Doha, September 30 (QNA) – Regional Director, Europe and New Markets, Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, a territory of the People’s Republic of China, Beverly Au Yong, stated that the Qatari market is one of the key strategic markets in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), noting the growing interest of Qatari travelers in luxury, family, and cultural tourism experiences in the city.

In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA) following a recent three-city roadshow across the Gulf organized by the HKTB to Doha, Riyadh, and Dubai, and aimed to enhance cooperation with the travel and tourism sector in the Gulf region, exchange tourism developments, and explore long-term partnership opportunities, Au Yong noted that this roadshow is part of the Board’s strategy to expand its presence in the region, focusing on active markets such as Qatar, which is witnessing significant growth in outbound travel.

She pointed out that Qatari travelers’ preferences align with Hong Kong’s diverse tourism offerings, including premium cultural experiences, family-friendly activities, and accommodation options that cater to the needs of Muslim travelers. She emphasized that the HKTB is developing campaigns tailored to the Qatari market and promoting tourism services that take into account cultural and religious privacy, including halal tourism.

As part of these efforts, Au Yong noted that Hong Kong offers over 60 hotels and 190 restaurants recognized by CrescentRating, a global system for rating destinations’ suitability for Muslim travelers. The city has also received advanced rankings in Islamic Travel Indicators, reflecting its commitment to providing a welcoming tourism environment that meets the needs of Qatari and GCC visitors.

She emphasized the importance of expanding direct air connectivity between Qatar and Hong Kong, noting that the advanced infrastructure and direct flights contribute to facilitating access to Honk Kong and providing a comfortable travel experience for Qatari tourists. She also confirmed that the HKTB seeks 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 the destination.

Regarding accommodation, Au Yong stated that several hotels in Hong Kong feature halal-certified kitchens, Muslim-friendly facilities, and special arrangements during Ramadan, Eid-al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The city also offers diverse entertainment options, such as parks and cultural events, which are of interest to Qatari families.

The Regional Director, Europe & New Markets at HKTB added that the HKTB has noticed positive engagement from Qatari visitors during events organized in Doha, reflecting growing interest in the destination and enhancing opportunities for future cooperation. She stressed that Qatar represents a key focus of the HKTB’s expansion plans in the Gulf, and that working with local partners in the country is a strategic step towards achieving sustainable growth in visitor numbers.

Au Yong concluded her statement to QNA by reaffirming the HKTB’s commitment to continuing to develop tourism offerings that meet the aspirations of Qatari travelers, whether in the areas of luxury, family vacations, or cultural discovery. She noted that the next phase will witness more promotional activities in Qatar, as part of a comprehensive plan to enhance Hong Kong’s position as a preferred destination for travelers from the country. (QNA)