The sea has always been part of Qatar’s identity. From the days of dhow boats and pearl diving to today’s luxury yachts, catamarans, fishing boats and watersports, the maritime industry continues to grow and diversify. With world-class marinas, global events and booming tourism, Qatar is steadily positioning itself as a leading marine destination in the Gulf.
From traditional dhows to luxury yachts, watersports, and world-class events, Qatar’s maritime industry is sailing towards a vibrant future.
The Growth of Qatar’s Marine Industry
Qatar’s identity remains tied to the dhow, a vessel that carried traders and pearl divers across the Gulf for centuries. Today, dhow cruising remains one of the country’s most authentic maritime experiences. Visitors can enjoy a cruise on a dhow along Doha’s Corniche, combining cultural tradition with modern hospitality. Building on its seafaring heritage, Qatar has also embraced the luxury side of maritime life. Today, Doha’s modern marinas welcome everything from sleek superyachts to mega vessels, positioning the country firmly on the international yachting map.
Watersports and Marine Leisure
Qatar’s long coastline has become an arena for exciting water activities. From parasailing to jet skiing, kite surfing and wakeboarding, the country’s waters cater to thrill seekers as much as they do to leisure enthusiasts. Families and tourists often enjoy stand up paddleboarding, canoeing, and even trying a surfboard or windsurfer along calmer waters. The diving scene has also expanded, with scuba diving and freediving becoming popular choices.
Recent Developments Shaping Qatar’s Maritime Industry
Qatar’s maritime landscape is rapidly evolving with real-world progress that blends heritage and innovation. In June 2025, Old Doha Port unveiled the Mina Corniche Marina, nestled in the Mina Basin beside the iconic Mina Hotel and Residences. This new marina offers premium berths, accommodating yachts up to 70 meters, ample infrastructure like dedicated power, water, complimentary private parking, and even a chic floating café overlooking Doha’s skyline.
Complementing this expansion, the port has also forged strategic partnerships with leading marinas locally and abroad, including those at The Pearl Island, Lusail City, Abu Dhabi’s Emirates Palace, and Istanbul’s Kiyi Marina, granting members access to complimentary docking, preferential service rates, and exclusive hospitality perks. At Lusail City, the Mourjan Marina is underway with 96 floating berths for 10–40 m yachts, capped off with three floating lounges, a juice bar, family-friendly areas, shaded walkways, and innovative misting tech for summer comfort. Meanwhile, a QAR 80 million Milaha Yachts and Ships Yard is being developed at Marsa Port (within Umm Al-Houl Free Zone). Spread over 22,000 m², this facility will feature maintenance sheds, workshops, and open yards tailored to luxury yachts, naval vessels, and traditional dhows.
Events and Business Growth
One of the biggest forces driving Qatar’s maritime growth is the rise of the boat show. This vibrant event has quickly become one of the region’s most anticipated marine events, bringing together the world of luxury yachts, superyachts, catamarans, and cutting-edge marine technology. Held at the historic yet modernized Old Doha Port, the show is more than just a display of vessels; it is a celebration of Qatar’s maritime culture and its growing role on the global yachting stage.
Challenges in the Maritime Sector
Despite rapid development, the industry faces significant hurdles. Climate change is a major challenge to Qatar's coastal infrastructure. Rising sea levels and extreme weather events can flood critical facilities. The government is actively addressing these vulnerabilities through infrastructure planning and environmental regulations to protect its maritime assets and is also building marinas, shipyards, and facilities to support both traditional dhows and the influx of mega yachts. The maritime industry is also facing a challenge in attracting and retaining skilled local talent. Initiatives are underway to enhance training programs and make the sector more appealing to the Qatari workforce, aligning with the nation's Vision 2030 goals to diversify and strengthen its human capital.
Opportunities for the Future
The future of Qatar’s maritime industry is promising. There is room to expand yachting charters and strengthen Doha’s reputation as a destination for luxury mega yachts. Watersports tourism can be marketed more aggressively to younger, active travelers. Finally, positioning Doha as a global hub for international boat shows presents significant business opportunities and global recognition.
Qatar’s maritime sector is experiencing strong momentum, marked by new developments, modern facilities, and growing opportunities in tourism and trade. By combining its rich seafaring heritage with ambitious investments in leisure, yachting, and marine infrastructure, the country is steadily shaping its position as a vibrant maritime destination on the global stage.
