The concept of eco-tourism seems like a clear choice for a country blessed with forests and greenery, but it presents challenges for a desert nation. However, attracting visitors to enjoy the geography, culture, and wildlife in the Gulf is feasible and has been promoted. The term “Sustainable Tourism” refers to arranging holidays with minimal negative impact on the environment by reducing or eliminating pollution and waste, protecting valuable ecosystems such as forests and coral reefs, and more. The common perception of the Gulf region for many worldwide may be associated with oil exploration, deserts, and beach resorts, creating a marketing challenge for promoting eco-tourism.
Hidden gems serve as attractions; for instance, Qatar’s coastal areas feature rich mangrove forests with diverse biodiversity. Birdlife has identified over 360 bird species in Qatar, 200 of which are migratory, as the Gulf region lies on a significant migration route between Europe, Asia, and Africa. In addition to bird watching, tourists can engage in kayaking and canoeing. At the Zekreet Resort, visitors can plant seedlings and participate in guided walks and boat tours.
Moreover, deserts offer visual beauty with thrilling sand dunes, oases, desert plants, lizards, and foxes. Stargazing is another attraction, as Qatar has two areas with extremely dark skies for observing stunning stars. Other attractions in Qatar include the Dahal Al Misfer Cave, which is 35 meters deep, located near Doha. There is a growing desire among tourists for holidays that involve activities and unforgettable experiences rather than just relaxing on the beach. According to a 2020 EuroMonitor survey, 64% of travelers worldwide prefer sustainable travel with a specific purpose. Eco-tourism constitutes about 20% of global tourism.
Qatar and other Gulf countries have long-distance walking trails, suitable for walking, especially in the early morning and evening, except during the summer. Many Gulf countries have identified tourism as a strategic priority within initiatives to diversify their economies. Tourism benefits various sectors, including hospitality, retail, tour operators, and workers at different income levels. Qatar, in particular, aims to catch up with the tourism trend, with the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change specifically prioritizing eco-tourism, as highlighted in a 2021 publication. This publication emphasized archaeological sites, cultural tourism, traditional festivals, the Museum of Islamic Art, and natural wonders. Last year, an English translation of the book “Eco-Tourism in Qatar” was published by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.