Qatar Airways and the Qatar Tourism Authority are hosting the first Qatar Total German Open 2005 starting today in Berlin. The event, which has attracted some of the world’s leading women tennis professionals, is one of the highlights of the German sporting, business and social calendar.

Both organisations are supporting the tournament that, for the first time, is being organised under the auspices of the Qatar Tennis Federation that has bought the rights to the event with total prize money worth US$1.3m. The Qatar Total German Open 2005 features on the professional women’s international circuit and is one of the top 10 tennis tournaments in the world.

The grounds of the Lawn Tennis Turnier Club in Berlin have already been turned into a Qatari village showcasing Qatar’s world-renowned Arabic hospitality, promoting culture, tourism and business opportunities to the German market. Qatar Airways Chief Executive Officer and Qatar Tourism Authority Chairman Akbar Al Baker said he was proud to see both organisations affiliated with such a high-profile event.

“The State of Qatar is increasingly gaining attention for its thriving tourism industry and strong commercial interests which are helping put our country on the global stage,” he said. “Sport is a global commodity and Qatar is becoming a centre for excellence in different sports. We have world-ranking men’s and women’s tennis tournaments in our capital city Doha and now want to show the world we can organise key sporting events in international markets.

“The Qatar Total German Open 2005 in Berlin is an indication of our commitment to tennis and sport. We will showcase Qatari hospitality at its best and I am sure visitors to the grounds will not be disappointed.”

Added Al Baker: “Qatar Airways and the Qatar Tourism Authority have enjoyed an excellent partnership with the Qatar Tennis Federation over the years and we look forward to staging this wonderful tournament in Berlin running until May 8, 2005.”
Qatar Tennis Federation president, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Faleh Al Thani said: “We have some of the world’s top ranking players participating in the Qatar Total German Open 2005.

“On behalf of the Qatar Tennis Federation and tennis fans around the world, I would like to thank Qatar Airways and the Qatar Tourism Authority for their support of this event.

“We will ensure this event is one of the best ever. Our presence and involvement in this high-profile tournament for the first time will ensure we promote the State of Qatar, its culture, tourism and business to the world.”
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