BY RAYNALD C RIVERA
DOHA: Some of the latest camping products and services are showcased at the first Qatar Camping Expo which opened yesterday at Doha Exhibition Centre (DEC).
The event was born out of a “drive to keep the (camping) heritage alive and preserve the authentic icon of the Arab culture,” said Abdullah Alnameh, Chairman of Gulf Marketing & Events, organisers of the expo.
Alnameh expressed confidence that the expo would have a great impact on the economy of Qatar by encouraging camping as a tool to stimulate the tourism sector locally and internationally.
Among the exhibitors are government entities, such as Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) which is showcasing its Ambulance Service.
“As medical partner for the expo, HMC is showcasing its Ambulance Service, including our state-of-the-art 4x4s and other technology that complement the range of support available for desert rescue and emergencies,” said Ali Abdullah Al Khater, Executive Director of HMC’s Corporate Communications Department.
HMC’s booth at the exhibition also includes basic first aid demonstrations for visitors and Ambulance Service staff are on hand to give advice and information.
“HMC plays a vital role during the camping season helping make it safe.
“We have an emergency clinic in the Sealine area with Ambulance Service crews there,” Al Khater added.
Tour operators such as Qatar International Adventures (QIA) are also participating in the expo.
“Participating in this expo for the first time is important for us to let more people know about the services we offer in the field of camping,” said M H M Siham of QIA
QIA is known for its biggest camp site, set up in Mesaieed area since 1995, which can accommodate more than 600 people and is complete with facilities and activities like sand boarding and water sports.
With many events of global scale being hosted in the country, QIA has been witnessing many international companies which avail its services to let participants experience what Qatar has to offer in the field of tourism, added Siham.
Some of the unique products on offer at the expo are cabins and caravans all made in Qatar by Super Cabin company.
Abu Saqer Al Yaffie, General Manager of Super Cabin, said since they started in 2007, their high quality products had been in great demand in Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain.
Made from fibre glass inside and outside, the cabins and caravans are of high quality which can last 20 to 25 years.
Complete with bed, toilet and kitchen, the light and mobile caravan is one of Super Cabin products in demand.
The Peninsula
