Tag Archives: GCC

According to RateHawk, the top 10 outbound destinations for the entire summer include Turkey, Italy, France, Thailand, Spain, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Austria, Greece, and the United States. The average transaction value for accommodation bookings is $1551, with an average stay of five nights. Although Indonesia didn’t enter the top 10 most-booked outbound destinations, it has become one of the fastest-growing travel choices, showing a remarkable two-fold increase in bookings year-over-year, according to RateHawk. Traditionally, over half (53%) of these bookings are located in Bali, particularly in popular areas such as Ubud, Kuta, and Munduk. The visa-free policy and strong air connections with the GCC region, including a newly launched Saudia flight from Jeddah to Bali, continue to boost tourism to this tropical island. European destinations, with top choices in cultural capitals such as London, Paris, Milan, Munich, and Barcelona, remain a traditional favorite among GCC travelers seeking to escape the summer heat. The steady growth of tourism to Europe continues, driven by improved connectivity through the launch of new direct routes to popular destinations, including Saudia’s flight to Venice and Flydubai’s flights to various Greek resorts, such as Corfu, Santorini, and Mykonos. Thailand, another favourite Asian destination among GCC travelers, continues to show steady growth of 48% from last year, especially in areas like Bangkok and Phuket. Travelers heading to Asia typically choose longer stays, often up to one week in just one hotel. Serkan Ozbay, Regional Director in the Middle East region, commented: “Summer season in the GCC region traditionally has two spikes in travel demand. The first peak aligns with the Eid Al-Adha holidays, which this year fall between 5 June and 9 June, with Dubai as …

Dragonpass International (Dragonpass) is redefining the travel experience in the GCC. Andrew Harrison-Chinn CMO at Dragonpass shared, “With over 2.7 million customers in the region, we’ve seen a 100% year-on-year increase in customers transitioning from analog to digital. This growth aligns with the broader development visions shaping the future of the GCC. Regional strategies, including Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the UAE’s Urban Plan 2040, emphasize smart infrastructure, elevated quality of life, and seamless urban mobility—all priorities that mirror Dragonpass’s commitment to frictionless, tech-enabled travel. Across the GCC, international tourism is surging, with Saudi Arabia welcoming 30 million visitors and the UAE’s major airports seeing over 48 million international arrivals in the past year. The demand for seamless, value-rich travel experiences has never been higher.” Dragonpass’s growth has been powered by its flexible and collaborative approach to market entry and expansion. Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all model, the company partners closely with local organizations to co-create solutions that reflect the unique cultural and consumer dynamics of each GCC market. This localized agility has enabled Dragonpass to rapidly scale its operations and emerge as a preferred platform for both travelers and regional businesses seeking to enhance the travel experience. A key differentiator is Dragonpass’s advanced technology platform, which aggregates travel services and loyalty benefits into one unified and personalized user experience. Strategic partnerships with leading blue-chip organizations based in the Middle East allow the company to deliver high-value offerings that combine exclusivity, convenience, and relevance. Dragonpass has also expanded well beyond traditional airport benefits. The platform now offers access to over 2,150 curated travel experiences, including Fast Track and a wide array of dining options. Dragonpass has recently launched a …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has officially selected the China Visitors Summit (CVS) to be held in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain on 28–29 August 2025. This landmark event will bring together 150 elite Chinese travel industry buyers, making it the largest B2B gathering of Chinese outbound travel professionals ever hosted outside of China. The CVS Abu Dhabi is a highly curated, by-invitation-only event. The attending Chinese buyers are carefully vetted and confirmed to be actively doing business with the UAE—specifically with travel products and services in the Abu Dhabi Emirate. Delegates include senior executives from: • Travel agencies and tour operators • Luxury agents, wholesalers and bespoke travel designers • MICE managers and corporate travel planners • OTAs and niche specialists in adventure, culture, culinary, wellness, and more Over the course of the two-day, face-to-face workshop, participating Abu Dhabi travel suppliers—including hotels, DMCs, attractions, museums, shopping malls, and transportation companies—will engage in pre-scheduled B2B appointments. Each supplier will have the ability to personally select the Chinese buyers most relevant to their product, whether focused on leisure groups, luxury FITs, or MICE and corporate segments. In addition to the business meetings, the CVS program includes local experience days in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, designed to give the Chinese delegates firsthand exposure to the products they may sell. These include hotel site inspections, cultural experiences, F&B showcases, and interactive destination briefings, allowing buyers to become more effective ambassadors for Abu Dhabi upon returning to China. This 2025 edition of CVS Abu Dhabi marks a return to the summit’s roots. Originally launched in Abu Dhabi in 2013, CVS has since expanded globally. With its initial …

The Jordan Tourism Board (JTB) highlighted the country’s growing reputation as a premier medical and wellness tourism destination in the Middle East and North Africa region reporting significant growth in international visitations for medical care and wellness therapies. The country’s medical tourism sector witnessed a remarkable increase with 224,740 medical tourists in 2024, building on consistent growth from 191,532 in 2022 and 202,592 in 2023. The first quarter of 2025 has already recorded 51,448 medical tourists, underlining another strong year for the sector. Jordan’s comprehensive healthcare ecosystem, comprising 69 private sector hospitals with approximately 5,500 beds, has positioned the country as a preferred destination for patients seeking advanced medical treatments, particularly from GCC nations and neighboring countries. “Jordan’s medical tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable growth, led by theworld-class healthcare services the country offers, the natural therapeutic sites with first class resorts, and our famed hospitality,” said Dr. Abdelrazzak Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board. “Our healthcare facilities maintain international standards while providing cost-effective treatments, making Jordan an attractive destination for patients seeking high quality medical care.” Jordan’s strong position in regional medical tourism is highlighted by Iraq leading international demand at 257,396 visitations, followed by Saudi Arabia (216,256) seeking both inpatient and outpatient services. More than 31,920 visitors from Kuwait arrived in Jordan for medical tourism followed by Qatar at 15,524, Bahrain (13,856), Oman (8,828), and the UAE (6,584). GCC visitors particularly value Jordan’s cultural resonance, shared language, and understanding of their healthcare preferences. Recent studies show that Saudi and Kuwaiti patients primarily seek comprehensive diagnostic tests, weight loss surgeries, advanced dental care, and cosmetic dermatology. Omani visitors showed strong interest in vision correction and eye health treatments, while Bahraini …

In a bid to attract more visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, has said plans are in progress to review visa facilitation. Speaking at a recent press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the Minister emphasized the untapped potential of GCC visitors, citing their increasing interest in Caribbean experiences, higher-than-average spending patterns, and tendency toward longer stays. The review will focus on simplifying visa application processes for visitors from the region. “I have been in discussion with our Ministers of National Security and Foreign Affairs to look at more seamless ways for visa facilitation as we recognize the significant economic potential of visitors from the GCC region,” said the Minister during the announcement at a press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. “By removing unnecessary barriers to travel, we are sending a clear message that our country welcomes GCC visitors with open arms.” Currently, United Arab Emirates (UAE) passport holders can get a visa on arrival.  However, ongoing efforts to ease entry requirements for GCC nationals are underway – changes that could further boost arrivals and drive significant revenue growth for Jamaica’s tourism sector. “The GCC is the new frontier for Jamaica as we seek to diversify our source markets. Simplifying this visa arrangement will make it easier for their visitors to seriously consider Jamaica as a vacation option and allow us to tap into this lucrative market,” added Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. Jamaica saw a 29% increase in visitor arrivals from the GCC in 2024. The UAE led with a 37.3% year-on-year growth, followed by strong performances from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar. “We are already …

Rixos Tersane Istanbul is enhancing its offerings to cater to the needs of discerning travellers from the GCC region. In an exclusive interview Managing Director of Rixos Tersane Istanbul, Cetin Pehlivan shared insights on how the property is positioning itself as a premier destination for GCC families and holidaymakers seeking cultural richness, modern comfort, and exceptional service in the heart of Istanbul. “GCC countries represent a key market for us,” the Managing Director emphasized. “Guests from the Gulf value authenticity, comfort, privacy, and exceptional service — all of which align perfectly with the Rixos brand and the unique positioning of Rixos Tersane Istanbul,” he added. Set against the backdrop of a 600-year-old Ottoman shipyard, the hotel blends historical charm with world-class hospitality. With panoramic views of the Golden Horn and a family-friendly atmosphere, it offers a seamless fusion of heritage and luxury — an ideal match for travelers from the GCC. In preparation for the high season, the hotel has rolled out a range of enhancements tailored to Gulf travelers. These include Arabic-speaking staff, halal-certified dining options, family-oriented suites, and culturally sensitive concierge services. Additionally, guests can look forward to exclusive experiences such as private boat tours, access to top cultural events, and bespoke itineraries highlighting Istanbul’s art, gastronomy, and wellness scenes. “Our goal is to make every guest from the Gulf feel not just welcomed, but understood and appreciated,” said the Managing Director A standout feature at Rixos Tersane Istanbul is its “Discovery Routes” — a complimentary series of curated excursions that invite guests to explore Istanbul’s vibrant history and culture. Highlights include private cruises along the Golden Horn, visits to the Istanbul Modern and the Rahmi M. Koç …

Jamaica is making decisive moves to establish a stronger presence in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, with Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett spearheading initiatives to build strategic relationships that could reshape the island’s visitor demographics in the coming years. Jamaica’s Tourism Ministry has identified the GCC region as a high-potential market with visitors seeking premium experiences that align perfectly with Jamaica’s tourism offerings. The initiative comes as part of Jamaica’s broader strategy to diversify its tourism source markets beyond traditional North American and European regions. “The GCC represents one of the world’s fastest-growing outbound travel markets with significant spending power,” Minister Bartlett explained during his recent participation at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. “We’re implementing a comprehensive plan to position Jamaica as a premier destination for the discerning GCC visitor.” Recent Developments  Preliminary discussion with dnata Travel Group, one of the world’s largest travel services providers, headquartered in Dubai. DNATA’s extensive network, which includes more than 15 international travel brands, could provide Jamaica with unprecedented access to the Gulf market. In 2024, the JTB appointed Buzz Travel Marketing Middle East as its regional representative. This move reinforces Jamaica’s on-the-ground commitment to building relationships with the GCC travel trade. Trade engagement is a cornerstone of JTB’s strategy to increase regional awareness and Jamaica is developing market-specific strategies to appeal to GCC visitors’ preferences and requirements, including luxury accommodations and experiences, cultural considerations, and air connectivity. Regional Leadership Jamaica’s initiative also positions the country as a regional leader in tourism diversification, potentially creating pathways for other Caribbean destinations to develop presence in the GCC market. The island has consistently demonstrated innovation in tourism development, and this strategic focus on the GCC could …

The evolution of global travel trends has made shopping an essential part of tourism for travellers coming from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. McArthurGlen Designer Outlets operates 22 strategically located centres across Europe, serving as the top shopping destination for customers seeking luxury brands, and great value. In 2024, visitors from the GCC represented the largest share of McArthurGlen’s tax-free sales, demonstrating the importance of the region in luxury retail spending. Shoppers from the GCC have developed a sensitivity to fashion, an understanding of brand legacy, and an appetite for experiences enfolded in style, attention to detail, and smart spending. With the continued momentum of global travel, the world has developed various new methods to personalise travel experiences, thrusting forward new travel trends. One major shift is towards multigenerational travel. Families are making up for lost time by vacationing together, and shopping is a cross-generational activity everyone can enjoy. 47% of travellers are now opting for multigenerational trips, up 17% from last year . McArthurGlen Designer Outlets’ brand proposition and services are thoughtfully designed to meet both current and emerging travel trends. The brand’s excellence was recently recognized in the Outlet Centre Performance Report Europe (OCPRE) by Ecostra and Magdus, naming its centres among the best in Europe. Designer Outlet Serravalle ranked 1st, while Noventa di Piave (Venice) and Castel Romano (Rome) both secured 8th place. These destinations are perfect for extended families: grandparents relax in cafes or VIP lounges while parents and kids explore over 230 brands. Convenient facilities complete with children’s play areas and even a water park – a unique feature in Designer Outlet Serravalle – make it a secure and inviting space, worthwhile for families taking …

The German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC) announced that GCC visitors to Germany have grown steadily to over 489,689 in 2024, a steady year-on-year increase of 1.2% and an impressive 21% increase when compared with the total visitor numbers in 2022. The announcement was made during a press conference, which was held on the opening day of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025. Yamina Sofo, Director at the German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC), an affiliate of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB), commented, “We have now witnessed considerable growth in visitor numbers from the GCC countries since the end of the pandemic. “These figures underscore Germany’s increasing post pandemic popularity with GCC visitors and bodes well for 2025. With direct flights from the GCC countries to Munich, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hannover, Stuttgart, Cologne and Hamburg, this year we want to encourage GCC residents to visit Germany and experience our diverse year-round tourism offering.” Luis Monreal, Senior Director Sales Middle East Lufthansa Group Airlines, commented: “Lufthansa Group is proud to team up this year with the DZT as their official carrier. We connect the GCC with Germany nonstop since 1960 with its flights to Saudi Arabia. Lufthansa and Eurowings offer both to our passengers German hospitality already on board. Lufthansa, as a premium carrier, offers stable and year-round connections to Frankfurt and Munich from Dubai, Riyadh and Dammam. Our value-airline Eurowings is expanding substantially since 2023 in the GCC by offering more direct connections to other German such as Berlin, Stuttgart, Cologne and Hanover. They meet their GCC customers much closer to their homes as they offer departures also from Dubai World, Abu Dhabi and Jeddah. The strong increase in …

The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) participating at the Arabian Travel Market 2025 will be focusing on promoting sustainable tourism to the GCC travellers. Sustainable tourism growth is a key component of Jamaica’s Vision 2023 development plan.  Recognizing the GCC as having one of the most well-travelled globetrotters, fueled by its spending power and interest in unique destinations, keeps JTBs committed to its goal of positioning the country as a major consideration for travel amongst the nationals and residents of the GCC countries. Reaching out to new regions aims to enhance its global tourism footprint and economic resilience. Its continued presence in the region’s premier travel and trade event demonstrates the recognition of GCCs role in Jamaica’s international tourism growth strategy. In a collaborative push to promote the island, Tourism Minister Hon. Edmund Bartlett will be joined by Director of Tourism Donovan White, together with Jamaica’s top suppliers in the hospitality and leisure sectors at the JTB stand, ready to network with travel and media professionals from across the GCC. Diversifying tourism markets and promoting sustainable growth is a key component of Jamaica’s Vision 2023 development plan. Reaching out to new regions aims to enhance its global tourism footprint and economic resilience. Recognizing the GCC as having one of the most well-travelled globetrotters, fueled by its spending power and interest in unique destinations, keeps JTBs committed to its goal of positioning the country as a major consideration for travel amongst the nationals and residents of the GCC countries. “Our ongoing participation in ATM reflects our dedication to fostering relationships within the GCC market,” stated Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “We are confident that Jamaica’s unique blend of natural beauty …