Doha: Qatar's transportation industry is likely to see exponential growth during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and beyond.
“We are looking at a huge boom in the transportation industry in Qatar as well in the hospitality industry,” said Shoueeb Dar, who is general manager of Castle, one of leading transportation companies in Qatar. It provides the widest range of premium, cost-effective staff transportation programmes and services.
Transportation plays an important role in the travel and tourism industry, and with international tourism showing continued strong signs of recovery in the country, the demand will be high.
Latest data from Civil Aviation Authority show that Hamad International Airport recorded an increase of 74.4 percent in the passenger footfall in September compared the same month last year. Number of passengers reached 3,172,062 this September against 1,819,250 in September 2021.
“As travel restrictions loosen, we are estimating influx of visitors even after the World Cup, thanks to Qatar Tourism and other organisations. They are launching Qatar as a global destination, a sports hub, a tourist destination, and it’s bringing a lot of people. A lot of people are interested in visiting Qatar,” Dar said. The General Manager also attributed the growing number of tourists to the layover and cruise tourism.
“Because of these connecting flights and cruise stops, travellers will maximise their stay in the country. They are visiting the museums like the Museum of Islamic Art, and the traditional marketplace Souq Waqif, to name some. They wanted to explore, feel and experience Qatar. It’s bringing a lot of business for us as a transportation provider.”
As global events continue in the country post-World Cup, the need for VIP, staff, and group transportation will increase. “We are forecasting good years ahead, and estimating really very good business,” Dar said. Qatar is hosting the Asian Football Cup 2023, Asian Games 2030, and will bid anew for the Olympics. Among other major events next year are: Horticultural Doha Expo, Qatar Travel Mart, and Geneva International Motor Show.
