Doha, Qatar: The 14th edition of the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), hosted by Visit Qatar, was yesterday inaugurated with a magnificent opening ceremony held at Hotel Park, marking the beginning of a ten-day celebration dedicated to gastronomy and entertainment.

The ceremony was graced by numerous dignitaries, including the Chairman of Qatar Tourism, H E Saad bin Ali Al Kharji and Qatar Airways Group CEO  Engr. Badr Mohammed Al Meer, along with other VIPs and officials.

This year’s festival will showcase over 100 local vendors, 27 international restaurants and cafes, and a variety of entertainment shows. QIFF 2025 is anticipated to be the largest and most thrilling edition to date.

The festival, which runs until February 22, aims to provide an exceptional culinary experience, highlighting both global and local flavors, while also embodying Qatar’s vision to enhance its status as a premier destination for cultural exchange and tourism.

During his opening remarks, Eng. Abdulaziz Al Mawlawi, CEO of Visit Qatar, said, emphasised QIFF’s significance in positioning Qatar as a premier global destination for gastronomy and hospitality.

“The Qatar International Food Festival has evolved into a global platform that celebrates culinary excellence while reflecting Qatar’s rich cultural diversity and commitment to innovation. Its continued success underscores the pivotal role of the hospitality and dining sectors in advancing Qatar’s tourism landscape, serving as a key driver in delivering world-class experiences to visitors and residents alike,” he said.

Fireworks marked the anticipated return of one of Qatar’s most iconic culinary events, the Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), on Wednesday.#Doha #Qatar #QIFF #QIFF2025 pic.twitter.com/6iMA1zr7Qp

— The Peninsula Qatar (@PeninsulaQatar) February 12, 2025

The opening ceremony featured remarkable highlights, including diverse choreography and dance performances that celebrated the array of culinary offerings presented at the event. The grand fireworks display that concluded the evening not only enhanced the event’s allure but also solidified Qatar’s status as a premier tourist destination.

This year’s festival features several remarkable attractions, including the Michelin Guide Village, where attendees can indulge in exclusive dishes crafted by some of the world’s most esteemed Michelin-starred chefs. The QIFF Ring serves as a competition arena, allowing visitors to observe chefs as they showcase their culinary skills in a live cooking competition.

Additionally, a Cooking Studio will host celebrated chefs from both Qatar and internationally, offering engaging workshops and cooking classes. For those in search of an extraordinary experience, Dinner in the Sky presents a thrilling dining opportunity suspended 50 meters above the ground, granting guests breathtaking views of the festival and the Doha skyline.

The festival’s extensive venue is organised into distinct districts, each providing unique dining experiences and interactive activities.

The Flavours within Qatar section highlights the nation’s diverse culinary heritage, featuring both traditional street food and upscale dining options.

Meanwhile, the Latin Food District presents authentic dishes such as tacos, empanadas, and ceviche, offering a taste of Latin American cuisine. The International Flavours District showcases a variety of global street food and gourmet offerings, while the Healthy Corner emphasises plant-based and sustainable dining. Lastly, the Coffee & Bakeries Corner is a paradise for coffee and dessert lovers, presenting artisanal coffee alongside an array of delectable sweet treats.

The QIFF VIP Area provides an exclusive, luxurious dining experience with gourmet food, personalised service, and top-tier decor, offering a refined atmosphere for guests seeking a premium experience. Families are also invited to enjoy daily movie screenings, kids’ workshops within QIFF Juniors, and other engaging outdoor activities, ensuring entertainment for visitors of all ages.