Surge in Outbound Winter Travel Fueled by Evolving Tourist Preferences and New Destinations"

As the year's final quarter unfolds, a noticeable uptick in outbound travel is evident, driven by a shift in traveler preferences and a desire to explore novel destinations, as highlighted by multiple tourism experts in Qatar.

Compared to 2022, this winter season has witnessed a substantial increase in travel bookings, spurred by enticing outdoor activities, favorable weather conditions, and reduced travel restrictions.

According to insights shared with The Peninsula by Ahmed Atta, Sales Manager at Victoria Travels, Moscow and Riyadh stand out as the most visited cities for tourism this winter. Atta mentioned, "The destinations most booked during this quarter showcase global diversity, encompassing favorites like London, Paris, Geneva, and Vienna, along with emerging hotspots like Phuket, Tbilisi, and Baku. These destinations, offering a blend of cultural experiences and natural attractions, have gained popularity, particularly those hosting special events and festivals."

Atta emphasized that Qatar's tourism industry is experiencing significant growth, supported by major events such as Expo 2023 Doha and the upcoming AFC Asian Cup. He stated, "These events not only attract many international visitors but also contribute to the growth of the local economy. Infrastructure developments and investments in tourism have contributed to making Qatar a leading destination in the region."

The expert expressed optimistic expectations for the growth of outbound tourism in the coming year, attributing the diverse city inclusion in travel itineraries to a growing interest in exploring a variety of destinations.

According to Atta, "Bookings for January 2024 and beyond are on the rise, driven by factors such as easing travel restrictions, diverse cultural offerings, and a desire for new and unique travel experiences."

However, Ali Thabet, an expert in travel affairs and the General Manager of Milano Travels & Tours, highlighted challenges related to location and pricing diversity for residents this winter compared to the previous year. As for January reservations, he noted that it is too early to determine the percentage increase, stating, "The beginning is promising." Thabet also emphasized that offers from the country and Qatar Airways for holiday seasons will continue to exert a significant impact on outbound tourism.