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Increased number of GCC visitors boost Qatar tourism sector

The tourism sector in Qatar is witnessing steady growth, with increased number of visitors from the GCC visiting Qatar, reveals the latest statistics from Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA).

According to the third quarter results by QTA, a 4percent growth in hotel occupancy rates was noticed, in comparison to the figures of 2010. The four and five star hotel revenues also saw increase in revenues during the summer months, indicating the strong interest in the sector within the region.

There was 24percent rise in visitor numbers from the nearby GCC nations including UAE and Saudi Arabia. In fact, the visitor numbers from GCC grew from 178,245 recorded in the third quarter of 2010, to 221,793 in 2011.

According to Chairman of QTA, Ahmed Al Nuaimi, the growth in hotel revenues and visitor figures reflects the strong local tourism during the month of Ramadan, particularly, the food and beverage sector, which saw 216 percent growth in revenue.

In fact, the five star hotels category, recorded 11 percent growth in revenue, which indicates that expenditure on hotels by people, particularly on food and beverage is increasing.

At present, there are 11 new developments under construction in Qatar, which contributes a total of 21,988 new rooms to the country. These new facilities comprise 74 hotels with 16,811 hotel rooms and 44 serviced apartments, Al Nuaimi said.

The sector still continues to diversify and grow. This indicates improved investor confidence in the hospitality sector in Qatar and the strategy and direction of the tourism sector, he said.

Posted on 15/11/2011