Tourism spending in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is expected to reach $223.7 billion by 2034, according to figures issued by the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for Arab Countries of the Gulf (GCC-Stat). This expansion reflects the region’s growing position as a global tourism destination, which is aided by considerable expenditures in cultural, entertainment, and hospitality infrastructure.
According to data cited by Emirates News Agency (WAM), inbound tourism is predicted to account for 13.4% of total exports in 2034. This indicates that tourism is playing an increasingly important role in the region’s economic development and diversification goals. International visitor expenditure across GCC states will reach $135.5 billion in 2023, a 28.9% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
On the 2024 Middle East and North Africa Safety and Security Index, all six GCC countries scored higher than the regional average of 5.86 out of a possible seven points. Safety, stability, and increased global connectivity continue to add to the region’s appeal.
GCC member states also maintained top positions in global passport indices, demonstrating their expanding impact in international tourism.
