Qatar Tourism has become the newest destination member of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), expanding its outreach across the Asia Pacific travel market.

The partnership was formalised on Tuesday, November 3, during a signing ceremony at the Qatar Pavilion during WTM London 2026. PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid and Qatar Tourism Director of Operations Affairs Omar Al Jaber signed the agreement. The event was witnessed by PATA Chairman Henry Oh and Qatar Tourism Chairman H.E. Saad bin Ali Al-Kharji.

By joining the association, Qatar Tourism aims to deepen international industry cooperation, connect with key source markets, and share expertise with global travel partners. The membership grants access to PATA’s network of destinations, airlines, hospitality groups, travel companies, and educational institutions for research, networking, and joint initiatives.

“We are delighted to welcome Qatar Tourism to the PATA family,” said PATA CEO Noor Ahmad Hamid. “Qatar has established a strong and distinctive position on the global tourism stage, supported by its world-class infrastructure, connectivity, cultural heritage, business events capabilities, and commitment to developing a diverse and sustainable tourism economy. Its membership adds an important perspective to our network and creates opportunities for greater collaboration between Qatar and the Asia Pacific tourism community. PATA’s network provides a platform for destinations and tourism organisations to exchange knowledge, build meaningful partnerships, and explore opportunities for responsible tourism growth, and we look forward to working with Qatar Tourism to strengthen connections with our members across the region.”

Mr Omar Al Jaber, Chief of Operations Affairs at Qatar Tourism, said, “Joining the Pacific Asia Travel Association marks an important step in strengthening Qatar Tourism’s engagement with the Asia Pacific region. Through PATA’s extensive network of tourism stakeholders, we look forward to building new partnerships, exchanging industry knowledge and exploring opportunities that support our international outreach. This membership will further strengthen Qatar’s connections with key tourism markets and support our efforts to attract visitors from across the region.”

The agreement coincides with Doha being named the 2026 GCC Tourism Capital. The designation highlights the capital’s growing status as a regional tourism hub and reflects Qatar’s strengths in culture, business events, sports, and sustainable development.

Supported by Qatar Airways’ global network, the country offers a varied tourism portfolio ranging from family entertainment to heritage and wellness. PATA stated that adding Qatar Tourism strengthens its own engagement beyond the immediate Asia Pacific region.