “Airline of the Year” an unprecedented seven times by the international air transport rating organisation Skytrax, and Hamad International Airport being named “Best Airport in the World 2022” for the second consecutive year by the Skytrax Airport Awards, he noted that Qatar possesses all of the necessary characteristics to be a global hub of tourism.

Al Baker also cited the Gulf nation’s investments in tourism infrastructure, such as the Doha Metro, safe and moderately priced taxis, and other modes of transit.

Prestigious hotels and tourism facilities that mix tradition with smart and modern luxury, as well as numerous places of attractions around the country, are among the infrastructure that Qatari authorities have extensively invested in. But, he stated that more has to be done.

According to Al Baker, the government intends to continue investing in this crucial industry in order to realise Qatar National Strategy 2030 and retain Doha’s standing as the most popular tourist destination.
Meanwhile, Arab Tourist Organization President Bandar bin Fahd Al Fuhaid said Doha’s selection as Arab Tourism Capital for this year is well-deserved, and hailed the city’s cutting-edge facilities and infrastructure as a source of pride for all Arabs.

He also mentioned that the Arab world is getting more interested in the tourism industry, and that $320 billion in investments had been made. 350 million visitors are anticipated to visit the Arab world by 2030.

« Back to Page