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total impact on the economy has increased to 6.7 % of total GDP .
According to the World Economic Forum ’ s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017 , Qatar is the second most competitive travel and tourism destination in the MENA region .
Thanks to a new e-visa platform and visa liberalisation measures positively impacting visitors from over 80 countries , Qatar is now the most open destination in the region .
A new , free Qatar Transit Visa , developed in cooperation with Qatar Airways , also allows passengers of all nationalities to spend up to four days enjoying all the country has to offer . In addition , prospective visitors with valid residence permits or visas to Schengen countries , Australia , Canada , UK , USA , New Zealand or GCC Countries , can apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation ( ETA ), which allows them to obtain visa-on-arrival to Qatar .
Qatar ’ s tourism sector offers boundless growth and development opportunities for organisations and individuals , from international hotel chains to local entrepreneurs and the thousands of hospitality workers , all of whom make a visit to Qatar a truly unforgettable experience .
Gems of Qatar
The Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy was launched in February 2014 , with the aim of developing a sustainable tourism sector that celebrates Qatar ’ s cultural and natural gems .
The Next Chapter , a new fiveyear plan to guide Qatar ’ s tourism development , will introduce a blueprint to build on this success . The plan aims to attract 5.6 million visitors to Qatar annually by 2023 , double the number the country welcomed in 2016 .
Different zones across Qatar will be aligned with themes that celebrate the variety of assets that the country has to offer .
For example , owing to its unique biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes , the zone of Al Khor and Al Thakira will emphasise eco-tourism , with an increase in eco-lodges , nature tours , and water sports experiences .
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