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Photo: Visit Qatar

NEED TO KNOW IN 2026

A landmark development shaping 2025 is the continued evolution of Lusail as a major tourism hub, with new hotels, entertainment zones, and cultural programming reinforcing its role as a focal point for international events. The city is also hosting several high-profile sporting and cultural events, positioning Qatar as a year-round global destination. These developments highlight the country’s commitment to diversifying its visitor offering while supporting seamless experiences for business travellers and incentive groups.

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Photo: Visit Qatar

DID YOU KNOW?

Few visitors know that Qatar is home to one of the region’s most impressive UNESCO-listed natural sites: the Al-Reem Biosphere Reserve, a protected environment that features unique wildlife and desert landscapes. Another hidden gem is the traditional mangrove ecosystem of Al Thakira, where visitors can experience serene kayaking routes at sunrise. Qatar also preserves centuries-old archaeological sites such as Al Zubarah, a historic pearl-diving town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. These lesser-known destinations offer a peaceful contrast to the country’s modern skyline and provide event organisers with distinctive settings for curated, nature-focused activities and cultural excursions.

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Photo: Visit Qatar

BEST INCENTIVE IDEA IN 2026

One of Qatar’s most compelling incentive experiences is a curated desert adventure at Sealine or the Inland Sea, where delegates can enjoy a blend of luxury, culture, and outdoor excitement. A typical programme includes guided dune-bashing, camel encounters, sandboarding, and sunset photography, followed by an exclusive desert Majlis set-up offering local cuisine and live cultural elements. The proximity of the desert to central Doha is only 45 minutes away.

PERFECT GIFT

A meaningful gift to take home from Qatar is a handcrafted piece inspired by local heritage, such as traditional incense burners, artisanal oud blends, or finely crafted Sadu textiles created by Qatari designers. Visitors often appreciate unique items like hand-blended perfumes, local dates, or jewellery pieces inspired by the desert rose. These gifts reflect Qatar’s cultural identity and offer a lasting reminder of the destination’s craftsmanship and hospitality.

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TOP 5 EVENTS IN 2026

1. Art Basel Qatar 2026 – A landmark global art fair bringing leading galleries and collectors to Doha.

2. Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition 2026 – One of the region’s most prestigious luxury showcases.

3. Qatar International Food Festival 2026 – A major culinary celebration drawing global chefs and visitors.

4. MWC Qatar 2026 – A milestone event positioning Qatar as a regional hub for 5G, AI, and emerging digital technologies.

5. Web Summit Qatar 2026 – A world-class tech summit convening the brightest minds, breakthrough startups, and leading industries to accelerate innovation in Qatar.

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QATAR'S FEATURES

NATURAL AND CULTURAL FACTORS

Qatar offers a rich blend of natural landscapes and deep-rooted cultural experiences, providing visitors with an authentic and memorable setting. The destination’s desert terrain, pristine beaches, and protected nature reserves, alongside its futuristic skyline, create a unique backdrop. Culturally, Qatar continues to invest in its world-class museum network, led by the Museum of Islamic Art and the National Museum of Qatar, both of which host exhibitions and cultural programming throughout the year. Msheireb Downtown Doha serves as a hub of Qatari heritage, sustainability, and architecture, while Katara Cultural Village remains a focal point for festivals and performances. Together, these elements offer delegates meaningful opportunities to engage with local traditions, cuisine, art, and storytelling, ensuring an immersive cultural experience.

GENERAL AND TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE

Qatar boasts a highly developed infrastructure supported by consistent long-term national investment. Hamad International Airport, repeatedly recognised as one of the world’s leading airports, offers seamless connectivity and efficient services for international delegates. The country’s public transport network, including the fully integrated Doha Metro, Lusail Tram, and extensive road system, ensures smooth mobility across the city. Key districts such as West Bay, Lusail, and Msheireb are easily accessible and equipped with modern facilities, enabling reliable event logistics. Ongoing infrastructure enhancements, including expanded pedestrian zones and smart mobility solutions, contribute to an exceptionally convenient and well-connected environment for meetings and events.

TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE

Qatar continues to expand its hospitality offering, with new hotels, resorts, and tourism attractions enhancing the visitor journey. The country features a wide spectrum of 4- and 5-star hotels, ranging from internationally renowned luxury brands to boutique properties. Recent developments include beachfront resorts, entertainment and retail districts and wellness-focused retreats that strengthen Qatar’s leisure appeal. Major attractions such as Place Vendôme, Gewan Island, Katara Towers, Lusail Boulevard, and the newly enhanced Doha Port cruise terminal enrich the visitor experience and are easily accessed from all key districts. With diverse dining, retail, cultural, and entertainment options, Qatar offers a comprehensive tourism infrastructure that meets the needs of leisure travellers, families, and business visitors alike.

MEETINGS INFRASTRUCTURE

Qatar has developed a robust meetings and events ecosystem anchored by world-class venues. The Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC) and the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) offer state-of-the-art facilities, flexible halls, advanced AV capabilities, and exceptional accessibility. Leading hotels across Doha provide high-standard conference suites, ballrooms, and breakout spaces suitable for everything from incentive gatherings to large-scale international congresses. Continued investment in digital event infrastructure, hybrid capabilities, and service excellence training ensures the smooth delivery of global events. Qatar’s proven experience hosting major summits, sports competitions, and corporate events reinforces its position as a reliable and world-class meetings destination.

MARKETING BUZZ

Qatar continues to generate strong global visibility through strategic partnerships, major international events, and targeted marketing campaigns. Visit Qatar’s global brand activations and collaborations with leading sports, cultural, and lifestyle platforms, including Formula 1, UEFA, Art Basel, and UFC, have amplified awareness of the destination’s offering. The events calendar remains a key driver, showcasing world-class festivals, concerts, sporting championships, and cultural events that consistently attract international audiences. Digital engagement efforts, including enhanced personalisation through Visit Qatar’s platforms, have strengthened the destination’s connection with travellers. Together, these initiatives have contributed to sustained media attention and strong market momentum.

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Photo: Visit Qatar

QATAR FACT SHEET

Destination population:3,410,000
The number of 4* and 5* category hotel rooms:28,650
The number of 4* and 5* category hotels:130
The size of the largest hall in the city (in m2):40,000
Maximum hall capacity in theatre style (the largest hall in the city)26,326
Banquet hall maximum capacity (the largest hall in the city):10,864
Average internet speed when organising events (Mbps):203
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Photo: Visit Qatar

FIND OUT MORE

Qatar Convention Bureau
24624 Lusail Expy
Doha, Qatar

T: +974 4406 9921
E: info@visitqatar.qa
W: https://visitqatar.com/

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