How to sell: Qatar
New direct flights from the UK and continued investment in its tourism offering is helping Qatar make its mark in the Middle East, Benjamin Coren reports
Why sell it now?
With Qatar Airways adding new twice-daily flights to its Doha hub from Gatwick Airport this summer, and new direct daily flights from Cardiff taking off in May, Qatar can expect a boost to its inbound UK numbers. The new routes mark the airline's fifth and sixth UK destinations alongside Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh, making the destination more accessible to Brits than ever.
Last year it was announced that nationals of 80 countries were eligible for visa-free entry, without prior application or fees. This has made Qatar the most open country in the region.
Qatar will also be running a mega-fam this November – register your interest by emailing uk-marketing@visitqatar.qa.
Who to sell to
Qatar is quickly establishing itself as a city break destination thanks to its capital, Doha. It's not short on things to see and do, including its Museum of Islamic Art, a vibrant, traditionalstyle souq and a buzzing sports, arts and culinary scene. It's home to sandy beaches and desert landscapes, so whether it's an actionpacked break, a sunny beach escape, or culture and cuisine, Qatar is suitable as a holiday in its own right or as a stopover destination for those heading to the Indian Ocean, Asia or Australia.
What to sell
Top attractions include the Pearl-Qatar, a manmade island buzzing with cafes and restaurants, and the desert. Adrenalin junkies won't want to miss a dune-bashing experience in a 4WD, followed by a feast in a desert camp.
Some great ways to get to know Qatar include the Doha Bus, a tour which stops at the Katara Cultural Village, or a trip out on a traditional wooden dhow.
The thrilling, but slightly bizarre, spectacle of camel racing at the Al Shahaniya track with remote-controlled jockey robots is another must.
History buffs should head to Al Zubarah on Qatar's north-west coast. The restored 18th century fort and ruins are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a glimpse into how life once was in Qatar.
After sunset, a popular spot to hang out is Souq Waqif for food and people-watching.
What's new
There are two hotels opening this April. Mandarin Oriental, Doha in Musheireb (adjacent to the Souq Waqif and near the city's business centre) offers the usual elegantly-styled guestrooms and suites as well as apartments and a spa. The five-star Al Najada Doha Hotel by Tivoli is located within walking distance of many major attractions.
The National Museum of Qatar is set to open this year to much pomp, showcasing Qatar's past and future. It will also feature a dedicated food forum for preserving culinary traditions.
Shopping got a boost in 2017 with the opening of the Mall of Qatar, Doha Festival City Mall and Al Hazm Mall.
When to sell
Qatar has plenty going on, from March's Qatar Motorcycle Grand Prix or Qatar International Food Festival, featuring over 60 diverse food stalls, to November's Dhow festival.
This year's Ramadan takes place May 15 to June 14. It can place some restrictions on activities, although many hotels and restaurants hold excellent Iftar feasts at sundown.