QTA Holds Meeting for Int'l Meeting Planners, Local Industry Leaders

Doha, May 10 (QNA) - Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) on Tuesday held a session for meeting planners for international associations and local industry representatives in a bid to promote Qatar as a leading destination for hosting business events and pointing out the country's conference facilities. The planners represented UK-based and international associations, including the World Petroleum Council, International News Media Association and the International Artist Managers Association. The session, which was held at Qatar National Convention Center, enabled planners to have a firsthand experience with one of the country's conference facilities and meet local industry leaders such as Qatar Petroleum, Northwestern University in Qatar and Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra. "We are delighted to introduce global associations to representatives of institutions that make up Qatar's key sectors, including education, oil and gas, environment, science and research, sports, and music," said QTA Director of Exhibitions Ahmed Al Obaidli. "The ongoing efforts to diversify Qatar's economy are reflected in the year-round local, regional and international events being held, attracting a substantial number of the country's visitors," he added. Al Obaidli said QTA's strategy to attract seven million visitors by 2030 relies heavily on business events. To achieve this target, QTA continuously organizes sessions to introduce planners to local stakeholders, and empowers Qatar-based organizations to bid for and host global events. In turn, International News Media Association President Mark Challinor said the visit is a "real eye-opener," expressing excitement about "conveying Qatar's potential to my board." "There is no question in my mind about Qatar's capacity, infrastructure and the support from the local community for hosting large-scale events," he said. Attendees discussed the benefits of hosting large-scale international events to the local community and economy. Events that draw thousands of delegates can bring up to $50 million in revenues to a host country through visitors spending on hospitality, transportation and retail. (QNA)