Health tourism is gaining global traction, driven by travelers seeking quality care, alternative treatments, and holistic wellness experiences abroad. In response, nations around the world are developing frameworks to attract medical travelers—and Qatar is poised to become a contender on the international stage with its upcoming medical visa rollout.

Qatar’s new medical visa is more than a policy update—it’s a strategic move to position the country as a global hub for medical and wellness tourism.

“We’re in the final stages of introducing the medical visa,” says Omar Al Jaber, Chief of the Tourism Development Sector at Visit Qatar. “It will allow people to come not just for advanced medical procedures through institutions like Hamad Medical Corporation but also for recovery, wellness, and preventive care at our resorts.”

This development reflects a broader international trend. Across the globe, countries are recognizing the economic and reputational benefits of catering to health-conscious travelers. By introducing a dedicated medical visa, Qatar joins a growing cohort of nations—such as Germany, Thailand, and the UAE—that are actively targeting health tourists.

Beyond traveling for medical treatment and surgeries, Al Jaber says tourists seek wellness initiatives at high-quality resorts. Among Qatar’s offerings is the Zulal Wellness Resort by Chiva-Som, a luxurious property offering integrated wellness programs in northern Qatar. “We are the only country in the region with a resort by Chiva-Som,” Al Jaber says.“And we’re seeing strong interest from travelers looking to combine health with hospitality.”

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TOURISM TARGETS

These health-focused tourism initiatives align with the country’s vision to welcome 6 to 7 million tourists annually, with the tourism sector contributing up to 15% of the national GDP by 2030. To support this vision, the country invests heavily in infrastructure, easing visa processes, and forging international partnerships to attract more visitors—including those seeking medical and wellness care.

Qatar currently offers visa-free entry to over 100 nationalities, and its streamlined Hayya platform simplifies the tourist visa process for others. The upcoming medical visa will strengthen Qatar’s appeal as a seamless, accessible destination for global patients.

“We want Qatar to be an accessible destination for all,” Al Jaber says. “It’s about openness, convenience, and a welcoming environment.”

WELLNESS TOURISM GOES MAINSTREAM

The rise of wellness tourism is reshaping the travel landscape. What was once a niche market is now a global movement, with travelers prioritizing experiences that promote relaxation, healing, and personal transformation. Qatar is aligning with this trend, offering everything from high-end spa retreats to tailored fitness and mental wellness programs.

“These are no longer niche experiences,” says Al Jaber. “Wellness is becoming mainstream. People visit purely for relaxation, mental clarity, or fitness programs. That’s a big shift.”

The medical visa complements this shift, allowing visitors to combine clinical treatments with restorative experiences in luxurious, serene settings—making Qatar a unique, dual-purpose destination.

SKY-HIGH COLLABORATIONS

Strategic airline partnerships are another pillar of Qatar’s tourism push. The Qatar Airways Stopover Program offers travelers a chance to experience Doha en route to other destinations—an entry point that’s converting curious passersby into return visitors.

“The stopover campaign has been a major success,” Al Jaber says. “It introduces people to Qatar, often for the first time, and many choose to come back later for a longer stay.”

These brief encounters are growing into meaningful travel relationships, driven by Qatar’s expanding reputation in experience-led, health-forward tourism.

Al Jaber believes the real differentiator will be in the stories people take home—stories rooted in wellness, healing, and cultural connection. “People want more than just a destination. They want meaning. They want to feel transformed. That’s what we’re creating in Qatar.”