The Middle East has seen a remarkable surge in international tourism, with visitor numbers doubling since 2019, according to the Global Travel Report 2024, released by the World Travel Market in collaboration with Oxford Economics.
The report identifies the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries—Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and others—as both major tourist destinations and increasingly significant sources of regional tourists.
Intra-GCC Travel Boosts Tourism Growth
A key driver of this growth is intra-GCC travel. As relations between Gulf countries improve, residents are exploring their neighboring states more than ever before.
“We’re seeing improvements in a lot of relationships between GCC countries,” said Dave Goodger, managing director for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at Oxford Economics.
According to Goodger, this trend is “consistent with domestic demand in many other countries.”
Mega Events and Easier Travel Regulations Spur Tourism
The report credits major events like the Qatar World Cup 2022 and Expo 2020 Dubai with significantly boosting tourism across the region. These large-scale events, combined with relaxed visa policies and enhanced travel connectivity, have positioned the GCC as a more accessible and appealing destination.
The Return of “Revenge Travel” and New Growth Records
The report highlights a post-pandemic “growth phase” in tourism, with an estimated 1.5 billion overnight arrivals worldwide by the end of 2024—a figure that’s expected to surpass 2 billion by 2030. After years of “revenge travel” to make up for lost time, travelers are now taking fewer trips but staying longer and spending more.
China and India Expected to Fuel Future Growth
Looking forward, the report identifies China and India as key drivers for tourism in the Middle East and beyond. Outbound travel from China, still below pre-pandemic levels, is projected to rise by 80 percent by 2030, while Indian outbound travel is expected to double.
The report foresees a 12 percent growth in international travel over the next few years, contrasting with a modest 3 percent growth for domestic travel, as travelers prioritize international experiences.
The Middle East’s tourism sector is entering an unprecedented phase of growth, fueled by regional cooperation, large-scale events, and a shift toward extended, higher-spending trips.
As global travel continues to evolve, the GCC’s role as a tourism hub for both regional and international visitors looks set to expand further.
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