Qatar Motor Show 2017 set to showcase automotive innovation

Latest hybrid and tech-advanced vehicles will take centre stage at the 7th edition of Qatar Motor Show (QMS) from April 18 to 22 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, it was announced.

The event, themed ‘Driving to Innovation,’ is also expected to host several 2017 model debuts in the Middle East, featuring top sports, luxury and mid-range automotive models from more than 21 exhibitors. Also showcased will be futuristic concepts and innovative models, according to Gulf Times.

QMS 2017, under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani, is organised by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Fira Qatar, a partnership of two international leaders: Elan Group, a leading media and entertainment company (formerly known as q.media); and Fira Barcelona, a global event organiser and leading trade fair institution in Europe.

Addressing a press conference yesterday, QTA’s exhibitions director Ahmed al-Obaidli said the decision to shift the timings of QMS from late January to April this year, after the Geneva Motor Show, was intended to give brands the opportunity to unveil their new models for the first time in the region.

"QMS continues to build on its position as a prominent regional automotive event, which played a significant role in reinforcing Qatar as a premium business events destination," he stated.

Similar to previous editions, the official said QMS is expected to attract a large number of automotive enthusiasts from the MENA region.

Exhibitors will also showcase the latest car-related merchandise and auto-services, including auto lifestyle goods and car-tuners.

Visitors at the Show will have the opportunity to take part and watch an array of performances and interactive activities at an outdoor fan zone.

Besides displaying some of the rarest collectable cars in the world, QMS will also see a fleet of classical and race cars parading at West Bay during the five-day event.

Elan Entertainment COO Ahmed al-Mulla said the dates of QMS have been shifted “considering a benchmark with international calendar of automotive shows to avoid overlapping, and to give brands the opportunity to showcase their latest international launches in Qatar.”

Under a new theme, he pointed out that they want move away from a traditional exhibition format to a more “consumer-focused experiential event.”

“Our long-term vision for QMS is for it to become not only a platform but also a hub for industry innovation and technology,” al-Mulla noted. “Through our theme, we aim to bring forward to enthusiasts in Qatar the technological advancements shaping the automotive industry today.”

Exhibiting brands include BMW, Ford, Jaguar, Maserati, Mercedes Benz, Mini, Nissan, BAIC, Chevrolet, Toyota, Chrysler, Dodge, Genesis, Land Rover, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Ram, Titanium, Maxus, Hyundai, and Harley Davidson. 

Qatar Motor Show will be held once every two years starting from November 2018, QTA’s exhibitions director Ahmed al-Obaidli announced yesterday.

"The decision to organise the event on a biennial basis comes in line with our efforts to create synergies with the global industry while responding to the needs of local retailers and brand owners,” he explained.