Qatar Tourism and Mwani Qatar announced the return of the 2022/2023 cruise season, with a forecast of more than 50 cruise liners with approximately 200,000 visitors from now until the end of April this year.
Over the season, cruise liner passengers will be welcomed at the Cruise Terminal, a newly-designed infrastructure that pays homage to classic Arabian architecture. Docking in Doha Port, passengers will witness the newly renovated port that recently served as home to major international cruise liners offering floating accommodation for thousands of international fans during the FIFA World Cup™ tournament, including the MSC World Europa, MSC Opera and MSC Poesia.
Mina District
Located at the port is the Mina District, one of Qatar’s latest tourism destinations where residents and visitors can enjoy a diverse offering of restaurants and retail outlets or a refreshing stroll by the sea. For international passengers, the port is ideally situated within a short distance of iconic landmarks such as the National Museum of Qatar, Souq Waqif, Msheireb Downtown Doha, and the Doha Corniche, where visitors can also take in stunning views of the city’s skyline.
According to Qatar Tourism Head of Tourism Product Support Maryam Saoud, Qatar’s cruise sector has a history of less than a decade, yet the sector has grown tremendously and now contributes an important pillar to the country’s tourism strategy.
We’re seeing continued, increasing preference for Qatar as a destination for both regular cruise calls and cruises with turnaround calls.
Indeed, Doha Port’s strategic location in the heart of the city is truly unique and offers visitors an excellent opportunity to make the most out of their time in Doha. Saoud said they are ready to welcome thousands of new travellers who are guaranteed a distinct tourism experience in Qatar through the different tourism products on offer, in collaboration with strategic partners.
Making Qatar the most sought-after destination in the region
Hamad Ali Al Ansari, Manager of Public Relations and Communications at Mwani Qatar, said that Qatar continues to strengthen its position as a leading tourism destination in the region, in line with the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030. He said that at Mwani Qatar, they are proud to work with stakeholders and cruise lines to ensure that these goals are achieved and are working towards making Qatar the most sought-after cruise destination in the region.
As part of the renovation work undertaken in Doha Port’s infrastructure and after further expanding and dredging the navigational channel and port docks to reach deeper depths, Mwani Qatar can now receive mega cruise vessels.
Indeed, Doha Port is being developed to become one of the main tourist attractions in the region.
Al Ansari said they look forward to another successful tourism season that will contribute to strengthening the cruise industry and maintain Qatar’s position as a leading tourism hub in the region.
In every cruise season, we always make sure that travellers are receiving the best services and the most enjoyable experiences at every step of their journey, and in a safe environment.
In addition to the attractions in and around the Mina District, passengers will enjoy a busy calendar of events prepared by Qatar Tourism in this year. Already, Qatar Tourism announced the return of the much-anticipated Doha Jewellery and Watch Exhibition next month.
Cruise ships and passengers are expected to follow the health guidelines issued by the Ministry of Public Health.
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