Tourism across the Middle East is booming, marking a significant economic shift.
The region’s key players, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Egypt, are driving this transformation, welcoming record-breaking numbers of tourists.
The Middle East is witnessing an unprecedented surge in tourism. Key markets such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Egypt are at the forefront. Saudi Arabia alone welcomed 60 million tourists in the first half of 2024, showcasing its expansive growth. Dubai also recorded a significant increase, with 9.31 million visitors, a 9% rise from the previous year.
Saudi Arabia is leading the tourism revolution in the region with ambitious targets. Despite opening up to international tourism in 2019, it has already seen remarkable progress. In 2024, tourists spent $38.1 billion within the first six months. The kingdom’s goal to attract 150 million tourists by 2030 is well underway, enhancing its position as a tourism hub.
Dubai is maintaining its upward trend, attracting diverse international visitors. The data indicates a strong presence from GCC and MENA regions, along with a notable influx from Western Europe and South Asia. This cosmopolitan city is capitalising on its strategic location and modern amenities. The forward-thinking approach of Dubai’s tourism authorities ensures it remains a top choice for travellers globally.
Both Qatar and Egypt have experienced significant tourism growth. Qatar registered a 28% increase in international arrivals in the first half of 2024, with 2.63 million visitors. Saudi Arabia was the largest contributor to these numbers. Simultaneously, Egypt broke its previous records, welcoming 7.069 million tourists and boosting its tourism revenue considerably.
The Middle East’s hotel construction is reaching its zenith, supporting the surging tourism sector. Data reveals 607 projects are underway, with Saudi Arabia and Egypt featuring prominently. This boom in the hospitality industry underscores the region’s resilience and appeal. The projects symbolise the commitment to accommodating rising tourist numbers effectively.
Saudi Arabia leads with 320 new hotel projects, an all-time high. It reflects the nation’s strategic vision to diversify its economy. Meanwhile, the UAE also shows substantial activity with 87 projects. These efforts align with broader economic transformation goals, marking a robust period of growth in hospitality infrastructure.
Cities like Riyadh and Jeddah in Saudi Arabia and Cairo in Egypt are leading in hotel construction. Riyadh has 89 projects, whereas Jeddah follows with 58. These developments are crucial for sustaining tourism growth. However, surprisingly, Dubai is not a leader in hotel construction, which highlights a unique strategic focus in other cities in the region.
The pace of hotel openings is set to accelerate. By year-end 2024, an additional 66 new hotels are expected, followed by 102 in 2025. This growth trajectory is set to continue into 2026. The strategic planning in expanding hospitality infrastructure is clear, aligned with the increasing influx of tourists.
The Middle East’s dynamic tourism growth is well-supported by robust hotel development.
Both sectors are set to reach new heights, underpinned by strategic initiatives in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring nations.