Doha: Qatar's tourism sector began 2025 with strong momentum, welcoming over 1.5 million international visitors between January and March. This surge was driven by an integrated tourism strategy that combines high-profile events, strategic partnerships, and diversified destination experiences.
According to Qatar News Agency, Qatar Tourism reported that visitors from GCC countries accounted for 36 percent of the total, followed by Europe with 28 percent and Asia and Oceania with 20 percent. This distribution underscores Qatar's growing appeal across multiple markets. Visitor arrivals were facilitated through air (51 percent), land (34 percent), and sea (15 percent), highlighting the effectiveness of Qatar's diversified access strategy.
Eid Al Fitr 2025 delivered the highest holiday arrival figures in three years, with 214,000 visitors during the 8-day period, marking a 26 percent increase over 2024. GCC visitors made up 49 percent of this total, representing an 18 percent year-on-year increase. Hotel occupancy during this period reached 77 percent, a 10 percent increase from the same period the previous year.
Strong performance across the hospitality sector accompanied this growth, with 71 percent average hotel occupancy and 2.6 million room nights sold. This increase in demand was driven by key events such as Web Summit Qatar, the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE), and the Qatar International Food Festival.
HE Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, stated that the achievements of the first quarter of 2025 reflect the planned outputs of Qatar's long-term approach to tourism development. The strategy includes deepening collaboration across local, regional, and international markets, diversifying source markets, enhancing visitor experiences, and reinforcing Qatar's position as a dynamic, year-round destination. He expressed enthusiasm about welcoming 1.5 million visitors in Q1 and looks forward to hosting more guests throughout the year.