The spectacular opening ceremony of the sixth annual Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF) promised yet another promising event for visitors and guests from across the globe, courtesy of the Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Qatar Airways.

The ceremony, which took place at the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) Park, was attended by top dignitaries, international media representatives and a host of invited guests.

Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, inaugurated the opening ceremony of the festival together with His Excellency Dr Hamad bin Abdulaziz Al Kuwari, Minister of Culture, Art, and Heritage, His Excellency Mr. Issa bin Mohammed Al-Mohannadi, Chairman of QTA, His Excellency Ahmet Demirok, Turkish Ambassador to Qatar, and Mr. Marwan Koleilat, Chief Commercial Officer Qatar Airways.  

Also in attendance were Rashed Al Qurese Chief Marketing and Promotions Officer at QTA, Hassan Al Ibrahim, Chief Tourism Development Officer at QTA, Ehab Amin, Senior Vice President Commercial – Qatar, and Salam Al Shawa, Senior Vice President Marketing and Corporate Communications of Qatar Airways.

H.E. Issa bin Mohammed Al Mohannadi, Chairman of QTA said: “This year's festival is unique in terms of form and content. Such events undoubtedly contribute to supporting QTA in its efforts to develop a sustainable tourism sector."

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive His Excellency Mr. Akbar Al Baker said: "We are proud to be co-organisers of this year’s edition of the festival, along with QTA. We are confident that the festival will witness an unprecedented turnout, especially due to this year’s entertaining activities targeting all family members.

"We seek to present the original Qatari hospitality and premium services offered on our flights to the festival’s visitors. Guests will have the chance to taste the food we offer on our Business Class menu, while enjoying a spectacular view of Doha from 60 metres up. We are also delighted to introduce visitors to our celebrity Qatar Airways chefs who will be cooking delicious recipes in our Cooking Theatre zone."

Live music entertained guests as dignitaries inaugurated the sixth Qatar International Food Festival. The invited guests toured the festival's variety of zones, including the International Cuisine Zone, which will host artistic shows from around the world throughout the five-day event.

The guests also visited the Qatar Airways sponsored Live Cooking Theatre, where the national carrier's internationally-renowned chefs Chef Ayesha and Chef Capra provided live cooking demonstrations.

At the Qatar Turkey 2015 Year of Culture Zone, guests enjoyed the traditional Qatari Arda dance and Turkish folk performances, before visiting the Kulluna health and safety awareness zone, and meeting representatives of the ‘Your Health First’ campaign at the Yalla Natural truck.

Guests enjoyed the taste of premium international teas at the High Tea-Lounge Zone, and a spectacular fireworks display crowned the opening ceremony filling the atmosphere with joy and delight.

Also check out:

Fifteen facts you should know about QIFF 2015