Doha: Regional Director, Europe and New Markets, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), Beverly Au Yong, emphasized the importance of the Qatari market as a key strategic focus within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). She highlighted the increasing interest of Qatari travelers in luxury, family, and cultural tourism experiences in Hong Kong.
According to Qatar News Agency, Au Yong made these remarks following a three-city roadshow organized by the HKTB, which included stops in Doha, Riyadh, and Dubai. The roadshow aimed to enhance cooperation with the travel and tourism sector in the Gulf, exchange tourism developments, and explore long-term partnership opportunities. She noted that this initiative is part of HKTB’s strategy to expand its presence in the region, with a focus on active markets like Qatar, where there is significant growth in outbound travel.
Au Yong pointed out that Qatari travelers’ preferences align with Hong Kong’s tourism offerings, which include premium cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and accommodations catering to the needs of Muslim travelers. She emphasized the development of campaigns tailored to the Qatari market and the promotion of tourism services that respect cultural and religious privacy, including halal tourism.
As part of these efforts, Hong Kong offers over 60 hotels and 190 restaurants recognized by CrescentRating for their suitability for Muslim travelers. The city has received advanced rankings in Islamic Travel Indicators, showcasing its commitment to providing a welcoming environment for Qatari and GCC visitors.
She stressed the importance of expanding air connectivity between Qatar and Hong Kong, noting that direct flights and advanced infrastructure facilitate access and provide a comfortable travel experience for Qatari tourists. The HKTB aims to expand cooperation with airlines and local entities in Qatar to organize joint campaigns, familiarization tours, and host Qatari media professionals and influencers to promote Hong Kong as a destination.
Regarding accommodation, Au Yong mentioned that several hotels in Hong Kong offer halal-certified kitchens, Muslim-friendly facilities, and special arrangements during Ramadan and Eid celebrations. The city also provides diverse entertainment options, such as parks and cultural events, appealing to Qatari families.
Au Yong highlighted positive engagement from Qatari visitors during events in Doha, reflecting growing interest in Hong Kong and enhancing opportunities for future cooperation. She reiterated that Qatar is a key focus of HKTB’s expansion plans in the Gulf and that collaboration with local partners is a strategic move towards sustainable growth in visitor numbers.
Concluding her remarks to QNA, Au Yong reaffirmed HKTB’s commitment to developing tourism offerings that meet the aspirations of Qatari travelers in luxury, family vacations, and cultural discovery. She noted that the next phase will include more promotional activities in Qatar to enhance Hong Kong’s position as a preferred destination for travelers from the country.