Under the patronage of  Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) marked the opening on 5 October with a spectacular ceremony for the first time in Qatar and showcased major international car reveals, marking an eventful start to the automotive week ahead.

The VIP Opening Ceremony was also attended by His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad Al Thani, Minister of Interior, His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, and His Excellency Mr. Saad Bin Ali Al Kharji, Deputy Chairman of Qatar Tourism. Other esteemed guests also witness the inaugural of the first ever GIMS in Qatar, including various ministers, ambassadors, and senior delegates.

Qatar Airways, Official Airline Partner of GIMS, demonstrated an elegant booth welcoming VIPs to the area. Held in partnership with Qatar Tourism, GIMS highlights the latest industry innovations and over 30 unveilings from international and regional brands including Toyota, Lexus, Porsche, Volkswagen, Lamborghini, BMW, KIA, Audi, McLaren, Mercedes-Benz, Vinfast, Chery, and more. The exhibition is studded with 31 global automotive brands and takes place from 5-14 October 2023 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC).

During the Opening Ceremony, the Qatar Airways booth was visited by former England football Captain and Manchester United player David Beckham, who toured the Qatar Airways and Formula 1® simulator, the cutting-edge QVerse station, and its best-in-class award-winning Qsuite. The booth also featured snippets of HIA’s ORCHARD by displaying sustainably sourced greenery offering a one-of-a-kind atmosphere to visitors at the exhibition. The airline’s signature hospitality was represented by its Cabin Crew, who served dates and Arabic coffee to visitors.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: “Qatar Airways’ support for the Geneva International Motor Show stems from our mutual admiration of technical innovation. We are proud to bring this outstanding exhibition, from Geneva to Doha, for car enthusiasts in the region. It is not only a fitting event for Qatar’s vibrant automotive landscape, but also represents the synergy of the airline and automotive industries’ strive for innovation.” The exhibition at DECC is supplemented with four supporting events across Qatar to create an exciting automotive experience. GIMS Qatar is hosting a forum on the future of car design at the National Museum of Qatar, offering an exhilarating off-road tour at Sealine, providing electrifying test drives at the Lusail International Circuit, and showcasing a stunning installation of classic cars at the Lusail Boulevard.

GIMS Qatar is open daily from 7-14 October at DECC from 14:00 to 22:00, and from 10:00 to 22:00 on Saturdays. Entrance tickets are free during weekdays and QAR 50 during weekends.