LONDON: Qatar’s presence made a strong impactat the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2024 with its rich cultural heritage and tourism offerings taking center stage.
Hamid Abdallah Kahtani, a Qatari ceramic artist, is one of the key figures who showcased the country’s craft at the event.
In collaboration with Kaynat Salma Farm and Wizard Qatar, Kahtani offered visitors a chance to experience the ancient art of pottery that has been central to Qatari life for centuries.
"Pottery has been a vital part of our daily life, used for everything from cooking to carrying water," Kahtani said.
"Here at WTM, it’s about telling the story of our culture, sharing the beauty and functionality of this craft that has deep historical ties to Qatar and the Gulf,” he said.
Visitors to the Qatar pavilion were captivated not only by Kahtani’s pottery but also by the striking calligraphy stand, another highlight of Qatar's cultural showcase.
The calligraphy stand has proven to be particularly popular, drawing crowds who admire the intricate designs and the traditional art form that is deeply woven into Qatar’s cultural fabric.
The reaction to the stand has been overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors taking photos and engaging in conversations about the significance of Arabic calligraphy.
"The calligraphy display is amazing," said one visitor from the UK. "It’s not something you see often, and the craftsmanship is beautiful. It really shows the depth of Qatar’s culture."
In addition to the cultural displays, the Visit Qatar pavilion saw a steady stream of visitors eager to learn more about the country’s tourism offerings.
The pavilion showcased Qatar’s diverse attractions, from its world-class museums and vibrant modern architecture to its stunning desert landscapes and rich traditions. Many visitors were impressed by the variety of experiences on offer in Qatar, with a few mentioning how it has become a must-visit destination for their future travels.
"I’ve always thought of Qatar as just a stopover, but after seeing this, I’m really intrigued to visit," said a visitor from Germany. "The culture, the food, and the activities you offer are incredible. I’m already planning my trip."
Another visitor, from the US, commented: "I didn’t know much about Qatar before, but now I’m so impressed. The cultural experiences you offer are unique, and the country seems to have a perfect balance of history and modernity."
According to Kahtani, the attendance at the pavilion has been exceptional. He said that about 30-36 visitors approached him to learn the art of pottery making per day.
"The feedback has been incredible, and people are really engaging with our culture and heritage," Kahtani said.
"It’s been a pleasure to introduce Qatar to a global audience and to have these meaningful conversations with visitors who are eager to learn more."
Qatar’s rich culture and diverse tourism offerings struck a chord with visitors, from pottery and calligraphy to the intricate art ofsaduweaving, which is also being showcased at the pavilion.
Saduweaving, traditional Bedouin textile artistry used to create beautifully patterned tents, cushions, and rugs, is another example of Qatar’s vibrant cultural heritage that continues to capture the imagination of global audiences.
The presence of Qatar at WTM London 2024 is a key part of the country’s ongoing strategy to promote its tourism sector globally. The direct engagement with visitors at the event allows Qatar to showcase its unique cultural heritage, modern attractions, and the hospitality that awaits tourists.
"Word of mouth is the most powerful form of advertisement," Kahtani added. "By having this direct interaction with visitors, we’re able to create lasting impressions that will encourage more people to visit Qatar."
