Qatar’s appeal as a holiday stop is soaring, with the Discover Qatar Stopover Programme reaching a record-breaking milestone in January 2025.
For the first time since its relaunch in 2021, the programme welcomed over 10,500 stopover visitors in a single month – up from 6,651 in January 2024.
The rise marks a staggering 165% increase in stopover visitors from April 2024 to January 2025 compared to the same period the previous year.
The surge in demand has also translated into a boom in hotel stays, with over 100,000 room nights booked so far this year – doubling 2024’s figures.
Discover Qatar (DQ) is the destination management arm of Qatar Airways Group – and it says Qatar Airways Holidays has played a major role in driving sales, contributing over a third of all bookings.
“The Qatar Stopover Programme is central to positioning Qatar as a leading global destination,” DQ Senior Vice President Steven Reynolds said.
“By leveraging Qatar Airways’ extensive network of over 170 destinations and the outstanding travel experiences we offer, we have firmly established Qatar as a must-visit destination.
“At Discover Qatar, we are committed to delivering tailored packages that combine cultural discovery, world-class hospitality and unforgettable experiences for travellers from around the world.”
The programme has also proved popular among the national airline’s frequent flyers, with 20% of customers using Avios points to pay for their stopover stays.
Financial support from national tourism office, Visit Qatar (VQ), and targeted global marketing campaigns have fuelled demand, with Australia, US, UK, Germany and the Netherlands leading as key source markets.
Travel trade contributions from Australia, South Africa, Iran, Saudi Arabia and New Zealand have further strengthened the programme’s success.
At the 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards, Doha’s Hamad International Airport (HIA) was also named the World’s Best Airport, making stopovers even more enticing.
Destination Doha… Airport?
In an interview with Karryon, Qatar Airways Regional Manager – Australia and New Zealand Justin Kestel called HIA “a highlight in itself” for travellers.
“Offerings such as the Al Mourjan Business Lounge, featuring private sleeping pods, shower rooms, relaxation zones and a gourmet food selection, ensure a premium experience,” he said.
“In addition, it has recently unveiled a new extension that includes a tropical garden at the center of the airport, alongside myriad retail, hotel and lounge offerings such as the exclusive Louis Vuitton Lounge in collaboration with Michelin Chef Yannick Alleno.”
According to Kestel, the carrier also offers “more flexibility in choosing connections” than rival airlines, highlighting the carrier’s forthcoming tie-up with Virgin Australia.
“The announcement of our partnership with Virgin Australia means additional flight options and better connectivity for Australians to our extensive global network via our hub at Hamad International Airport,” he said.
In October 2024, VQ launched a new campaign targeting key stopover markets, such as Australia, by showcasing the positive impact that 24 hours in the destination can have on long-haul travellers.
