QTA Chairman Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi addressing the forum.
DOHA: Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) Chairman Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi has outlined Qatar’s leading role in developing the cruise tourism industry in the Gulf region.
Al Mohannadi was speaking before 200 regional ministers, tourism leaders and leading cruise and industry professionals at the Seatrade Middle East Cruise Forum in Abu Dhabi.
“The presence of a home port for cruise lines would enhance not only Qatar but the Gulf’s position as a tourist destination and promote economic diversity. As the tourism industry develops in Qatar and across the Gulf, the cruise market can be a pillar of growth that accelerates our efforts and brings more people to discover the products on offer,” he said.
He urged cruise operators to cooperate with local tourism offices to promote cruise tours for the Gulf citizens to encourage regional tourism on board of the cruises.
On transforming the Doha Port to a cruise terminal, the Chairman noted it would be possible convert the port into a tourist destination that contains a residential area, a large retail shopping area, a hotel and restaurants.
Cruise tour operators welcomed the idea of transforming the current port due to its location at the heart of tourist destinations such as the Museum of Islamic Art, Souq Waqif, Musheireb, the Corniche, The National Museum and its proximity to Hamad International Airport, which will facilitate the transportation of tourists from and to the cruises. The surroundings of the port are a key factor in attracting cruises, and falls in line with the operation of tourist ships as they dock in the harbours for four to eight hours during which passengers are given the chance to visit a large number of tourist sites in Doha.
“We are aware of the importance of cruise industry and are working towards making significant investments in infrastructure to meet the opportunity and drive demand in the region.
“QTA aims to play a major role in developing regional itineraries and facilities in order to make the Gulf region an attractive route to the cruise industry as it gains in prominence as a cruise location,” he said.
The Peninsula
