Qatar targets MICE market

The campaign was launched today at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai by the Qatar Tourism Authority.

'Qatar is one of the safest countries in the world and that opinion is supported by the fact that the country has recently hosted internationally recognised conferences, exhibitions and events, including the 9th Islamic Summit (2000), the 2001 WTO meeting, the emergency Islamic Summit meeting (2003) and the Qatar Golf Masters,' said David Tewelde, General Manager, QGTA.

'Qatar is also emerging as a leading modern country with a substantial place in the expanding international business market and flourishing tourism based on the hosting of major international MICE events, such as the forthcoming Asian Games 2006.

'Qatar is moving swiftly towards modernisation, however despite this trend, it holds on to its culture and heritage with a tenacity that lends it unique charm and allure. Visitors can enjoy state-of-the-art facilities while immersing themselves in an aura of Bedouin charm reminiscent of Qatar's heritage.'

The QTA launched its first MICE guide to Qatar at Arabian Travel Market. The guide was produced by Nicholas Publishing International (NPI) and is set to become an annual publication.

Highly professionally produced with photographs, the guide contains facts on Qatar, such as the population, climate, information on outdoor pursuits, hotels, shopping, exhibitions, the Doha Golf Club, tour operators and a calendar of events.

'We hope that internationally this will become the trade manual for Qatar,' said Tewelde.

'This publication is dedicated to promoting Qatar as the perfect venue for international MICE events and claims that not only does Qatar have the enviable advantage of being located in between Europe and the Far East, but is also one of the safest and most secure countries in the world.

'The country's world-class facilities reflect Qatar's commitment to attracting business travellers of the highest calibre. But what makes Qatar unique in comparison to other fast developing countries is its will to preserve its history and heritage.'

This year marks the QTA's second participation in the annual Arabian Travel Market. Qatar's participation this year has been substantially expanded - to a 135 square metre pavilion designed along the lines of Doha's Al Bidda Park Arches - and features a double-storey stand, complete with VIP hospitality lounge and a majlis.

Some 17 partners are sharing the pavilion and a 35-strong delegation from Qatar is manning the stands. Last year the pavilion featured 14 sharing partners and 23 delegates.

The pavilions' sharing partners this year include: Qatar Tourism Authority; Qatar National Hotels Company; The Ritz Carlton Hotel; Sheraton Doha Hotel & Resorts; Doha Marriott Hotel; InterContinental Hotel; Ramada Hotel; Rydges Plaza Hotel; Movenpick Hotel Doha; Doha Golf Club; Travco Qatar Holidays; Desert Adventures; Gulf Adventures; Net Tours Qatar; Arabian Adventures; Alpha Tours.

Ends