Doha to host sister event to the Geneva International Motor Show

The Qatar capital of Doha is set to host its own motoring event in conjunction with the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) from 2022.

Forming a partnership with the organisers of the GIMS, Qatar Tourism announced its spin-off will be called the Qatar Geneva International Motor Show and could take place as early as next year.

With the intent to hold the QGIMS every second year in Doha, Qatar Tourism has hinted at a potential autumn date for the show, roughly between September and December in the Northern Hemisphere.

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The Qatar Tourism chairman, His Excellency Mr Akbar Al Baker, said the partnership will be of benefit to both parties.

“In line with the national strategy, Qatar National Vision 2030, we are expanding our tourism proposition to position Qatar as a world-leading destination, and ensure guests enjoy the very best of Qatar," said Al Baker.

“In addition to extensive hotel and resort development, the refurbishment and creation of tourism assets and an expanding culinary scene, hosting internationally renowned events is an important pillar of our strategy.

"We’re pleased to partner with the highly distinguished Geneva International Motor Show and look forward to a collaborative relationship to bring this eminent event to our shores.”

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President of the permanent committee of the GIMS, Maurice Turrettini, said he was proud to have his event expanded to another country, believing Qatar is the natural choice for a spin-off motor show.

“We are very proud and honoured Qatar Tourism has put its trust in us for the conception of the new motor show in Doha," said Turrettini.

"Our partnership is the result of very trusting and constructive discussions from day one.

"The joint forces with Qatar Tourism empower us to focus on the upcoming 91st edition of GIMS in February 2022, where we will be able to gather ideas and learnings for the new motor show in Doha.”

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The 2020 GIMS was scrapped due to the emerging pandemic

The GMIS is steeped in tradition, having been run almost every year since its inception in 1905 – although next year's show will be the first event in three years, thanks to the 2020 and 2021 editions being cancelled due to the global pandemic.

Set to be held across across February 19 to 27, the 2022 GIMS will hopefully go ahead – unlike the 2021 New York International Motor Show, which was scrapped due to a surge in Delta COVID-19 cases in the United States.