DOHA: The tourism industry in Qatar has continued registering strong growth in the first half of current year.
Total visitor arrivals grew by 8 percent in the first half of 2014, reaching 1.42 million, according to Qatar Tourism Authority’s (QTA) first half 2014 report. More than half a million GCC nationals (536,264) visited Qatar, representing 38 percent of tourists.
“The report demonstrates Qatar’s progress towards becoming a developed and sustainable tourism destination,” said Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Development Officer, QTA.
“Confidence in Qatar’s tourism sector remains buoyant and our efforts continue to bear fruit in terms of promoting and developing it.
“The launch in February of Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030 provides a framework for all stakeholders on how we will contribute to moving Qatar towards a prosperous future and one that is less dependent on oil and gas resources,” he added.
In the past, QTA has counted on business visas and tourist visas exclusively, along with arrivals of GCC nationals, for visitor statistics.
Based on a review, in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Development Planning and Statistics, the United Nations World Tourism Organisation and Oxford Economics, a leading developer of global tourism statistical systems, QTA has adopted a revised and more accurate reporting methodology.
The figures now incorporate all visit visa types issued by the Ministry of Interior (a total of 14), which more accurately reflect the visitor numbers.
All reporting will take into account the expanded range of visas in line with international standards.
“The healthy growth demonstrates Qatar’s transformation into one of GCC top business, family, and leisure destinations” said Al Ibrahim.
“We have to look beyond mere numbers and make a strategic shift towards quality tourism. This will emphasise hospitality, high standards of service, innovative developments and attractions grounded in Qatari culture and tradition,” he added.
In the first half of 2014, the average hotel occupancy rate rose to 74 percent from 67 last year, assisted by a 1.9 percent decrease in available rooms due to renovation-related closures.
Total revenue at four- and five-star hotels increased by 4 percent, reaching QR1.98bn, while total revenue at three- star hotels reached QR82.51m in a growing area of the hotel market.
Average Room Rate (ARR)was estimated at QR721 for five-star, QR389 for four-star, QR277 for three-star, QR273 for two-star, and QR212 for one-star hotels.
ARR softened in five-star hotels, in particular, relative to prior-year levels (QR814), which were high compared to regional benchmarks.
However, revenue per available room increased by 8.5 percent to QR544 across five-star hotels and by 4.5 percent to QR455 across four-and five-star hotels.
The Peninsula
