Why Did IFP Decide To Open A Branch In Qatar And When?
IFP Qatar has been organizing world class events in the country for more than a decade. Back then, Qatar looked very different but it had a strong vision for its future. That vision – which continues to be true today – includes becoming a hub for commercial, cultural and intellectual exchange. In our industry, that presented an enormous opportunity and we wanted to be a partner in materializing this vision.
What Was The Initial Plan?
To deliver world class events, advance the nation’s vision for the future, and introduce people from around the world to top notch hospitality, venues and business opportunities in Qatar.
Could You Act According To Plan Considering That Exhibitions Need Official Licenses?
When you’re building a business, getting the appropriate licenses and permissions is part of the work. We have built strong local relationships and made solid plans for entering and growing in the market. From this perspective, we went beyond our expectations. The support and confidence of the Qatar Tourism Authority was integral to our establishment and they continue to be a strong partner in our success.
What Was The First Show? What Was The Feedback?
Project Qatar was in fact IFP Qatar’s very first show which is why it continues to hold a special place in the lineup of events we build in Qatar each year. It was as impressive show in its early days and it has grown in ways we couldn’t have ever imagined. To give you an idea, we started in 2004 with just 10,000 m2 of exhibition space. Last year, we had a total exhibition space of 62,000 m2.
What Shows Followed And Which Are Still Organized?
Project Qatar comes to mind as one event with a rich heritage – an institution that seems to get better every year.
Now, 10 Years After, What Can You Say About Your Achievements And Disappointments, If Any?
For 10 years now, buyers, suppliers and decision makers have met at Project Qatar to network, share knowledge, negotiate, and forge deals. We have seen Project Qatar evolve from a trade show to a strategic access point for reaching key decision makers in a country with a clear pipeline of projects and one of the fastest growing economies in the world. We are very satisfied with the growth and progress of our events and my only disappointment is that we didn’t start sooner.
Project Qatar Has Become Synonymous With IFP Qatar, A Success Story That Is Repeated Every Year. What Are The Reasons For Your Success?
The expertise, the innovative products and services, the international character of our exhibitors and the enthusiasm of our visitors are the primary reasons for Project Qatar’s success. We should also mention and thank the construction boom that Qatar is experiencing. We are also fond of IFP Qatar’s closeness to the market and friendship with companies and decision makers in Qatar and the GCC. These are also major contributors to the exhibition’s success. We are grateful for Project Qatar’s 10 year history in Qatar and look forward to another decade of success ahead.
What Can You Say About The Construction Sector In Qatar And How Is This Sector Evolving With Project Qatar?
All eyes are on Qatar’s construction sector, which is slated to grow 12.5% over the next decade in anticipation of the FIFA World Cup 2022 and other major initiatives. Project Qatar is proud to be a partner in that growth, empowering local, regional, and international SMEs to grow with the market, by making them more agile and responsive to market demands.
What Are Your Expectations of This Year’s Edition of PQ?
This year, we expect to again break attendance records and continue our evolution. Project Qatar will always be a leading trade show for showcasing and introducing new products and services, however we are encouraged to see it take on a new role as a strategic hub for idea sharing and connecting with decision makers in the lucrative GCC market.
A Final Word Addressed To The Exhibitors And The Visitors?
Thank you for making the last 10 years a success. We look forward to another 10 years of Project Qatar. And a very special thank you to Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister His Excellency Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassem Bin Jabor Al Thani for his patronage of Project Qatar, his visionary leadership, and generosity each year.
WhyQatar Magazine
6 May
