Qatar Tourism updates the instructions for licensing marine tourism transport offices

Qatar Tourism has announced the update of the instructions governing the maritime tourism transport activity, including the licensing of marine tourism transport offices and marine tourism transport in all its categories (A, B and C). In line with international best practices, Qatar Tourism has issued a new classification guide for owners and operators of marine tourism transport, specifying the technical requirements and specifications that must be met by these means that comply with the Tourism Regulation Law No. (20) of 2018.
According to these updates, Qatar Tourism confirms that any Class A boat that does not meet the classification requirements and criteria referred to in the Classification Guide No. 1.1 of 2024 will not be allowed to operate, be present or dock in the Doha Corniche area.
Categories of tourist transportation include:
1. Class A – includes boats used for short trips only, operating within the Corniche area.
2. Class B – includes boats used for long journeys, operating outside the Corniche area.
3. Class C – includes boats used for long trips that provide accommodation and meals (premium and luxury boats such as yachts).
Individuals can operate Category A only while Categories B and C are operated only by licensed tourist offices.
Managers of maritime tourism transport offices, boat owners and operators are required to ensure compliance with the new instructions within the allocated time frame as of 25/8/2024, and the means of transport have been given 3 months from the date of issuance of these instructions to abide by them. Qatar Tourism regulates and develops the tourism industry, promotes private sector investment and sets the strategic direction of the sector.
Mr. Fahad Hassan Al-Abdulmalik, Director of Tourism Licensing Department at Qatar Tourism, said: ” The procedures and standards for the practice of maritime tourism transport have been adopted in coordination with the concerned authorities, including the Private Engineering Office, the Ministry of Transportation, the General Directorate of Coastal and Border Security, and the Ministry of Municipality. These standards for maritime transport intended for the transport of tourists on cruises have been designed and developed in accordance with the best international principles. This initiative aims to enhance transparency, unify the sector, support Qatar’s maritime strategy, promote service excellence across the country, and provide an exceptional and safe experience for users of these services.”
As part of its mission, Qatar Tourism is overseeing the implementation of its Tourism Strategy 2030 with the aim of diversifying the country’s tourism offerings and increasing visitor spending. Through these efforts, Qatar Tourism is working to strengthen Qatar’s global presence and enhance the tourism sector in general.