Doha, Qatar – A recent initiative by the “hour and hour” programme, supported by Qatar Museums and Al Sailiya Sports Club, focused on boosting domestic tourism through a dedicated exploration of Qatar’s cultural and historical sites. The “Tourist Destinations” activity, held at the historic Ain Mohammed Village, specifically targeted senior citizens, aiming to connect them with the nation’s heritage and enhance Qatar’s standing as a regional tourism hub. The event took place as part of the ongoing Qatar Heritage Festival.
The activity, which concluded recently, saw senior citizens participating in an interactive program designed to showcase prominent landmarks across Qatar. Organizers say the initiative builds on previous editions targeting students and individuals with special needs, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive tourism experiences. The location, Ain Mohammed Village, was chosen to emphasize the authenticity of Qatari heritage.
Enhancing Qatar’s Tourism Sector with Senior-Focused Initiatives
The “Tourist Destinations” activity represents a strategic effort to diversify Qatar’s tourism offerings and stimulate internal travel. According to Tamani Al-Yafie, CEO of the hour and hour programme, the initiative aims to support the tourism economy by encouraging residents to explore their own country. This approach aligns with national goals to reduce reliance on international visitors, particularly in light of global travel fluctuations.
A Focus on Cultural Preservation
Ain Mohammed Village, the chosen location for the activity, holds significant historical importance. The village provides a tangible link to Qatar’s past, offering participants a glimpse into traditional Qatari life. The selection of this site underscores the programme’s commitment to preserving and promoting the nation’s cultural identity.
The programme’s interactive format included educational activities designed to deepen participants’ understanding of Qatar’s history and geography. This hands-on approach contrasts with traditional sightseeing tours, fostering a more immersive and engaging experience. Additionally, the initiative sought to strengthen partnerships with private sector entities and cultural institutions to further develop local tourism content.
Building on Previous Successes
The “Tourist Destinations” activity is the third iteration of a programme that began in August with a focus on school children and individuals with special needs. A second edition in November targeted secondary and university students. This phased approach allows organizers to refine the program based on feedback and adapt it to different demographics. The expansion to include senior citizens demonstrates a broadening scope and a commitment to serving diverse segments of the population.
However, the long-term impact of these initiatives on Qatar’s overall cultural tourism numbers remains to be seen. While the programme has successfully engaged specific groups, broader marketing efforts and infrastructure improvements will be crucial to attracting a wider range of visitors. The Ministry of Tourism has previously indicated plans to invest in developing new tourism infrastructure and promoting Qatar as a year-round destination.
Meanwhile, the hour and hour programme is exploring opportunities to expand its reach and develop new activities. Al-Yafie stated that future initiatives may focus on specific themes, such as Qatari cuisine or traditional crafts. The programme is also considering collaborations with other organizations to offer more comprehensive tourism packages.
Looking ahead, the success of this programme will likely be measured by its ability to generate sustained interest in domestic tourism and contribute to the growth of Qatar’s tourism sector. The next steps involve evaluating participant feedback and analyzing data to assess the programme’s effectiveness. A report detailing the findings is expected to be released in the coming months, providing insights into future strategies and potential areas for improvement.
