Geneva International Motor Show Qatar (first edition)

The first edition of the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) in Qatar was held in Doha from 5–14 October 2023, marking the first time the iconic Geneva-branded event took place outside Switzerland since its inception in 1905. The inaugural show was officially inaugurated by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and attracted a wide range of global automotive brands and enthusiasts. Spanning over 10,000 m² at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), the event featured about 30 international exhibitors who showcased the latest innovations, including regional premieres and world firsts in automotive design and technology. The show also included a festival of activities such as off-road experiences, track days, and a Future Design Forum highlighting next-generation mobility concepts. The inaugural Geneva International Motor Show Qatar drew approximately 180,000 visitors over 10 days, signaling strong regional interest in automotive excellence and positioning Doha as a growing hub for major global events. The event provided manufacturers with a platform to display cutting-edge electric vehicles, concept cars, and performance models tailored to Middle Eastern markets, while enthusiasts enjoyed a celebration of automotive culture and innovation. Organisers and partners described the successful turnout as a testament to Qatar’s capability to host large-scale, internationally recognised exhibitions, and the show is planned to continue with future editions, including one scheduled for November 2025.