Qatar’s tourism sector recorded strong growth in the first half of 2025, attracting more than 2.6 million international visitors between January and June, a 3% rise from the same period last year, according to Qatar Tourism. Visitors from GCC countries accounted for 36% of arrivals, followed by Europe (26%), Asia and Oceania (22%), and 7% each from the Americas and other Arab nations. Arrivals came via air (57%), land (33%), and sea (9%), underscoring the success of the country’s multi-access entry strategy.
Hotels Achieve Higher Occupancy
The hospitality sector saw an average occupancy rate of 71%, up two percentage points year-on-year. A total of 5.23 million hotel nights were sold in the first half, marking a 7% increase from H1 2024. In 2024, tourism contributed QR55 billion ($15.1 billion) to GDP, representing 8% of the economy — a 14% rise from 2023 — keeping the nation on track to meet its Tourism Strategy 2030 target of 10–12% GDP contribution.
Campaigns and Events Drive Growth
Visit Qatar launched multiple international campaigns in H1 2025, including the “Moments Made for You” summer campaign, a promotional film with David Beckham, and expanded stopover promotions in key markets such as the UK, USA, South Africa, China, and Australia. Major events such as the Qatar Toy Festival, Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, International Food Festival, and seasonal attractions also boosted visitor numbers.
Packed Calendar for H2 2025
The remainder of the year will feature high-profile events including the launch of the 2025/2026 Cruise Season in November, T100 Triathlon World Championship Finals, FIFA Arab Cup 2025, Grand Prix 2025, Tourism Awards 2025, and the unveiling of the Michelin Guide Doha 2026.
CEO of Visit Qatar Abdulaziz Ali Al Mawlawi said the results reflect “sustained momentum and growing confidence from regional and global markets in Qatar’s tourism offerings.” He emphasised the country’s commitment to expanding events, campaigns, and tourism products to position Qatar as a year-round global destination “blending authenticity with modernity.”
