Qatar welcomed 253,191 cruise visitors during its 2022/23 season - an increase of 151% compared to the previous season

Qatar continues to dazzle as a significant international travel destination because to its portfolio of attractions, which leads the market, and its ongoing calendar of events. According to recent information from Qatar Tourism (QT), the nation received 253,191 cruise guests during its 2022–2023 season (December 2022–March 2023), a rise of 151% over the previous season, or the equivalent of 100,500 people.

This year's cruise season started later than normal (in December rather than October), as the Doha Port was hosting floating hotels for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 event to accommodate guests and spectators. This substantial increase in visitor numbers is all the more astounding in light of this fact.

Turnaround passengers made up 37,144 of the total cruise guests welcomed this season, a 790% increase over the 4,172 passengers from the previous season. A total of 54 calls, including transit and turnaround stops, were made to Qatar during the 2022–2023 cruise season, a 59% increase from the previous year.

Despite the difficulties caused by the COVID-19, Qatar's cruise industry has demonstrated amazing endurance and development. The country has witnessed a steady rise in the number of cruise ship arrivals and passengers, and the sector is positioned for future expansion.

The recently completed significant refurbishment of the country's Doha Port, which can now accommodate two megaships at a time and up to 12,000 people each day, makes clear that the country's thriving cruise industry is essential to how it expects to fulfil its long-term tourist ambitions.

The majority of cruise travellers during this season came from Germany, accounting for 31%, followed by Italy, 10%, Russia, 6%, and the United Kingdom, 3%. The country was able to welcome a 100% increase in mega ships because to Doha Port's enlarged capacity (44 were welcomed this season, compared to 22 the season before), with MSC World Europa bringing in the most people (13 total visits).

The next Qatar Cruise Season 2023–2024 will start on October 8. A brand-new Grand Terminal with cutting-edge amenities welcomes cruise passengers arriving in Qatar through Doha Port. Upon leaving, tourists are met with the Mina District, a popular spot with a wide variety of dining establishments, shops, and a gorgeous promenade that maximises the city's recognisable skyline.