Qatar’s tourism sector has seen steady growth in 2025, with a 2.2% increase in the number of visitors compared to last year. By the end of September, the country had welcomed 3.5 million visitors, reflecting continued demand for both accommodation and travel. This growth is expected to continue as Qatar gears up for a busy final quarter, filled with a series of international events and festivals.
Visitor Growth and Key Markets
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations remain Qatar’s largest source of visitors, accounting for 36% of the total arrivals. Europe follows closely behind with 25%, while Asia and Oceania contribute 22%. Notably, visitor numbers from China and Australia saw significant increases in the third quarter, rising by 37% and 31%, respectively.
Air travel continues to be the dominant method of entry, with 60% of visitors arriving by air. A further 33% travel by land, and 7% arrive by sea. This distribution underscores Qatar’s integrated tourism infrastructure, catering to various entry preferences and encouraging a steady flow of international tourists.
Accommodation Sector Performance
As of September 30, Qatar’s accommodation sector showed promising figures. The total number of hotel and hotel apartment rooms reached 41,733, with average occupancy rising to 68%, a 2.4% increase from the previous year. The number of room nights sold surged by 8%, reaching 7.7 million, further evidence of the growing demand for accommodation in the country.
Major Upcoming Events
Qatar is preparing for an exciting series of events in the final quarter of 2025, as part of its 2025-2026 Qatar Calendar. These include international sports tournaments, cultural programmes, and entertainment events. A highlight of the season will be the Doha International Military Music Festival (Doha Tattoo), which will feature military bands from around the world. In addition, Qatar will host the T100 Triathlon World Championship Final in Lusail City, along with the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix at the Lusail International Circuit.
The country is also gearing up for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, and the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025. These major football tournaments will take place in Doha, Lusail, and Al Rayyan, with the Local Organising Committee and Visit Qatar ensuring that all logistics, including accommodation, stadium services, and fan management, are prepared for a seamless experience.
Cultural and Culinary Highlights
In addition to sporting events, Qatar is also positioning itself as a cultural hub. The winter season will feature the second edition of “Sealine Season 2026” and “Brouq Events” in Ras Abrouq. Preparations are also underway for the prestigious “Art Basel Qatar” at the National Museum of Qatar. Cultural and culinary programming will include the Qatar International Food Festival and the Throwback Food Festival, with ongoing activities at popular venues like Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif, and Al Bidda Park.
These events are part of Qatar’s broader strategy to diversify its economy through tourism, supporting the Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030). By increasing access to cultural, sporting, and leisure activities, Qatar is solidifying its position as a global destination for both residents and visitors alike.
For those interested in motorsports, the upcoming FIM Bajas World Cup will also see significant participation, contributing to Qatar’s growing international appeal.
As Qatar enters the final quarter of 2025, the combination of a robust tourism infrastructure, cultural programming, and international events promises to further enhance the country’s attractiveness as a year-round destination for tourists from across the globe.
