Qatar Tourism creates hotline for visitors amid ongoing Middle East conflict

Qatar Tourism has created a hotline to support international visitors amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. 

Travellers who are currently unable to depart the destination due to airspace disruptions have been instructed to contact +9744069921 for support regarding issues with accommodation, access to medical supplies and other on the ground queries. 

The hotline is unable to offer assistance with rebooking flights and those seeking consular assistance should contact the embassy first. 

Qatar’s tourism authority issued a National Emergency Hospitality Support Strategy on March 2 to aid those experiencing delayed flight departures caused by airspace disruptions. 

In a circular to hotel managers, Qatar Tourism requested hotels extend stays for guests, as well as offer full board, “until airport operations resume and the airspace reopens”.

The authority confirmed it will cover all additional costs. 

Qatar Tourism has also offered visa extension support to “ensure all visitors will not incur any overstay penalties while awaiting the resumption of their return travel arrangements”.

A statement from Visit Qatar to its global trade partners said: “We understand the concerns this situation may raise for you and your clients currently in Qatar or planning to travel to the destination. Please be assured that Qatar has taken swift and coordinated measures to ensure the safety and care of all visitors during this period.

“The safety and wellbeing of every visitor to Qatar remains our top priority. Since the situation began, national authorities, tourism entities and hospitality partners have been working in close coordination to ensure all travellers in Qatar remain safe, well-informed and fully supported.

“Hotels and hospitality partners across Qatar have been mobilised to support this effort, ensuring that accommodation extensions are handled smoothly and that travellers continue to receive the high standards of service and care Qatar is known for.

“Dedicated teams remain available to assist guests throughout their extended stay.”

It continued: “Qatar remains a well-prepared destination, fully capable of managing situations of this nature with efficiency and professionalism. Our national infrastructure, emergency response systems and world-class hospitality sector enable us to respond swiftly and effectively while ensuring the continued safety and comfort of all visitors.

“While the situation is being closely monitored, the destination continues to operate with stability.”