The Gulf region’s long-term investment in tourism and entertainment is paying off, as recent data from the United Nations Tourism reveals a surge in tourism revenues across THE Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in 2024.
Years of strategic expansion, infrastructure development, and high-profile events have firmly positioned the Gulf as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations.
According to Bloomberg Asharq, the United Arab Emirates topped the list of Arab countries in tourism revenues last year, earning $57 billion, a 10% increase from the previous year. Saudi Arabia ranked second with $41 billion, marking a 14% rise.
Kuwait posted the highest growth rate among all Arab countries at 35%, generating $2.3 billion in tourism revenues. This remarkable growth was supported by the introduction of tourist visas and the successful hosting of the 26th Gulf Cup, held from December 21, 2024, to January 4, 2025.
Other Gulf nations also recorded strong performances.
Qatar ranked fifth in the Arab world with $8.4 billion in revenues, while Bahrain achieved 12% growth to reach $3.7 billion. Although Oman was not included in the 2024 statistics, it continues to expand its hospitality and ecotourism projects, reinforcing its place within the thriving Gulf tourism ecosystem.
Beyond the Gulf, Egypt came in third with $15.3 billion, followed by Morocco with $11.3 billion, Jordan and Lebanon in sixth and seventh places, and Tunisia in ninth.
The sharp increase in Gulf tourism revenues highlights the success of government-led initiatives aimed at diversifying economies and promoting cultural and entertainment industries. Massive investments in infrastructure, transportation networks, airports, and hospitality facilities have elevated service quality and global competitiveness.
Seasonal tourism campaigns, cultural festivals, sports events, and new projects such as waterfront developments, shopping destinations, and entertainment complexes have also drawn millions of regional and international visitors, solidifying the Gulf’s reputation as a premier tourism hub in the Middle East.
Tourism experts forecast that the region’s strong performance will continue through 2025, fueled by the launch of new entertainment megaprojects, enhanced air connectivity, and the hosting of major international events and exhibitions.
This ongoing momentum underscores tourism’s role as a pillar of economic diversification in the Gulf — aligned with transformative national strategies such as Saudi Vision 2030, New Kuwait 2035, and the UAE Vision 2021.
As Gulf nations continue to redefine the global travel experience, the region stands poised to become a model for sustainable and high-value tourism growth in the years ahead.
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