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QATAR - Tourism

Hicham Oumy

Hotel Manager, Mina Hotel & Residences

Bio

Hicham Oumy has over 17 years of experience in the hospitality industry. With a strong background in hotel operations and a proven track record of delivering exceptional guest experiences, Oumy has successfully managed and led teams in renowned hotels and resorts in different countries across Middle east, Europe, and North Africa.

Mina Hotel & Residences is riding high as Qatar’s tourism profile grows and the Mina District is revived.

What is your view of Qatar as a regional tourist hub and what are the available opportunities in the tourism sector?

When discussing opportunities, it is important to highlight the successes we have achieved following the World Cup. Qatar has successfully been organizing numerous cultural and sports events, and the triumph of the World Cup has facilitated the country’s overall development and growth in the tourism industry. There has been a noticeable increase in the number of visitors. Moreover, Qatar’s rich cultural heritage has been an enticing aspect for visitors, providing them with an opportunity to explore the country. The nation has made substantial investments in the preservation and promotion of its heritage sites, such as museums and art galleries located throughout the country. This adds to the appeal for people interested in cultural tourism, inviting them to come and experience the diverse offerings of the country.

How do you see the Mina District as a means of promot-ing Qatar’s cultural heritage and the country as a tourist destination?

The word “Mina” in Arabic translates to “port,” and in the old days, the lives of Qataris were deeply linked to the sea. The idea behind developing the Mina District was to connect the past with modern life. The intention was to enhance the port, as it served as the central hub for all economic activities, trade, and movement. This area holds great significance for its contributions to the country and its people. The development of the Mina District serves as a tribute to its historic role. The architectural development undertaken in this district is a mix of Qatari culture with a twist of Mediterranean style. Visitors can discover a wide range of restaurants, retail stores, and souvenir shops. Additionally, the district’s proximity to the sea along the waterfront makes it an appealing destination. This uniqueness sets it apart from other districts in Doha, making it a truly special place.

What strategies will Mina Hotel employ to attract both international and domestic customers and tourists?

We have implemented targeted marketing campaigns that are specifically tailored to domestic and international visitors. This is done through various channels, including travel websites, social media platforms, and trade shows abroad. As a district, there is a section that falls under the responsibility of the hotel, while the management of the entire district is organizing events through-out the year. This vibrant atmosphere consistently draws people to come and experience the lively ambiance of the place. We are working together for the same purpose of marketing the whole district, which in turn benefits the hotel as well. We have devised a marketing strategy that targets social media platforms and focuses on attracting international travelers, particularly from the GCC countries. We offer various packages during the summer that include numerous activities aimed at making the place more enticing and encouraging people to stay with us. These packages combine accommodation with district-based activities, particularly focused on water sports activities, in addition to benefits such as special rates or discounts at nearby restaurants.

What has been the response of tourists during the first year since the hotel’s opening?

In general, we have received a score of 8.9 in terms of service quality and overall product satisfaction. The response has been positive, and people are interested in visiting a new place that offers simplicity. It is not always necessary to stay in a luxurious establishment, as many people enjoy the experience of being in a simply designed building with excellent service. This creates a feeling of utmost comfort and satisfaction.

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