The leisure sector is all agog with the approach of the semi finals of the FIFA 2022 World Cup which is sure to put up a spectacular show in Qatar in the coming days.
Hotels and resorts across the country are anticipating a higher turn up at properties this week which will mark the culmination of the much look forward to global sporting fiesta.
Travel and tourism sector officials said they expect a larger number of guests who came for the first and second rounds of the tournament and have been traveling to neighboring countries to return for the semi finals and the finals on Sunday.
“We are expecting a better turn up this week as the World Cup is reaching a climax, said
M Grand Hotel General Manager and Finance Controller,” Kumudu Fonseka.
Hotels, resorts and holiday homes have been at full capacity according to property owners who are upbeat about better days for the leisure sector which is poised for an accelerated growth in 2023 with investments in to the sector expected which industry experts believe to be the trickle down impact of the FIFA 2022 World Cup.
“World Cup visitors who wanted to travel to regional countries during the tournament have extended their stay due to the amazing preparations for the sporting event and the beauty of the location”, Fonseka said.
According to tour operators many who planned to visit regional destination gave up plans due to the high cost of accommodation.
“The adverse media publicity was debunked by the arrangements, infrastructure and the wonder of Qatar that took visitors by surprise on arrival,” Fonseka said adding that the number of guests to his property has been at a satisfactory level since the start of the World Cup.
The glamorous sporting event kicked off on November 20 with a spell binding show across eight stadiums in Doha.
Well On restaurants Managing Director Manjula Jayawardana said he achieved full capacity at all his properties since the start of the World Cup and added that he is confident of good times in the days and weeks ahead.
“I’m happy with the outcome of the sporting season which has brought glad tiding and rich dividends to the leisure sector,” Jayawardana said.
Qatar has been preparing for the rare occasion for years giving a complete face-lift to the travel and transportation infrastructure and construction of state of the art stadiums across the country.
According to travel data over 3,000 rooms had been added to the travel sector during the past three months recording a growth in inventory build up.
According to leisure sector officials most hotels have been preparing for the world cup well in advance adding new amenities to cater to the discerning clientele.
All accommodating facilities have been given a complete facelift with new amenities to cater to the high-end travel community during the month-long event scheduled to take place from November 20 to December18.
Cluster General Manager, The Victory and Saraya Palace Hotel Haseeb Jilani said he was excited about the first and the largest sporting event to be held in Qatar and added that the hotel was well geared to welcome FIFA fans and visitors.
