The in-destination tourism spend in Qatar surged by 38% in 2024 to QAR40 billion ($10.97 billion), while the total international visitor numbers crossed five million for the first time.

 

The total number of visitors rose to 5,076,640 in 2024, marking a 25% increase compared to 2023, which saw 4,046,281 visitors.

 

In December alone, Qatar welcomed 594,079 visitors, a 14.6% rise from the previous year and an increase of 74,000 visitors compared to November 2024.

 

The hospitality sector surpassed 10 million hotel nights for the first time, state news agency (QNA) reported on Thursday, citing Qatar Tourism.

 

The growth was driven by an additional 48,000 air travellers and 35,000 land visitors, offsetting a minor decline of 7,000 cruise passengers compared to 2023. Visitor numbers in December also surged by 74,000 compared to November 2024.

 

Qatar’s hospitality sector achieved a new record, surpassing 10 million room nights for the first time. 

 

Visitor demographics revealed a diverse appeal, with GCC nationals accounting for 41% of visitors and the remaining 59% coming from key international markets. Top five countries include Saudi Arabia, India, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States.

 

Saad bin Ali al-Kharji, chairman of Qatar Tourism and chair of the Board of Directors of Visit Qatar said: “Surpassing five million visitors in 2024 is a landmark achievement that underscores Qatar’s evolution into one of the world’s premier family-friendly destinations. As we look ahead, we remain committed to enhancing the visitor experience and achieving our ambitious targets of tripling visitor numbers and significantly increasing tourism’s contribution to GDP by 2030.”

 

One of Doha's major attractions, Msheireb Downtown Doha welcomed over 15 million visitors in 2024, a remarkable increase from the 9 million recorded in 2023, a 66% rise, said Msheireb Properties.

 

It said tram usage in the location also saw impressive numbers, achieving 1 million tram riders this year, further reflecting its growing popularity. The Downtown has successfully attracted both residents and international visitors, offering a wide range of activities for those interested in cultural celebrations, world-class exhibitions, and entertainment.

 

In 2025, Msheireb Downtown Doha will continue offering a variety of events for diverse audiences. Among the exciting events scheduled is Hosh Msheireb at The Company House Courtyard from January 2 to 31, where visitors can experience an outdoor Qatari winter retreat in elegant cabanas with cozy seating and fire pits while enjoying hot beverages and curated snacks. The experience includes a special children's reading corner in collaboration with Qatar Reads, offering young visitors an engaging space to explore literature.

 

The Downtown will also host the Qatar Investment and Innovation Conference on January 15, and the Candy Zone at Sahat Al Nakheel, a unique festival celebrating creativity and fun from January 23 to February 1. Other notable events include Downtown Tech on January 30 and 31 and Qatar National Sports Day on February 11.

 

As part of its ongoing winter season offerings, which will run through February 2025, Msheireb Downtown Doha is hosting the Mal Awal exhibition. This display, located at Sahat Al Nakheel Msheireb, features the history of video games as seen through the eyes of local collectors and runs until April 10, 2025. It has already garnered attention from both gaming fans and those interested in the cultural evolution of this popular pastime.

 

Additionally, Msheireb Downtown will host the Orchestra in Barahat Msheireb performances in collaboration with the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra on February 14, 15 and 19, as well as a series of Ramadan Iftar and Suhoor events on February 29 and March 28.