Qatar has set its sights on domination of the Middle Eastern Tourism market with a series of ambitious developments and expansion plans including the development of Katara, its cultural village, which today is celebrating the long awaited grand opening of Katara’s amphitheatre with a spectacular international musical show.

Held under the patronage of the Emir H H Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the grand opening, has been inspired by a message of hope featuring Vangelis’ three-part Choral Fantasy.

In honour of the 4th UN Alliances of Civilization Forum, the first part, played by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra, will feature elements of improvisation mixed with European classical orchestral sequences.

The second part will feature famed Soprano Angela Gheorghiu, accompanied by both the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and the Yurlov Moscow State Academic Choir.

The third act brings together beloved Tenorissimo Roberto Alagna and Ms. Gheorghiu for a duet and will then conclude with an encore of Vangelis’ greatest hits. The finale, entitled “Child of Hope,” will be performed by the multi-ethnic Qatar Philharmonic Children’s Choir.

The performance, which will be attended by 150 VIP guests including members of the ruling family, heads of state and dignitaries, will be the first in a line up of many events that will take place at the Amphitheatre.

President of Katara, Abdulrahman Al-Khulaifi, said, “It is an incredible honour to announce the Grand Opening of Katara’s amphitheatre. Since opening, Katara has not only provided a platform for aspiring artists and musicians but also introduced Qatar to world renowned musicians and performers.

“As home to one of the largest open air amphitheatres in the Middle East, Katara is dedicated to showcasing the diverse cultures of the world and the amphitheatre provides the perfect stage for international and local artists.”

“The opening of the Amphitheatre is another milestone for Katara. This is just the start of a series of shows to be organised at the Amphitheatre which is now a significant section of
Katara set to witness more visitors. It will host one major event every month,” said Imad Sultan, Cultural Director of Katara.

Between 5,000 to 7,000 visitors visit the cultural village each day with 20,000 to 25,000 visitors during weekends, despite the fact that the development is only 30% complete. It is anticipated that Katara will be completed in five years.

This year, as Qatar has moved into the spotlight with the announcement that it will play host to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Katara is set to welcome guests from all over the world.

World Travel Awards Grand Final Ceremony

After a rigorous selection procedure, Qatar was chosen as the host of the WTA Grand Final Gala Ceremony, reflecting the Arabian nation’s rapid emergence as a tourism hotspot.

Qatar is recognised as the Middle East’s Leading Business Destination by the prestigious World Travel Awards.

Graham Cooke, president and founder, World Travel Awards, highlights how his organisation selects host destinations that are driving the industry to new heights through innovation and experimentation.

He said: “We are delighted to host our Grand Final Gala Ceremony in Qatar as it is such an exciting place to be right now with incredible opportunities within the luxury sector.

“Our Grand Final will see the winners of our five regional heats, who represent the cream of the global travel and tourism industry, compete head to head for the ultimate travel accolade.”

Ahmed Al Darwish, vice president sales and marketing, QTA, celebrates at the WTA Middle East Gala Ceremony 2011