Doha has been named the GCC Tourism Capital for 2026, following a unanimous decision by the region's tourism ministers. The recognition builds on Qatar's earlier designation as Arab Tourism Capital in 2023, and reflects a strategic bid built around the city's transport infrastructure — including Hamad International Airport and the integrated Doha Metro and tram network — alongside its cultural attractions and sustainability initiatives.
The title follows a strong run for Qatar's tourism sector: the country recorded roughly 5.1 million visitors in 2025, after international arrivals grew by around a quarter the year before. GCC travellers remain Qatar's largest single source market, followed by visitors from Europe, Asia-Pacific and the Americas.
Qatar Tourism has framed the title as a platform to expand the city's calendar of major events and further develop Doha's profile as a business-events and cultural destination heading into 2027.
Source: Visit Qatar / Qatar Tourism