Qatar Tourism issues regulations on holiday home rentals

By Qatar Day - September 07, 2021

Doha, Qatar

Qatar Tourism is taking steps to regulate the operation of holiday homes owned by individuals and provide a complete licencing and classification process while ensuring international best practices are adopted to increase transparency, safety and standardisation of the sector.

The new regulations outline the requirements for homeowners to apply for a licence, including quality standards, amenities, health and safety, accessibility criteria, code of conduct and environmental sustainability. Similar to the Qatar Clean Programme, the Holiday Home regulation is part of Qatar Tourism’s efforts to promote a safe, enjoyable experience to those who visit Qatar.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive and Chairman of Qatar Tourism, H E Akbar Al Baker, said: “As we prepare for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, we are working towards ensuring a seamless experience for fans, rooted in Qatar’s tradition of hospitality. With a diverse range of hospitality options across hotels, onboard cruise ships, stadiums and luxury campsites, Qatar Tourism is working with stakeholders to provide the best visitor experience across touchpoints. This new service of regulated holiday homes will therefore allow fans with more hospitality choices to choose from, while retaining the luxury and service excellence that Qatar is known for.”

Qatar Tourism has upgraded its system to facilitate the new licence applications for owners and authorised tenants who can now apply for a Holiday Homes licence through the e-Services portal.

Homeowners are accountable for ensuring the unit meets all legislative and maintenance requirements and is accurately listed with all necessary amenities and guest services provided. Frequent inspections will be conducted by Qatar Tourism in order to maintain standards.

The move is a part of Qatar’s objective to further diversify and increase offerings, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, which develops products and services to attract visitors for 2022 and beyond.

This regulation complements the growth trend in the city’s hotel and hotel apartment segment, catering to changing traveller demographics and needs.