Clia has agreed a partnership deal with Qatar Tourism with the aim of raising the country’s profile among cruise lines, travel agents and stakeholders.

The organisation will be one of the main headline sponsors at the Clia Selling Cruise Day on November 4, and will also sponsor the Clia Cruise Forum in December.

As the country builds up to hosting the Fifa World Cup next year, an extensive tourism development is under way.

Last month, Qatar reopened its borders to fully vaccinated international travellers. Across 2019 and 2020, Qatar welcomed 207,000 cruise passengers to Doha.

With the capital city’s port undergoing a multi-million pound refurbishment recently, the country’s tourism chiefs hope to exceed 207,000 in the 2021-2022 season, starting in November.

Andy Harmer, Clia UK & Ireland managing director, said: “[Qatar Tourism’s] support for the trade is a clear indication they are looking to build positive cruise momentum.

“We’re all looking forward to seeing ships start visiting the exceptional facilities of the Doha port and its surroundings again.”