Qatar Tourism Sector Enhanced by the Launch of ‘Visit Qatar’ TV Channel in Collaboration with Es’hailSat

Published on October 18, 2024

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Qatar’s tourism industry has taken a significant leap forward with the launch of the Visit Qatar TV channel, a groundbreaking initiative that showcases the country’s diverse travel offerings and robust events calendar. The new channel, launched in partnership with Es’hailSat, Qatar’s premier satellite company, is set to broadcast across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, elevating Qatar’s position as a leading global travel destination.

The agreement for the dedicated Visit Qatar channel was signed during a special event between Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, Chief Executive Officer of Visit Qatar, and Mr. Ali Bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari, CEO of Es’hailSat. The channel will be available via Es’hail-2 satellite, located at the 26° East hotspot, a position known for its wide coverage and large viewership across MENA.

Promoting Qatar’s Attractions and Culture to the World

The launch of the Visit Qatar TV channel aims to amplify the country’s tourism strategy by offering potential visitors a detailed glimpse into the cultural, historical, and modern attractions Qatar has to offer. The channel will feature content that highlights the country’s unique landscapes, luxury hotels, dining experiences, world-class sports facilities, and bustling cultural festivals. It will also keep viewers informed about ongoing and upcoming events throughout the year, reinforcing Qatar’s appeal as a year-round destination.

Eng. Abdulaziz Ali Al-Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “Qatar is an exciting global travel destination and has been receiving millions of visitors annually from across the globe over the past few years. This partnership with Es’hailSat for a dedicated tourism TV channel will showcase the diversity of the country’s tourism offering and promote its robust calendar of events.”

Bringing Qatar’s Attractions to Hotel Rooms

The new channel is expected to have a significant impact on visitor engagement, as hotels throughout Qatar will feature Visit Qatar on their in-room television systems. Guests will have the opportunity to explore various tourism offerings, from the country’s natural beauty to its urban splendor, all from the comfort of their hotel rooms. This seamless integration ensures that travelers can easily stay informed about local attractions and plan their itineraries, enhancing their overall experience during their stay.

Mr. Ali Bin Ahmed Al-Kuwari, CEO of Es’hailSat, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “Es’hailSat is delighted to power Visit Qatar’s TV channel and showcase the most attractive travel and tourist destinations across the State of Qatar via its satellite hotspot. We believe that Es’hailSat’s experience in providing advanced satellite services to the public and private sector in State of the Qatar, in addition to premier broadcasters across the Middle East and North Africa, aligns perfectly with Visit Qatar’s objective of enabling the development of the tourism sector through new initiatives.”

Strengthening Qatar’s Tourism Industry

The introduction of the Visit Qatar TV channel follows a record-breaking year for Qatar’s tourism industry. In 2023, the country welcomed an unprecedented four million visitors, and the positive trend has continued in 2024. By September 2024, Qatar had already surpassed 3.7 million visitors, a 28% increase compared to the same period the previous year.

Much of Qatar’s tourism growth can be attributed to its appeal as a favored destination among residents of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Nationals and residents from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman are drawn to Qatar’s family-friendly environment, easy accessibility via land, air, and sea, and the wide range of activities on offer. These factors have made Qatar a top choice for weekend getaways, extended holidays, and cultural trips.

Visit Qatar’s partnership with Es’hailSat is designed to build on this momentum, allowing the country to reach a broader international audience through satellite broadcasting. As the channel begins its journey, it is expected to play a vital role in increasing international visitor demand by showcasing Qatar’s luxurious hotels, shopping centers, sports venues, and cultural heritage.

Es’hailSat’s Role in Driving Qatar’s Tourism Forward

Es’hailSat, the organization powering this new initiative, is well-established in the region, offering a range of satellite services that cater to broadcasters, telecommunications companies, and government entities across MENA. With over 15 years of experience and a robust infrastructure that includes two satellites positioned at the strategic 25.5/26 East location, Es’hailSat ensures reliable and independent connectivity across the region.

The Visit Qatar TV channel will benefit from Es’hailSat’s advanced technology and wide reach, allowing Qatar’s tourism content to be broadcast to millions of viewers in key regional markets. This collaboration marks a significant step in Visit Qatar’s efforts to promote Qatar as a premier tourist destination while leveraging the latest satellite technologies to broaden its global appeal.

Looking Ahead

With the launch of the Visit Qatar TV channel, the country’s tourism sector is poised for further growth and international recognition. As Qatar continues to evolve as a premier destination for family-friendly travel, luxury experiences, and cultural exploration, the new channel is expected to strengthen its presence in the competitive global tourism market.