Qatar Welcomes Record Number of Tourists in First 8 Months of 2023!

On Sunday, Qatar Tourism (QT) announced that from January to August 25, 2023, the State of Qatar received more than 2.56 million visitors. This figure surpasses the total number of visitors for the entire year in 2022 and represents a remarkable 157% increase compared to the same period in the previous year.

The statement said that the increase in tourism is a testament to Qatar's growing reputation as a top travel destination. This is due in part to the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, which put Qatar on the map for international tourists.

The tourism sector in Qatar has also benefited from the extension of the Hayya card for existing holders and the relaunch of the Hayya platform, which is now the main platform for travelers who need a visa to enter Qatar.

The top 10 countries of origin for visitors to Qatar are Saudi Arabia, India, Germany, USA, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, UK, UAE, and Pakistan.

Reflecting on the growth of visitor arrivals to Qatar, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive HE Akbar Al Baker said: "The growth in the number of international visitors to Qatar shows the fruit of Qatar Tourism's strategy to leverage the momentum of the world's biggest sporting event late last year. By focusing on our priority markets and through a multi-pronged approach, which sees strong efforts and initiatives across our strategic pillars, we have been able to welcome visitors from all corners of the globe and showcase Qatar’s seamless blend of modernity and cultural authenticity."

In recent months, Qatar Tourism has launched a number of campaigns and initiatives to promote tourism in the country and raise awareness of its growing hospitality industry.