GCC Outbound Tourism Set to Skyrocket to New Billion by 2033 – Here’s Why Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar are Leading the Charge!

Published on December 29, 2025

According to the latest research by the IMARC Group, the GCC outbound travel and tourism market is projected to grow substantially, with the market size expected to reach $138.06 billion by 2033, up from $70.46 billion in 2024. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.1% from 2025 to 2033. The findings highlight the dynamic shifts occurring within the travel industry across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, with an increasing focus on premium experiences, cultural immersion, and wellness tourism.

Key Drivers of Growth in GCC Outbound Tourism

The expansion of the GCC outbound tourism market can be attributed to a range of factors, including the region’s strategic location, world-class aviation infrastructure, and liberalized visa regimes. These factors have positioned GCC nationals as highly sought-after tourists globally. The market’s growth is further accelerated by the proliferation of low-cost carriers, which has democratized travel for middle-income families, making international travel more accessible to a larger portion of the population.

Additionally, the rise of digital booking platforms has empowered travelers with greater flexibility and convenience in planning their trips, providing easy access to a wide range of options for flights, accommodations, and experiences. This digital shift has not only enhanced transparency but has also intensified competition among travel providers, offering more competitive prices and better customer service.

The Role of Budget Airlines in Expanding Market Reach

The proliferation of budget carriers has fundamentally reshaped the outbound travel landscape in the GCC region. Low-cost airlines operating from major Gulf hubs have significantly expanded their route networks, connecting secondary cities across Asia, Europe, and Africa. These budget-friendly airlines have opened up international travel to families and individuals who might not have otherwise considered it a viable option due to high costs.

By providing affordable airfares, these airlines have increased mobility among younger demographics and expatriate communities, who are now able to travel more frequently and explore a wider range of destinations. This shift has led to a democratization of travel, making it possible for more people to visit international destinations on a regular basis.

Modernizing GCC Airports to Support Increased Demand

The GCC region’s airports have undergone significant transformation, evolving into world-class hubs equipped with extensive route networks, efficient transit facilities, and competitive pricing. The modern airports are designed to accommodate the increasing number of travelers, offering superior passenger amenities and a streamlined travel experience. These improvements have helped to enhance the overall travel experience and have encouraged more frequent trips among Gulf residents.

The expansion of these airports has also bolstered the aviation sector, making it easier for GCC nationals to travel abroad. As a result, GCC countries are emerging as important sources of outbound travelers, and their impact on global tourism is becoming more pronounced.

Digital Platforms Empowering GCC Travelers

The rise of online booking platforms has given GCC travelers unprecedented control over their travel arrangements. Through these digital platforms, passengers can now compare prices, read service reviews, and access customer feedback across multiple providers. This increased transparency has not only enhanced consumer confidence but has also intensified competition within the travel industry.

As more GCC nationals become accustomed to digital travel tools, the process of planning, booking, and managing trips has become more seamless and personalized. These platforms also allow travelers to access tailored recommendations based on their preferences, providing them with an enriched and customized experience. The shift to digital booking has, in turn, become one of the key drivers of the region’s expanding tourism market.

The Unified GCC Tourist Visa: Facilitating Easier Travel

A significant development supporting the growth of the GCC outbound tourism market is the introduction of the Unified GCC Tourist Visa. This visa will allow seamless travel across all six member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council—UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain—under a single digital application. This visa system will simplify travel for nationals within the GCC, enhancing regional mobility and encouraging cross-border tourism.

With the Unified GCC Tourist Visa, travelers will no longer need to apply for separate visas for each GCC country, which can be a complex and time-consuming process. This streamlined approach will help increase tourism flows within the region, providing an added incentive for travelers to explore neighboring countries.

Evolving Preferences: Premium Experiences and Wellness Tourism

As the GCC outbound tourism market continues to grow, travelers are increasingly seeking premium experiences, which include luxury accommodations, personalized services, and exclusive access to cultural and heritage sites. This shift reflects broader trends in the global tourism industry, where affluent travelers are prioritizing high-quality experiences over budget travel.

Additionally, there is a growing demand for wellness tourism, where travelers are seeking destinations that offer health and wellness experiences, such as spa treatments, yoga retreats, and wellness resorts. GCC nationals, in particular, are drawn to destinations that offer holistic experiences, blending relaxation with cultural immersion and exploration.

The Future Outlook for the GCC Outbound Tourism Market

Looking ahead, the GCC outbound tourism market is expected to continue its upward trajectory. The increasing preference for experiential travel, combined with enhanced air connectivity and simplified visa processes, will contribute to further market expansion. As younger generations in the GCC continue to gain financial independence and seek new cultural experiences, the demand for international travel will likely grow even further.

The expansion of low-cost carriers will further democratize international travel, making it possible for even more families and individuals to explore the world. Additionally, the increasing availability of online booking tools will empower GCC travelers to make more informed decisions about where to go and what to do, providing greater flexibility and convenience in planning their trips.

Conclusion

The GCC outbound tourism market is on a clear path to significant growth, with projections indicating that it will reach $138.06 billion by 2033. This growth is driven by a variety of factors, including the rise of budget airlines, the expansion of digital booking platforms, and the growing demand for premium experiences and wellness tourism. The introduction of the Unified GCC Tourist Visa will further facilitate travel within the region, making it easier for GCC nationals to explore neighboring countries.

As the aviation infrastructure continues to improve and the preferences of GCC travelers evolve, the region is set to become an even more influential player in the global tourism market. With these developments in mind, the future of GCC outbound tourism looks bright, offering exciting opportunities for travelers and businesses alike.