Qatar Tourism, in conjunction with the National Day celebrations and the conclusion of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, gave a contemplative look during which it reviewed the oldest landmarks and destinations of Qatar and the latest additions that the tourism sector has witnessed recently, in appreciation of all that Qatar has achieved inside and outside the stadiums. Despite its simple beginnings and the dependence of its economy in the past on pearl hunting, Qatar today is moving steadily towards the future and achieving its National Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Qatari national economy. Therefore, Qatar today has a leading position on the global tourism map, and is expected to become the fastest growing tourist destination in the region by 2030.

Despite its adherence to its cultural heritage and rich culture, Qatar has witnessed unprecedented economic growth over the past few decades, as it has achieved many major achievements and infrastructure projects that emerged from the heart of the desert until it includes the most luxurious international hotels and high-rise towers that currently draw the unique horizon that It is characterized by the city of Doha.

As part of its hosting of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Qatar has embarked on an impressive program of constructing a raft of new hotels, public beaches and shopping centers in recent years, creating a huge boom in the entertainment and hospitality scene that is no longer recognizable compared to the few hotels and shopping malls in the first place. For decades, it has been the most prominent feature of the entertainment and hospitality map in Qatar.

Celebrating the country's journey from its first shopping mall to hosting the world's biggest sporting tournament, Qatar Tourism takes a retrospective look at some of the country's first leisure destinations, such as hotels, museums and parks, and how they have evolved to this day.

Haya Al-Nuaimi, Head of Promotion at Qatar Tourism, said: “Qatar has gone on an amazing construction journey over the past few decades. It started with a small handful of five-star hotels in the 1970s and 1980s, and today it has endless options that stretch across the length of the city. With its modern, world-class facilities, safe environment, and family-friendly activities and events, Qatar has become an ideal choice for tourists of all categories, and is well positioned to achieve its goal of receiving six million visitors annually by 2030."

Gulf Hotel:

Almost fifty years ago, the first 5-star hotel in Qatar opened its doors to the public. The unique architecture has made the Gulf Hotel one of the most prominent and easily recognizable buildings in Doha.

In 2022, Rixos Gulf Hotel Doha opened, the first all-inclusive luxury resort in Qatar and located within the original Gulf Hotel building. This new beach resort offers.

Qatar National Museum:

Museums in Qatar have gained great international fame due to their use of the latest findings of museology within their museums, and these standards were greatly observed when the Qatar National Museum opened in 1975, which later became, with its good design, a song that sings about the country's heritage and culture. Today, the desert rose-inspired building has been renovated and is a stunning addition to Doha's skyline.

First beach:

Qatar's magnificent coastline, clear waters and soft sands provide visitors with some of the most unique natural beaches in the region. Nestled amidst the mangrove forests of the Purple Island, Al Khor Beach is home to thousands of trees and shrubs that turn the water a stunning shade of purple when in full bloom, while the rare limestone formations make Zekreet Beach one of the most beautiful camping spots in the country.

New hotels:

Fairmont Hotel and Raffles Doha are two luxury hotels facing each other through a unique and beautiful design, each of which is 692 feet high. The Fairmont Doha is a distinguished model in design, as it will include the tallest chandelier in the world, while the Raffles Doha Hotel now includes only ultra-luxury suites, each with a charming lobby and butler service. It also offers fine and contemporary dining experiences.