Doha, August 20 (QNA) - Qatar Tourism, in collaboration with the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau (CSGDB), hosted a strategic workshop aimed at enhancing the cruise passenger journey and highlighting key projects and initiatives designed to help advance Qatar’s cruise tourism sector, in preparation for the 2025/2026 cruise season, set to begin November 2025.

The workshop reviewed the latest developments across the sector while addressing current challenges, exchanging insights, and enhancing the skills and knowledge of stakeholders from both public and private sectors.

The two-day event brought together representatives from a wide range of government entities and private organisations.

Sessions included presentations on global cruise tourism trends and destination best practices, alongside discussions to identify areas for development and innovative initiatives to further enrich the visitor’s experience.

Commenting on the workshop, Chief of Tourism Development Sector at Qatar Tourism Omar Abdulrahman Al Jaber said: "Cruise tourism is a vital pillar of Qatar’s tourism strategy, playing an increasingly important role in supporting the national economy and strengthening the country’s position as a leading global destination".

He added: "We extend our sincere appreciation to the Civil Service and Government Development Bureau for their valuable support and collaboration in this workshop, which underscores our commitment to investing in training and equipping the workforce with the skills and knowledge needed to deliver exceptional service, ensuring a world-class experience for visitors to Qatar."

CSGDB's Director of Government Development Affairs Youssef Jaber Al Jaber stressed: "We are working in partnership with Qatar Tourism to enhance the visitor journey within Qatar’s cruise tourism sector, by analyzing and developing every stage of the passenger experience and improving touchpoints with government services. This ensures a seamless and integrated journey that reflects the quality and efficiency of our services".

He underscored: "We value Qatar Tourism’s leading role in coordinating these efforts and their continuous commitment to strengthening the sector’s readiness. This fruitful collaboration reflects the spirit of partnership and integration in government work."

The workshop featured interactive activities to foster closer cooperation among stakeholders, including idea exchanges, priority-setting, and the development of practical action plans ahead of the new season. Participants were also awarded certificates in recognition of their valuable contributions.

Qatar is preparing to welcome the 2025/2026 cruise season in November, following an exceptional season that saw over 360,000 visitors arrive on 87 cruise ships, marking a 19% year-on-year increase.

This growth highlights the sector’s strong trajectory and its expanding contribution to the national economy. (QNA)