Doha: The State of Qatar, represented by Qatar Tourism, is set to host the 51st UN Tourism Regional Commission for the Middle East in Doha on February 12. The event will gather tourism ministers, senior officials, and experts from various countries in the region, along with leadership from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).

According to Qatar News Agency, Qatar Tourism emphasized that selecting Doha as the host city highlights Qatar's rising prominence as a regional and global hub in the tourism sector. It also showcases the country's leadership role in promoting regional and international cooperation, especially following its recent success in hosting major global events, such as the FIFA World Cup 2022.

During the meeting, UN Tourism will present reports on the sector's performance for the 2024-2025 period, with discussions on future policies and plans. HE Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, stated that hosting the 51st meeting demonstrates Qatar's commitment to enhancing regional cooperation and developing tourism as a key driver of economic and social growth. He expressed confidence that the meeting will further regional cooperation in tourism, allowing for the exchange of ideas and expertise across the region.

The event will also feature a conference titled "Sports Tourism and the Tourism Industry Post-World Cup" on February 13 at the Sheraton Grand Doha Resort and Convention Centre. This conference will include experts and specialists discussing the impact of major sporting events on tourism in the Middle East, their role in fostering sustainable tourism, and the use of technology to enhance the sports tourism experience. The focus will be on Qatar and its neighboring countries' efforts to establish the Middle East as a global sports tourism destination and the role of sports in enhancing destination branding, drawing on Qatar's successes and lessons learned.