Qatar Sees Tourism Surge with 3.5 Million Visitors in 2025’s First Three Quarters

The tourism sector in the State of Qatar is showing strong momentum in 2025, with visitor numbers reaching approximately 3.5 million during the first nine months of the year—a rise of around 2.2 % compared with the same period last year. The Peninsula Newspaper+2Ciiradio+2

According to figures released by Qatar Tourism, the growth reflects sustained accommodation demand and a robust calendar of attractions carrying the country toward a busy final quarter. The Peninsula Newspaper+1

Source markets & travel modes

The largest share of visitors came from neighbouring GCC nations, accounting for 36 % of arrivals, followed by Europe with 25 % and Asia & Oceania at 22 %. The Peninsula Newspaper+1

Breaking down travel modes, about 60 % of visitors arrived by air, 33 % by land, and 7 % by sea—evidence of multi-modal access to Qatar’s tourism ecosystem. Ciiradio+1

Accommodation and occupancy trends

By the end of Q3, the total number of hotel and hotel-apartment rooms in Qatar stood at 41,733, while the average occupancy rate reached 68 %, up 2.4 percentage points from the previous year. Total room-nights sold rose to 7.7 million, marking an 8 % year-on-year increase in demand. The Peninsula Newspaper+1

What’s driving the growth

Several factors contribute to this up-trend. Qatar’s upgraded infrastructure, targeted event programming and enhanced destination appeal are helping boost international and regional flows. As the country gears up for a host of major sports, cultural and leisure events in late 2025 and into 2026, these visitor numbers set a promising tone. Gulf Magazine+1

Looking ahead

With the final quarter of the year still to play out, Qatar is positioned to build further momentum. A packed events calendar—including major sports tournaments, cultural festivals and entertainment events—is expected to attract additional travellers and anchor the destination’s reputation for year-round tourism appeal.

As part of its national development strategy, Qatar continues to leverage tourism for economic diversification, cultural enrichment and community impact. The 3.5 million-visitor milestone not only underscores this ambition but also signals opportunities for hospitality, retail, events and allied sectors.

In summary, the State of Qatar’s performance during the first nine months of 2025 demonstrates resilience, strategic foresight and rising global appeal. Whether for business, leisure or cultural travel, the destination is making meaningful strides—and the remainder of the year looks set to further consolidate its tourism footprint.