GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market Overview

Market Size in 2024: USD 70.46 Billion

Market Size in 2033: USD 138.06 Billion

Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 7.1%

According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, "GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Tourism Type, Spending Type, Age Group, Booking Method, and Country, 2025-2033", the GCC outbound travel and tourism market size was valued at USD 70.46 billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 138.06 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025-2033.

Growth Factors in the GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market

The GCC region's economic prosperity, driven by oil revenues and diversification efforts, has significantly increased disposable incomes, enabling residents to spend more on international travel. For instance, in the UAE, a growing affluent middle class has fueled demand for luxury travel experiences, such as exclusive resorts in the Maldives or cultural tours in Europe. This financial freedom allows GCC travelers to explore diverse destinations, from leisure trips to business ventures, boosting the outbound tourism market. Additionally, high-income professionals in Saudi Arabia and Qatar are increasingly investing in premium travel packages, further driving market growth by prioritizing quality and unique experiences.

The expansion of GCC-based airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways has made international travel more accessible and convenient. These carriers offer extensive global networks, connecting GCC residents to destinations like Southeast Asia, Europe, and North America with direct flights. For example, Qatar Airways’ increased routes to European cities like Paris and London have simplified travel for families seeking cultural experiences. This improved connectivity reduces travel time and costs, encouraging frequent international trips. The addition of budget-friendly options by airlines like Flydubai also caters to a broader demographic, further stimulating outbound tourism from the region.

The GCC boasts a youthful demographic, with a significant portion under 30, eager to explore global destinations. This tech-savvy group relies on social media and online travel agencies (OTAs) like Booking.com to discover and book trips. For instance, millennials in Kuwait often plan adventure trips to destinations like Thailand, inspired by Instagram influencers showcasing vibrant cultures. Their enthusiasm for unique experiences, such as eco-tourism in Costa Rica or food tours in Italy, drives demand for diverse travel options. This demographic’s digital fluency also supports the rise of seamless booking platforms, further propelling outbound travel.

Key Trends in the GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market

GCC travelers are increasingly seeking immersive, experiential travel over traditional sightseeing. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, prioritize authentic experiences like vineyard tours in Tuscany or wildlife safaris in South Africa. For example, a growing number of UAE residents opt for wellness retreats in Bali, combining relaxation with cultural exploration. This trend reflects a desire for meaningful connections with destinations, focusing on local cuisines, adventure sports, and cultural heritage. Travel agencies are responding by offering tailored packages, such as culinary workshops in Japan, catering to this demand for unique, hands-on experiences that create lasting memories.

Sustainability is reshaping GCC outbound tourism as travelers become more eco-conscious. Many GCC residents now prefer destinations and accommodations promoting green practices, such as eco-lodges in New Zealand or low-carbon tours in Scandinavia. For instance, Qatari travelers are increasingly choosing destinations like Costa Rica, known for its commitment to environmental preservation. This trend is supported by government initiatives in the GCC, like the UAE’s focus on sustainable tourism policies, encouraging operators to offer eco-friendly packages. As awareness grows, travel companies are prioritizing sustainable options to align with these environmentally responsible preferences.

The rise of remote work has fueled digital nomadism, with GCC residents combining work and leisure during international trips. Young professionals from Bahrain and Oman, for example, are increasingly choosing destinations like Georgia or Portugal, which offer digital nomad visas and robust infrastructure for remote work. This trend allows travelers to extend their stays abroad, boosting local economies through longer hotel bookings and coworking space usage. Travel platforms are adapting by offering packages that include high-speed internet and flexible accommodations, catering to this growing segment of GCC travelers seeking work-life balance in picturesque global settings.

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GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Industry Segmentation:

The report has segmented the market into the following categories:

Analysis by Tourism Type:

Analysis by Spending Type:

Analysis by Age Group:

Analysis by Booking Method:

Country Analysis:

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined, along with the profiles of the key players.

Future Outlook

The GCC outbound travel and tourism market is poised for robust growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. As disposable incomes continue to rise, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, demand for luxury and experiential travel will soar, with travelers seeking destinations like Switzerland for adventure or Japan for cultural immersion. Enhanced air connectivity and simplified visa processes, such as the GCC’s proposed unified tourist visa, will further ease international travel. However, challenges like geopolitical instability and economic fluctuations may require adaptive strategies from travel operators. By leveraging AI-driven travel planning and sustainable practices, the market is set to thrive, offering tailored, eco-conscious experiences to an increasingly global-minded GCC population.

Research Methodology:

The report employs a comprehensive research methodology, combining primary and secondary data sources to validate findings. It includes market assessments, surveys, expert opinions, and data triangulation techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability.

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