Goa Tourism showcases culture, connectivity at ‘Goa Evening’ in Doha

Published: 10 April 2025

Godwin Isaac K | NT
Doha

In a vibrant celebration of heritage, hospitality, and opportunity, the Goa Tourism Department and the Government of Goa, India, hosted a special promotional event titled “Goa Evening” at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Doha on Wednesday.

The event aimed to strengthen cultural and tourism ties between India and Qatar and to position Goa as a prime travel destination for Qatari nationals, the Indian diaspora, and international residents.

The event was attended by prominent dignitaries, including the Ambassador of India to Qatar, H E Vipul, Shawn Mendes, Officer on Special Duty to the Indian Minister for Tourism, and Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of Goa Tourism. The evening drew an enthusiastic crowd of Goan expats, Qatari travel industry professionals, and India-based travel agencies.

In his welcome address, Kuldeep Arolkar said: “It is an honour to bring the spirit of Goa to Qatar, a land where tradition meets modernity, and where partnerships hold immense potential.”

He highlighted the event as a step toward deeper collaboration with Qatar’s travel industry, inviting guests to experience Goa as “a destination that offers not just holidays, but transformative experiences rooted in heritage, harmony, and hospitality.”

Indian Ambassador underscored the strategic significance of tourism in strengthening bilateral ties:
“Tourism plays a pivotal role in building people-to-people connections between India and Qatar — two countries with a long-standing friendship. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural mosaic, and expanding tourism infrastructure, Goa offers an unmatched travel experience for Qatari travelers and the wider expat community.”

The Ambassador also highlighted the role of direct connectivity and India’s e-visa services in making travel to Goa more accessible.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Shawn Mendes OSD to the Indian Minister for Tourism expressed appreciation for the enthusiastic response in Qatar.

The night concluded with networking opportunities between Indian and Qatari travel professionals.