Qatar luxury leisure and yacht boom

Qatar is rapidly expanding its high‑end leisure sector. In July, the government announced a series of climate‑controlled outdoor venues—such as the record‑setting Crystal Walk on Gewan Island and the Centro precinct in Rawdat Al Hamama—designed to offer year‑round public spaces for residents and tourists. Alongside these projects, officials highlighted a growing luxury yacht market, projecting a value of US $50.7 million by 2025 and a steady 5.4 % annual growth through 2033.

By early August, the focus shifted to ultra‑luxury megayachts. Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts unveiled a £320 million, 207‑metre yacht with 91 suites, targeting a niche market of affluent guests willing to pay up to $10,000 per night. Simultaneously, Qatar’s Emir, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, returned his refurbished 123‑metre megayacht Al Lusail to Spain after a €35 million overhaul, underscoring the continued demand for bespoke, high‑profile vessels among Gulf royalty and the global ultra‑wealthy. Together, these developments illustrate Qatar’s concerted effort to position itself as a premier destination for climate‑controlled leisure experiences and world‑class yachting.