Gulf Statistical Centre: $132 Billion... Gulf Tourism Revenues in 2025
Growth in the Gulf tourism sector with revenues of $131.9 billion and 75.7 million tourists received
Translated by Alqyas from Al-Qabas — Original source
Gulf tourism continued its growth in 2025, generating revenues of $131.9 billion, while the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries welcomed 75.7 million tourists, indicators that reflect the expansion of tourism activity and the growing role of the sector in the region’s economies last year, according to data from the Statistical Center of the Gulf Cooperation Council. According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), citing the Center’s weekly publication titled “Gulf Tourism in the Era of Smart Transformation,” the number of tourists traveling between GCC member states rose to 20.1 million, representing a 3.6% increase compared to 2024. The hotel sector also expanded, with the number of hotel establishments reaching 12,400, a 4.8% increase, signaling an expansion in the sector’s capacity and a diversification of accommodation options available to visitors. Tourism plays a pivotal role in supporting economic diversification programs in Gulf countries, given its linkages with transport, aviation, hospitality, retail, and entertainment sectors, as well as its contribution to stimulating investments, creating jobs, and boosting non-oil GDP.
