A delegation of top Qatari travel agents, tour operators, and social media influencers is touring Uganda this week in a high-level familiarisation trip led by Uganda’s Deputy Head of Mission in Qatar, Ambassador Mohammed Baswari Kezaala.
The initiative, coordinated by the Uganda Embassy in Doha, seeks to showcase the country’s cultural and ecological wealth to a market Uganda views as vital for the future of its tourism sector.
The group has already visited the Source of the Nile in Jinja and trekked gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—experiences they are documenting and sharing across multiple platforms back home.
"This familiarisation trip is a strategic initiative designed to strengthen the growing cultural and tourism ties between Uganda and Qatar," said Kezaala, who is championing Uganda's outreach to Gulf travel influencers.
"Our goal is to showcase the beauty, diversity, and potential of Uganda’s tourism sector to Qatari tour operators who play a critical role in influencing travel decisions in the Gulf region."
He added that the Qatari delegates were actively creating digital content as they travelled, helping to reposition Uganda in the Middle Eastern market as a top-tier destination for leisure, nature, and cultural tourism.
The familiarisation visit precedes the Pearl of Africa Tourism Expo (POATE) in Kampala, where the Qatari delegation is expected to engage with local tourism operators and businesses in efforts to forge commercial partnerships.
Mr Ali Bin Ali, who heads the Qatari delegation, described Uganda as "a hidden gem" and praised its people and natural beauty.
“From the warmth of the people to the natural wonders we’ve experienced, there is enormous potential for Qatari travellers looking for authentic adventure and relaxation,” he said.
Hanan Ibrahim, CEO of United Tours and Travel Agency in Qatar, said the visit had opened doors to real collaboration.
“This visit has opened our eyes to the vast possibilities Uganda offers. We are excited to collaborate with Ugandan tour operators to design tailor-made packages for our clients,” she noted.
The Uganda Tourism Board has welcomed the trip, viewing it as an important step in broadening Uganda’s international outreach.
While European and North American visitors have traditionally dominated Uganda’s long-haul arrivals, the government is increasingly targeting Middle Eastern markets due to their growing appetite for eco-tourism, wellness, and authentic cultural experiences.
This is the second time this year that Ambassador Kezaala has led a group of Qatari travel agents to Uganda.
The first visit took place in February and covered some of the same destinations. Officials say the return visit reflects deepening interest and commitment.
As the current group continues its journey, including participation in POATE, both governments hope the initiative will lead to long-term benefits: more tourists, stronger business ties, and greater visibility for Uganda on the Gulf’s tourism map.