Qatar Tourism and CLIA Establish Partnership

Qatar Tourism and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) UK & Ireland have announced a partnership that will enhance Qatar’s brand awareness across the region and with CLIA’s wider community of cruise lines, travel agents and stakeholders.

As part of the partnership, Qatar Tourism will be one of the main headline sponsors of the CLIA Selling Cruise Day on November 4 in Southampton and will also sponsor the annual CLIA Cruise Forum in December.

An extensive tourism development is under way in Qatar as the country works to diversify and build upon its offerings and broaden its appeal for visitors ahead of and beyond the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and achieve its long-term goal of becoming a world-class destination and welcome more than 6 million visitors a year by 2030. A host of new hotels and hotel apartments, activities, theme parks, shopping malls and major projects have recently opened or are currently under construction, ensuring travelers will enjoy the very best of Qatar.

As of July 12, Qatar reopened its borders to fully vaccinated international travelers by vaccines approved for use by the Ministry of Public Health. Qatar’s reopening is a major milestone for the country, gearing up to host the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 next year.

“We’re very excited to welcome Qatar Tourism to the CLIA family,” said Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland Managing Director. “Their support for the trade is a clear indication they are looking to build positive cruise momentum. The region was proving increasingly popular with cruisers, and we’re all looking forward to seeing ships start visiting the exceptional facilities of the Doha port and its surroundings again.”

“As Qatar has re-opened its borders, we are looking forward to welcoming back cruise travellers from around the globe,” said Berthold Trenkel, Chief Operating Officer of Qatar Tourism. “Qatar is a fantastic destination for every type of traveler. It is the safest and one of the most cosmopolitan destinations in the Middle East, rich in art, culture and tradition. With a range of assets including world class hotels, restaurants, stunning beaches and a bustling atmosphere, we offer the best of the Middle East all in one place.

“Adventure-seekers can enjoy the thrill of dune bashing across the desert, cultural enthusiasts can explore our world-famous museums and galleries, and there is a variety of fine dining options serving local and international cuisine to suit all tastes. Qatar defies expectations.”

In 2019/2020, Qatar welcomed 207,000 cruise visitors to Doha. With the Doha port undergoing a multi-millionpound refurbishment recently, the destination has set its sights on meeting and exceeding this number moving forward in the 2021/2022 season, starting November.

A new partner on board brings more choices on shore.

Two paths coming together with a steady goal can broaden horizons for all. Through a shared vision and passion for the cruise industry, Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) and ExcursionInsurance.com have joined paths.

As the new administrator of the FCCA Global Tour Operator Insurance Program, ExcursionInsurance.com provides tour operators with the coverage they need to grow their business—and enhance the destination experience.

To learn more about how this partnership can benefit you, contact our experts today.

Ken Furlow

Global Development Officer M: 786.351.3408 ken@excursioninsurance.com