Doha, Qatar – Qatar Tourism has recognized outstanding contributions to the nation’s growing hospitality sector with the presentation of the 2023 Qatar Tourism Awards. The awards, held on November 26th at Raffles Doha, celebrated organizations and individuals who are elevating Qatar‘s profile as a premier global destination. This year’s event saw over 1,160 nominations, signaling a strong commitment to service excellence within the industry.
The ceremony was attended by key figures including Chairman of Qatar Tourism, H.E. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji, and Natalia Bayona, Executive Director of the UN Tourism. The awards underscore Qatar’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and establish itself as a major player in the international tourism market, particularly following the successful hosting of the FIFA World Cup 2022.
Qatar Tourism Awards: Recognizing Excellence in a Growing Sector
Launched in 2021, the Qatar Tourism Awards aim to establish benchmarks for quality and innovation across the visitor experience. According to organizers, the program seeks to acknowledge achievements that enhance visitor satisfaction and support the goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030. This national strategy emphasizes economic diversification, with tourism identified as a key area for growth.
H.E. Saad bin Ali Al Kharji emphasized the awards’ role in driving the tourism sector forward. He stated the significant increase in nominations demonstrates a deep-rooted commitment to excellence throughout the industry. This dedication is essential as Qatar continues to attract a wider range of international travelers.
Award Categories Span the Visitor Journey
This year’s awards encompassed seven distinct categories designed to represent all facets of the visitor experience. These included accolades for Service Excellence, Gastronomic Experiences, Iconic Attractions and Activities, World-Class Events, Digital Footprint, Smart and Sustainable Tourism, and Community Leadership. This broad scope acknowledges the collaborative effort required to deliver a world-class destination.
Natalia Bayona of the UN Tourism highlighted the awards’ significance as a platform for leadership and innovation. She noted that the ambition displayed by the winners is indicative of Qatar’s rapid development as a dynamic tourism hub, consistently surpassing pre-pandemic visitor numbers. This growth underscores the effectiveness of Qatar’s investment in its tourism infrastructure and promotion.
A key honor of the evening was the Lifetime Achievement in Tourism award, presented to Akbar Al Baker. The judging panel for the awards comprised ten national and international industry experts, including representatives from the UN Tourism, ensuring a rigorous and impartial selection process. The panel evaluated nominees based on criteria aligned with global best practices in tourism.
The awards come as Qatar continues to focus on attracting diverse tourism segments, including cultural tourists, sports enthusiasts, and those seeking luxury experiences. Initiatives to enhance the accessibility and appeal of the country have been underway since the World Cup, including simplifying visa processes and promoting a wider range of attractions. Travel and tourism in the area are also focusing on eco-tourism and responsible practices.
Looking ahead, Qatar Tourism plans to continue refining the awards program and expanding its reach. The next edition of the awards is expected to build on this year’s success and further encourage innovation and excellence within the hospitality industry. The specifics of the 2024 nomination process and timeline have not yet been announced, but stakeholders are anticipating further details in the new year, especially regarding the continued integration of sustainable tourism principles into the judging criteria.
The overall impact of the awards on shaping future tourism strategies remains to be seen, but they represent a clear signal of Qatar’s commitment to becoming a leading destination for international visitors. Qatar Tourism’s website offers more details regarding initiatives and strategies.
