Qatar tourism expected to boost economy by $25 billion this year

Reading time: 2 minutes

Qatar’s tourism sector witnessed a significant boom in the first half of 2024, with a remarkable 28% increase in the number of international visitors, according to the latest Qatar Tourism report.

Data shows that the number of international visitors jumped to 2.6 million, a substantial increase from previous years. This growth is largely attributed to the AFC Asian Cup in Qatar, which played a key role in attracting tourists to the region. The tournament not only attracted sports fans but also showcased Qatar’s hospitality and infrastructure on the world stage.

Of the 2,639,000 international visitors, 51% arrived by air, 40% by land and 9% by sea. The diversity of transport modes reflects the country’s increased connectivity and appeal. The increase in visitor numbers had a notable impact on the hospitality sector, with demand for overnight stays reaching an unprecedented 4.9 million. This represents a 55% increase from the 3.1 million overnight stays recorded during the same period in 2019.

This impressive increase in visitor numbers and demand for overnight stays underscores Qatar’s growing appeal as a major tourism destination. This influx has also been supported by strategic investments in tourism infrastructure, including new hotels, improved transport links and enhanced cultural attractions. As Qatar continues to benefit from mega-events such as the AFC Asian Cup, it is poised to further consolidate its position as a key player in the global tourism industry.

The first half of 2024 not only highlights the success of Qatar’s tourism sector, but also sets a promising precedent for the remainder of the year, positioning the country for sustained growth and international recognition.