Qatar Tourism and CLIA UK & Ireland have announced a partnership that will “enhance Qatar’s brand awareness across the region and with CLIA’s wider community of cruise lines, travel agents and stakeholders”.

As part of the partnership, Qatar Tourism will be one of the main headline sponsors of the CLIA Selling Cruise Day on 4 November 2021 in Southampton and will also sponsor the annual CLIA Cruise Forum in December this year.

In 2019/2020, Qatar welcomed 207,000 cruise visitors to Doha.

Doha port recently underwent a multi-million-pound refurbishment, and the destination has set its sights on exceeding this number in the 2021/2022 season, starting in November.

Qatar reopened its borders to fully vaccinated international travellers in July. It. is preparing to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup in November next year.

To support this, a host of new hotels and hotel apartments, activities, theme parks, shopping malls and major projects have recently opened or are currently under construction.

CLIA UK & Ireland managing director Andy Harmer said: “We’re very excited to welcome Qatar Tourism to the CLIA family. Their support for the trade is a clear indication they are looking to build positive cruise momentum.

“The region was proving increasingly popular with cruisers and we’re all looking forward to seeing ships start visiting the exceptional facilities of the Doha port and its surroundings again.”

Qatar Tourism chief operating officer Berthold Trenkel added: “As Qatar has re-opened its borders, we are looking forward to welcoming back cruise travellers from around the globe. Qatar is a fantastic destination for every type of traveller.

“It is the safest and one of the most cosmopolitan destinations in the Middle East, rich in art, culture and tradition.

“With a range of assets including world class hotels, restaurants, stunning beaches and a bustling atmosphere, we offer the best of the Middle East all in one place.

“Adventure-seekers can enjoy the thrill of dune bashing across the desert, cultural enthusiasts can explore our world-famous museums and galleries, and there is a variety of fine dining options serving local and international cuisine to suit all tastes. Qatar defies expectations.”