Qatar’s tourism sector poised for record growth in 2025
Fitch Solutions forecasts 5.3 million tourist arrivals as digital innovation and new attractions drive momentum
DOHA, Qatar (MNTV) – Qatar’s tourism industry is set to achieve another milestone in 2025, with international arrivals projected to reach a record 5.3 million, according to a recent outlook by Fitch Solutions.
The report highlights the sector’s transition into a “new phase of growth,” with continued momentum expected through the 2025–2029 period.
Building on the 5.1 million visitors recorded in 2024, the 2025 forecast represents a 3.5% year-on-year increase.
This would mark the highest-ever figure for the Gulf nation, surpassing the previous peak of 2.94 million in 2015.
Analysts say the post-World Cup tourism surge has been sustained by strong demand from key international markets, alongside coordinated efforts by the Qatari government and private sector to elevate the country’s tourism appeal.
“We expect Qatar’s tourist arrivals to further expand over our medium-term forecast period (2025–2029).
By 2029, we project arrivals to reach 5.7 million, representing an annual average of 2.4 percent growth,” the report stated.
Growth is expected to be supported by rising arrivals from the GCC, Asia-Pacific, Europe, and North America.
Qatar’s ongoing promotional efforts and infrastructure expansion are reinforcing this upward trend.
During the Web Summit Qatar in February 2025, Visit Qatar signed a memorandum of understanding with Microsoft to bolster digital innovation in the tourism sector.
The initiative aims to enhance visitor experiences and streamline operations, building on the success of the AI-powered GenAI Travel Concierge.
That same month, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara unveiled the Banana Island Adventure Park, a new leisure destination featuring panoramic views of Doha and the Arabian Gulf.
The private island attraction—accessible by catamaran—offers the country’s longest zipline, climbing walls, a Giant Swing, and a Human Slingshot, appealing to thrill-seekers and families alike.
In addition, the Moscow City Tourism Committee launched a Middle East roadshow in February to deepen tourism ties with Qatar.
With 14 weekly direct flights between Moscow and Doha, the initiative is expected to strengthen bilateral travel and tourism cooperation.
Qatar also hosted the 2025 edition of the Qatar Kite Festival from January 19 to 25 at Sealine Beach.
The event featured over 60 professional kite flyers from 20 countries and was designed to attract international tourists from priority markets such as France, Belgium, and Mainland China.
The festival showcased iconic locations including Sealine, Hotel Park, and Old Doha Port.
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