Post by : Rameen Ariff

The travel and tourism sector in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries contributed $247.1 billion to the region’s gross domestic product (GDP) in 2024, marking a significant 31.9 per cent growth since 2019, according to the GCC Statistical Centre.

This sector is projected to play an even bigger role in the coming years, with its contribution to GDP expected to reach $371.2 billion, or 13.3 per cent, by 2034. Tourism has emerged as a key driver of economic, social, and environmental development across the GCC.

Tourism also continues to create jobs, both directly and indirectly. In 2024, the sector’s contribution to employment was valued at $4.3 billion, a 24.9 per cent increase from 2019. By 2034, the industry is expected to generate approximately 1.3 million new jobs, offering opportunities for youth and women to participate actively in the workforce. Women represented 13 per cent of tourism employment in 2024, reflecting a remarkable growth of 73.2 per cent since 2019.

The GCC has also made strides in sustainable tourism, prioritising the preservation of natural resources and promoting eco-tourism. By 2023, natural reserves, including terrestrial and marine areas, accounted for 19 per cent of the total GCC area, showing a 7.5 per cent increase compared with 2022.

Intra-GCC tourism has strengthened regional integration, growing by 52.1 per cent in 2024 compared with 2019. Around 19.3 million tourists travelled within the GCC in 2024, making up 26.7 per cent of total international visitors.

The findings highlight tourism’s growing importance in the GCC, not only as an economic contributor but also as a platform for sustainable development, job creation, and regional cooperation.

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