Doha is the “GCC Tourism Capital” in 2026
Doha is the “GCC Tourism Capital” in 2026 as declared by the committee in charge of it from the member states.
In an effort to improve cooperative tourism among GCC member states, their Excellencies the Ministers in charge of tourism throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council have given their approval to this decision.
The decision comes after Qatar Tourism’s thorough strategic bid, which highlighted Doha’s advantages as a travel destination that strikes a balance between sustainability, urban innovation, cultural authenticity, and quality of life. It also detailed the State of Qatar’s long-term tourism goal.
The offer places tourism as a major engine of sustainable growth and is in line with national priorities centered on economic diversification.
“The choice of Doha as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026 is a significant milestone that highlights the success of our leadership’s strategic vision in establishing tourism as a central pillar of the National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030,” said His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji.
Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, in response to the announcement.
Qatar’s progress
With the help of top-notch infrastructure, robust connections, and a remarkable tourist experience, an integrated and sustainable tourism ecosystem that is competitive on a regional and global scale has been built, and this acknowledgment represents the qualitative progress made in this area.
“With an eye toward 2026, this title offers a strategic platform to further enhance Gulf tourism cooperation, encourage investment, generate new economic opportunities, and deliver a lasting legacy that reinforces Doha’s position as a leading regional tourism hub, particularly in business events, major festivals, large-scale activations, and family-friendly destination,” he continued.
Doha’s sophisticated transportation and mobility infrastructure was one of several critical pillars that supported its selection.
This includes Qatar Airways’ global network that connects Doha to more than 170 locations globally, Hamad International Airport, which is renowned for its operational excellence, and integrated metro and tram systems that facilitate easy visitor transit across the city.
In addition to guaranteeing a competitive and investor-friendly business environment, solid regional and international partnerships, and worldwide promotional campaigns that have raised the nation’s profile on the international tourism map, Qatar has improved its tourism proposition through flexible visa policies via the Hayya platform.
Tourism Diversity in Qatar
The pitch also described Doha’s ability to offer a diverse range of tourism experiences, backed by cutting-edge conference and event hosting facilities and a calender of entertainment, sports, and cultural activities.
The State’s unwavering dedication to sustainability, heritage preservation, the growth of ecotourism, and its expanding leadership position in medical and wellness tourism enhance these strengths.
In the near future, Qatar Tourism and Visit Qatar will provide further information about the “GCC Tourism Capital” initiative in Doha.
In order to create sustained economic and tourist effect and further solidify Doha’s place within the regional and global tourism scene, this will involve collaborative Gulf projects, marketing campaigns, and a year-round program of community, cultural, and entertainment events.
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