The committee responsible for the GCC Tourism Capital has officially announced Doha as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026, within the framework of strengthening joint tourism cooperation among GCC member states. This decision has been approved by Their Excellencies the Ministers responsible for tourism across the Gulf Cooperation Council.<\/p>\n
The selection follows a comprehensive strategic bid submitted by Qatar Tourism, which outlined the State of Qatar\u2019s long-term vision for tourism and showcased Doha\u2019s strengths as a destination that balances cultural authenticity, urban innovation, sustainability and quality of life. The bid aligns closely with national priorities focused on economic diversification and positions tourism as a key driver of sustainable growth.<\/p>\n
Commenting on the announcement, His Excellency Mr. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar, said: \u201cThe selection of Doha as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026 marks an important milestone that underscores the success of our leadership\u2019s strategic vision in establishing tourism as a central pillar of the National Development Strategy and Qatar National Vision 2030. This recognition reflects the qualitative progress achieved in building an integrated and sustainable tourism ecosystem that is competitive at both regional and global levels, supported by world-class infrastructure, strong connectivity, and an exceptional visitor experience.\u201d<\/p>\n
He added: \u201cLooking ahead to 2026, this title provides a strategic platform to further strengthen Gulf tourism cooperation, stimulate investment, create new economic opportunities and deliver a lasting legacy that reinforces Doha\u2019s position as a leading regional tourism hub; particularly in business events, major festivals, large-scale activations and family-friendly destination.\u201d<\/p>\n
Doha\u2019s selection was underpinned by a set of strategic pillars, including its advanced transport and mobility infrastructure. This encompasses Hamad International Airport, internationally recognised for operational excellence; Qatar Airways\u2019 global network connecting Doha to more than 170 destinations worldwide; and integrated metro and tram systems designed to enable seamless visitor movement across the city.<\/p>\n
Qatar has also enhanced its tourism proposition through flexible visa policies via the Hayya platform, in addition to ensuring a competitive and investor-friendly business environment, strong regional and international partnerships, and global promotional campaigns that have elevated the country\u2019s profile on the international tourism map.<\/p>\n
The bid also outlined Doha\u2019s capacity to provide a varied tourism experience, supported by advanced infrastructure for hosting events and conferences, as well as a calendar of cultural, sporting, and entertainment events.<\/p>\n
These strengths are complemented by the State\u2019s firm commitment to sustainability, heritage preservation, the development of eco-tourism, and a growing leadership position in medical and wellness tourism.<\/p>\n
Qatar Tourism and Visit Qatar are set to announce further details in the coming period regarding the \u201cGCC Tourism Capital\u201d programme in Doha. This will include joint Gulf initiatives, promotional campaigns, and a year-round programme of community, cultural, and entertainment events, designed to deliver sustainable economic and tourism impact and further strengthen Doha\u2019s position within the regional and global tourism landscape.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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