Kuwait, February 18, 2025 – According to a recent press release from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) General Secretariat, Jasem Albudaiwi, the Secretary-General of the GCC, has highlighted impressive growth in the region’s tourism sector. In 2023, the number of international tourists arriving in GCC countries reached a staggering 68.1 million, marking a 42.8% increase compared to 2019. This surge in tourism translated into a remarkable $110.4 billion in tourism revenues, a 28.2% growth from 2019, further solidifying the region’s position as a significant global tourism hub.
Albudaiwi delivered these insights during his speech at the 9th meeting of the Committee of Their Excellencies Ministers Responsible for Tourism in the GCC, held today in Kuwait. The meeting, which was chaired by Abdul Rahman Badah Al Mutairi, the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs in Kuwait, also marked a momentous step in the GCC’s strategic planning for tourism development. Al Mutairi, as the President of the current session, played a key role in advancing the GCC’s tourism initiatives, including the Gulf Tourism Strategy 2023–2030.
In his address, Albudaiwi emphasized the crucial role of the Gulf Tourism Strategy 2023–2030, which aims to further elevate the GCC’s tourism standing both regionally and globally. He noted that the strategy aligns with the directives of the leaders of the GCC countries, reinforcing their collective commitment to shaping a prosperous future for the tourism sector in the region. This ambitious plan is not only a reflection of the strong governmental will but is also backed by the efforts of the Committee of Their Excellencies Ministers Responsible for Tourism in the GCC, which has been instrumental in driving these initiatives.
The Secretary-General expressed pride in the GCC countries' tourism achievements, which are propelling the region forward on the international stage. These advancements are pivotal to the region’s future, particularly as they work toward meeting the targets set for 2030. Albudaiwi stressed that, with the current growth trajectory, the GCC has already achieved 52.9% of its 2030 target for international tourist arrivals, positioning the region for even greater success.
Albudaiwi also provided a closer look at the tourism sector’s economic impact. He revealed that tourism now represents a significant contributor to the GCC’s economy, generating $223.4 billion in GDP in 2023, reflecting a 29.4% annual growth rate between 2022 and 2023. This growth highlights the sector’s role as a powerful engine for economic diversification and sustainability in the region.
Moreover, the tourism sector’s employment impact was equally impressive. Albudaiwi confirmed that the industry added 1.5 million jobs in 2023, marking a 17% increase in employment compared to 2020. These figures demonstrate the sector’s vital role in creating job opportunities and supporting the region’s workforce development.
In addition to these statistics, Albudaiwi proudly noted that the GCC’s share of global tourism now stands at 5.2% for international arrivals and 7.2% for international tourism revenues. These figures underscore the region’s growing significance as a key player in the global tourism market, cementing its position as one of the most attractive and dynamic destinations for international travelers.
Albudaiwi’s remarks not only highlight the incredible growth the GCC has experienced in the tourism sector over the past few years, but also emphasize the region’s continued commitment to developing a sustainable, diverse, and competitive tourism landscape. With significant investments in infrastructure, cultural initiatives, and global marketing campaigns, the GCC is well-positioned to meet its ambitious targets for 2030 and beyond.
This remarkable progress reflects the Gulf countries' broader economic vision, as tourism plays an integral role in their long-term development plans. As the region looks to the future, the ongoing success of the tourism sector will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of economic strategy, bringing both tangible benefits to the region's economies and enhancing the global reputation of the GCC as a leading destination for travelers from around the world.