26% Increase in International Tourist Arrivals in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iran
The Middle Eastern countries, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Iran, and others, known for their rich history, diverse cultures, and rapid modernization, have demonstrated a remarkable resurgence in their tourism sector. In the first seven months of 2024, international tourist arrivals have surged by 26% compared to the same period in 2019, making the Middle East the fastest-growing region in relative terms. This significant growth reflects the strong recovery and increasing confidence among international travelers in choosing these destinations.
International Tourist Arrivals in Selected Middle Eastern Countries (Millions)
| Year | Saudi Arabia | United Arab Emirates | Qatar | Oman |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 15.0 | 21.0 | 3.5 | 2.0 |
| 2023 | 17.5 | 23.0 | 4.0 | 2.5 |
| 2024 | 20.0 | 25.0 | 4.5 | 3.0 |
In 2024, the global travel and tourism sector showed substantial resilience, with international tourism recovering to 96% of its 2019 levels within the first seven months. Strong demand in Europe and the reopening of destinations in Asia have significantly contributed to this recovery. According to the latest data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), approximately 790 million tourists traveled internationally from January to July 2024, representing an 11% increase compared to the previous year and only 4% below 2019 figures.
Key Factors Driving Tourism Growth in the Middle East:
- Saudi Arabia: The ambitious Vision 2030 plan, focusing on diversifying the economy and reducing oil dependency, has propelled Saudi Arabia to become a popular tourist destination. The introduction of tourist visas in 2019 and extensive marketing campaigns have significantly contributed to this growth.
- United Arab Emirates: Dubai and Abu Dhabi remain prime tourist attractions, with Expo 2020 Dubai playing a pivotal role in reviving the tourism industry. The UAE’s investments in hospitality and cultural offerings continue to attract diverse international tourists.
- Qatar: The legacy of the 2022 FIFA World Cup and substantial investments in infrastructure have positioned Qatar as a year-round destination for tourists.
- Oman: Focusing on eco-tourism and cultural tourism, Oman attracts travelers seeking sustainable and immersive experiences, complemented by recent luxury resort developments.
- Kuwait: Kuwait’s emphasis on cultural tourism, driven by investments in museums and art galleries, has enhanced its appeal among Gulf tourists.
- Bahrain: With relaxed visa policies and promotions like the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix, Bahrain has seen a steady rise in tourist arrivals.
- Iran: Despite geopolitical challenges, Iran continues to attract visitors with its ancient history and vibrant cultural scene.
Major Airlines Connecting the Middle East with the World
| Airlines | From Europe | From USA | From Asia |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates | London, Paris, Frankfurt | New York, Los Angeles, Chicago | Beijing, Tokyo, Mumbai |
| Qatar Airways | London, Madrid, Milan | Chicago, Dallas, Miami | Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore |
| Etihad Airways | London, Manchester, Zurich | New York, Washington D.C. | Manila, Jakarta, Seoul |
| Oman Air | London, Paris, Frankfurt | New York, Boston | Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore |
The 26% increase in international arrivals highlights the resilience of the Middle East’s tourism sector. As the region continues to prioritize sustainable tourism and improve safety measures, the Middle East is set to become a leading global tourist destination in the coming years.
