Page 28 - Special Issue QTM 2021

Ali Ahmed

(General Manager - Simaisma Murwab Resort):

“ Covid pandemic is still the main chal-
lenge for the tourism sector worldwide ”

Simaisma, A Murwab Resort is a luxurious family oceanfront oasis resort in
Qatar with signature amenities, a myriad of recreational activities and a tran-
quil environment that will relax and reinvigorate you all at once. It elegantly blends
its natural habitat with modern day luxuries and locally inspired design elements
to create an enchanting resort that mesmerizes both the heart and soul. Ali Ahmed,
General Manager at Simaisma, A Murwab Resort, was among the prominent peo-
ple who participated along with several of his colleagues at the Qatar Travel Mart
show in its first edition. Al Bayan Magazine met Mr. Ahmed on the sidelines of the
event and conducted the following interview.

* How do you evaluate the Tourism Sector for 2021? And Taking part in the first-time nationwide event that supports the

what was “Covid-19” knock-on effect to the industry? tourism and travel sector in Qatar, allows us to present our

- In the beginning of 2021, the tourism industry began to cope hospitality services that are truly inspired by Qatari culture.

with covid challenges. The tourism sector started showing Participating in such an event gives us the exposure and

signs of normality with the gradual ”2022 will be an chance to showcase our property as
ease of travel restrictions around the a top family destination not only for
world after the introduction of the vac- exceptional year for Qatari residents but also for interna-
cines and the significant decrease in tional travelers.

infection rate. All while maintaining * What is the importance of being
under the umbrella of Katara?
tourism in Qatarprecautionary measures. As the

“Covid Pandemic started, the whole
world shook. The travel and tourism Katara Hospitality is part of the foundation of the hospitality

sector were affected very badly. But after some time, we soon and tourism sector in Qatar. Katara’s umbrella extends not
adapted and realized that it was an opportunity for local only in Qatar but internationally which gives us a chance to be
tourism. Qatari residents found alternatives to their summer
holiday travels and explored the country as tourists. Most of part of the top leading company in strategic hospitality and
the country’s resorts witnessed a spike in occupancy com- innovation. Katara is a big supporter of local cultural tourism
pared to previous years. and hospitality. And being part of Murwab group specifically

(which is a local Katara owned hotel brand), empowers our

* What are the other challenges the Tourism sector is cur- position in the presentation of Qatari Culture to the world.

rently facing and how do you plan to tackle them? * What are your expectations for the coming year?
- The Covid pandemic is still the main challenge 2022 is expected to be an exceptional year for
for the tourism sector not only in Qatar tourism in Qatar as the country is
but also worldwide. We tackle this preparing to host the historical

challenge by complying with all sports event of the FIFA world

precautionary measures and cup 2022. There will be an

abiding by Qatar Clean pro- increase in demand for

gram that allows us to pro- rooms and various hospi-

vide safe and healthy tality services. We’re

environment for our anticipating to welcome
guests and employees. GCC tourists as well as
Also we always plan to international travelers.
find ways to adapt with the Moreover, this year marks
new market needs. a milestone for the hospitali-
ty and travel industry in Qatar,

* What is the purpose behind your for this Global event will open to
a future of endless opportunities for

participation at QTM? this sector in Qatar.

2022 (ôjGÈa) •ÉÑ°T - 603 O~©dG - ájOÉ°üàb’G ¿É«ÑdG 28