The Qatar Tourism Award recognizes Old Doha Port for Outstanding Cultural Tourism Experience and Leading Event Celebrating Local Culture

During its first participation in the Qatar Tourism Award, Old Doha Port won The Qatar Tourism Award for Outstanding Cultural Tourism Experience and Leading Event Celebrating Local Culture during the awarding ceremony on October 27 at the Raffles Hotel. Returning for its second edition, the Qatar Tourism Awards, developed in partnership with the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism), honors organizations and individuals who elevate and enrich the visitor experience in Qatar.

Old Doha Port’s two wins of the Cultural Tourism Experience award and Leading Event Celebrating Local Culture award solidify its place as one of the nation’s newest and most prominent tourist destinations, offering diverse cultural experiences to both the local community and international visitors. The Qatar Tourism Awards celebrates remarkable contributions and excellence in showcasing Qatar’s vibrant culture, tourism, and innovation.

Dedicated to preserving and celebrating Qatar's rich maritime heritage, Old Doha Port embodies the characteristics of Qatari culture through its distinctive architecture, inspired by Qatari coastal cities and villages, the port reflects natural life along the coast. Further bolstered by the always-on programming, including some of this year’s key events during Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, and Eid Al Adha, which featured the iftar canon, maritime cultural bands, artisan performances and folk crafts highlights, Garangao events, and more traditional cultural events.

In addition to the traditional cultural events, Old Doha Port continuously hosts annual fishing competitions and pearl diving events, both of which are distinctly significant to Qatar’s culture. They also have previously hosted Open Water Days, Kids Games Booths, and the Throwback Food Festival. These events mark Old Doha Port as a hub for local celebrations and events, reinforcing its status as a premier tourist destination enjoyed by both locals and international visitors.  

“Winning these two prestigious awards at the Qatar Tourism Awards is a monumental achievement for Old Doha Port as we continuously work towards becoming the leading maritime and tourism destination. The port has become the official maritime gateway to Qatar for visiting yachts, boats, and cruise ships, where the rich tapestry of Doha’s history intertwines with cutting-edge maritime services, sustainable practices, and cultural heritage. We are always innovating our offerings to provide memorable experiences,” Old Doha Port CEO Mohammed Abdulla al-Mulla said. “Old Doha Port is playing a vital role in advancing Qatar’s National Vision 2030 goal of attracting 6 million visitors through the introduction of marine tourism both regionally and internationally.” 

Old Doha Port has successfully hosted high-profile events throughout the year and the port is currently gearing up to host and organize the inaugural Qatar Boat Show 2024, set to be from November 6 to 9. The event features a diverse array of sections, each designed to cater to different aspects of maritime life. Visitors can explore luxury marine vessels, witness engaging demonstrations, and enjoy a series of cultural performances. For more information about the Qatar Boat Show, visit https://boatshowqatar.com.