Jordan Unites with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Turkey, and Egypt to Lead New Middle East Tourism Boom with Record Visitor Spend and Growing Demand from Asia, Europe, and the US

Published on July 17, 2025

By: Rana Pratap

Jordan joins forces with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Turkey and Egypt to launch new Middle East tourism revival with record visitor spend and soaring demand from Asia, Europe and the US in remarkable regional travel renaissance by these countries that are now leading one of the world’s speediest post-pandemic travel rebounds. Driven by rapid growth in international arrivals, record-breaking revenues and foreign investment, as well as initiatives like extended e-visas and massive infrastructure projects, this partnership is reshaping the role of the region in global tourism. With Jordan posting revenue growth of almost 12% and Saudi Arabia leading growth worldwide, the upward swing is indicative of a new era in the Middle East led by long-haul markets and concerted national management strategies.

Jordan: Strong Revenue Growth Despite Regional Tensions

Jordan’s tourism revenue grew by 11.9% during the first half of 2025, reaching $3.667 billion, even with a modest 3.7% drop in June due to escalating regional tensions. According to the Central Bank of Jordan, the growth is primarily driven by international demand—especially from emerging and long-haul markets.

• Asian tourists contributed the highest surge, up 42.9%.
• European visitors rose by 35.6%.
• American tourists increased their contribution by 25.8%.
• Arab visitors added 11.5% growth.
• Tourists from other nationalities contributed an additional 43% in revenue growth.

Conversely, Jordanian expatriates visiting the country spent 0.8% less than last year. Outbound tourism also rose slightly, with Jordanians spending $999.7 million abroad in H1 2025, up 3.3%, although June posted a sharp 22.7% drop, signaling travel caution.

Jordan’s balanced recovery, despite geopolitical pressure, marks its integration into a wider bloc of Middle Eastern countries reshaping regional travel dynamics.

Discover Jordan’s Timeless Wonders

Amman – Urban Vibes and Ancient Echoes
Things to Do: Explore ancient ruins, browse artisan markets, and enjoy panoramic café terraces.
Places to Visit:

• The Citadel and Roman Theatre for sweeping city views
• Rainbow Street for boutique shopping and street eats
• The Jordan Museum for history from the Stone Age to modern times

Petra – The Lost City of Stone
Things to Do: Hike ancient trails, marvel at rock-carved temples, and watch Petra light up at night.
Places to Visit:

• The Treasury (Al-Khazneh) at the end of the Siq canyon
• The Monastery for panoramic views after a 900-step hike
• Petra by Night for a candle-lit spectacle through the gorge

Aqaba – Red Sea Relaxation and Adventure
Things to Do: Go diving or snorkeling, unwind at a luxury resort, or take a glass-bottom boat tour.
Places to Visit:

• South Beach and Tala Bay for marine life encounters
• Ayla Oasis for high-end dining and golf
• Aqaba Fortress for Ottoman history by the shore

Saudi Arabia: World Leader in Tourism Growth

Saudi Arabia topped global tourism revenue growth in Q1 2025, outpacing all other countries. The Kingdom recorded SAR 49.4 billion (approx. US $13.2 billion) in international visitor spending—an increase of more than 10% from last year and 102% above 2019 levels.

• The country hosted 30 million international visitors in 2024.
• The total number of travelers (domestic + international) reached a historic 116 million.
• Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy has unlocked massive infrastructure projects including NEOM, Diriyah Gate, and Red Sea developments.

Visa reforms—including simplified eVisas, a 96-hour stopover visa, and unified GCC tourist permits—have significantly increased Saudi Arabia’s accessibility to global travelers.

With robust growth across business tourism, religious pilgrimage (Hajj and Umrah), and cultural events like the Riyadh Season, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a centerpiece of global tourism revival.

Saudi Arabia’s Bold Tourism Transformation

Riyadh – Where Culture Meets the Future
Things to Do: Shop in glittering malls, tour heritage sites, and visit emerging arts districts.
Places to Visit:

• Al Masmak Fortress for history buffs
• Kingdom Centre Sky Bridge for skyline views
• Diriyah Gate for immersive culture and dining

Jeddah – The Red Sea’s Cultural Capital
Things to Do: Stroll old town streets, dive into the sea, and feast on local seafood.
Places to Visit:

• Al-Balad Historic District with coral-stone architecture
• Jeddah Corniche and Waterfront Park for ocean views
• The Floating Mosque for peaceful seaside prayers

AlUla – Desert Majesty and Hidden History
Things to Do: Explore rock formations, ancient tombs, and attend music festivals under desert stars.
Places to Visit:

• Hegra (Madain Saleh), Saudi’s first UNESCO site
• Elephant Rock, the iconic sandstone landmark
• Maraya Concert Hall, the world’s largest mirrored building

United Arab Emirates: Dual Powerhouses Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Dubai attracted 5.31 million international visitors in Q1 2025—a 3% rise compared to the previous year. Hotel occupancy hit record levels, and international spending exceeded US $179.8 billion in 2024, solidifying Dubai’s position as the financial and tourism epicenter of the Middle East.

Key tourism pillars in Dubai:

• Luxury retail and shopping festivals
• Cultural heritage at Al Fahidi and Jumeirah
• Iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and The Palm

Dubai has also aggressively embraced remote worker visas, long-term residency options, and transit stopover tourism.

Abu Dhabi: Culture and Wellness Tourism Rise

Abu Dhabi hosted 1.4 million overnight guests in Q1 2025. Hotel revenues surged to $630 million, an 18% year-on-year increase. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) rose by 25%, reaching $131.8.

Key developments in Abu Dhabi:

• Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim projects
• Yas Island’s entertainment district
• Eco-tourism in Al Ain and Liwa

The UAE’s streamlined visa-on-arrival for over 80 nationalities and Golden Visa program further boost appeal.

UAE’s World of Wonders

Dubai – Innovation, Luxury, and Skyline Views
Things to Do: Dune bash, shop luxury, and marvel at sky-piercing towers.
Places to Visit:

• Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall for urban thrills
• Dubai Marina and JBR Beach for leisure and nightlife
• Al Fahidi Historical District for cultural contrast

Abu Dhabi – Grand Mosques and Island Escapes
Things to Do: Immerse in Islamic art, ride roller coasters, or relax on island retreats.
Places to Visit:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for white marble grandeur
• Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island
• Yas Island’s Ferrari World, Warner Bros., and SeaWorld

Sharjah – Arts, Heritage, and Serenity
Things to Do: Visit museums, kayak in mangroves, and explore Islamic heritage.
Places to Visit:

• Sharjah Art Museum and Art Foundation spaces
• Al Noor Island for butterfly gardens and sculptures
• Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

Qatar: Small Size, Big Results

Qatar welcomed around 1.5 million tourists in Q1 2025, maintaining strong momentum after a 25% rise in visitor arrivals in 2024. By end of 2025, the country is expected to surpass 5.3 million visitors, driven largely by:

• GCC source markets (accounting for up to 51% of total traffic)
• Sporting and cultural events post-FIFA World Cup 2022
• Luxury hotel growth, with Doha leading the charge

Tourism now contributes over 8% to GDP, with high average daily rates (ADR) and RevPAR metrics in key cities.

Qatar’s unified visa platform and Hamad International Airport’s world-class transit services have transformed it into a central regional hub.

Qatar’s Cultural Rise on the Gulf Stage

Doha – Tradition Meets Futurism
Things to Do: Wander museums, shop souqs, and admire architecture.
Places to Visit:

• Museum of Islamic Art and M7 design district
• Souq Waqif for spices, textiles, and cafes
• Katara Cultural Village for arts, music, and galleries

Al Wakrah – Coastal Calm and Local Charm
Things to Do: Relax on beaches, dine outdoors, and visit sports landmarks.
Places to Visit:

• Al Wakrah Heritage Souq for dining by the sea
• Al Wakrah Public Beach for sunset strolls
• Al Janoub Stadium from FIFA 2022 legacy

Lusail – Qatar’s City of the Future
Things to Do: Explore luxury malls, ride e-scooters, and see modern urban planning.
Places to Visit:

• Lusail Marina Promenade
• Place Vendôme Mall with fountains and high-end brands
• Lusail Stadium, the World Cup final venue

Bahrain: Quiet Giant of Gulf Tourism

Bahrain has recorded one of the most explosive rebounds in the region:

• Q2 2025 arrivals jumped 38% over Q1.
• Year-on-year revenue rose a staggering 562%.
• The Kingdom is targeting 14.1 million tourists by 2026.

In H1 2023, Bahrain hosted 5.9 million visitors, generating BD 924 million (~US $2.5 billion) in revenue. The average spend per tourist is expected to rise to BHD 74.8, with average stays reaching 3.5 nights.

Key strengths:

• Easy entry with visa-free or visa-on-arrival for GCC and 100+ countries
• Cultural destinations like Manama and Muharraq
• Strong appeal to weekend travelers from Saudi Arabia

With luxury marina resorts, festivals, and Formula One anchoring its tourism offerings, Bahrain is becoming a key player in regional leisure travel.

Bahrain’s Blend of Heritage and Coastal Cool

Manama – Markets, Museums, and Modern Life
Things to Do: Dive into Bahrain’s pearl-diving legacy, shop the souq, and enjoy rooftop lounges.
Places to Visit:

• Bahrain National Museum for Dilmun relics
• Bab Al Bahrain market gateway
• Block 338 for food, nightlife, and local art

Muharraq – Where the Island’s History Lives On
Things to Do: Explore pearl diving trails, old merchant houses, and restored architecture.
Places to Visit:

• Pearling Path UNESCO Site
• Shaikh Isa Bin Ali House for a peek into royal history
• Arad Fort at sunset for sea and sky views

Riffa – Regal Residences and Shopping Secrets
Things to Do: Visit hilltop forts, tee off at luxury golf clubs, and shop with locals.
Places to Visit:

• Riffa Fort overlooking lush valleys
• Royal Golf Club for championship play
• Riffa Bazaar for local sweets and spices

Turkey (Türkiye): Q1 Record and Ambitious 2025 Targets

Türkiye recorded $9.45 billion in tourism revenue in Q1 2025, representing TL 363.7 billion, and hosted 8.84 million international visitors, setting a new record for the first quarter.

• 2025 targets: 65 million arrivals, $64 billion in receipts
• Cultural, medical, and beach tourism continue to drive demand
• Tourists from Europe, Russia, the Gulf, and Asia make up key markets

Istanbul, Antalya, and Cappadocia remain star destinations, while the country continues to promote year-round tourism with winter sports, rural eco-routes, and historical trail development.

Visa accessibility remains high, with eVisa access for over 100 countries and simplified transit entry policies.

Türkiye’s Crossroads of Continents

Istanbul – History, Bazaars, and Bosphorus Views
Things to Do: Sail between continents, shop 4,000 stalls, and tour Ottoman palaces.
Places to Visit:

• Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque
• Grand Bazaar and Spice Market
• Topkapi Palace and Bosphorus boat tours

Cappadocia – Fairy Chimneys and Underground Cities
Things to Do: Fly at sunrise, hike valleys, and explore cave homes.
Places to Visit:

• Göreme Open-Air Museum with Byzantine cave churches
• Hot Air Balloon Rides at dawn
• Derinkuyu Underground City

Antalya – Coastal Beauty and Roman Ruins
Things to Do: Swim in turquoise waters, wander ancient streets, and enjoy resort life.
Places to Visit:

• Kaleiçi (Old Town) and Hadrian’s Gate
• Düden Waterfalls and Konyaaltı Beach
• Aspendos Roman Theater for summer concerts

Egypt: Tourism Revival Driven by Culture and Safety

Egypt welcomed 8.7 million tourists between January and June 2025—a 24% increase over the same period last year. Q1 alone brought in 3.9 million visitors, and the government aims to reach 17–18 million arrivals by year-end.

• 2024 tourism revenues hit $15.3 billion
• 2025 target: $16.45 billion+
• Recovery led by European, Russian, and Gulf travelers

Cairo, Luxor, Aswan, and the Red Sea resorts continue to dominate the travel landscape. The upcoming Grand Egyptian Museum and improved airport infrastructure are key investments supporting long-term growth.

Egypt’s visa system has improved significantly, with eVisa access for over 75 countries and simplified airport entry procedures.

Egypt’s Eternal Allure

Cairo – Where Pyramids and People Collide
Things to Do: Gaze at wonders, bargain in bazaars, and dive into Egyptology.
Places to Visit:

• Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx
• Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM)
• Khan el-Khalili for gold, spices, and souvenirs

Luxor – Open-Air Museum of Ancient Power
Things to Do: Cruise the Nile, visit pharaoh tombs, and explore sacred temples.
Places to Visit:

• Valley of the Kings and Temple of Hatshepsut
• Karnak Temple complex
• Luxor Temple, illuminated at night

Sharm El Sheikh – Red Sea Bliss and Desert Thrills
Things to Do: Snorkel coral reefs, ride camels through sand dunes, and enjoy resort luxury.
Places to Visit:

• Naama Bay for shopping and nightlife
• Ras Mohammed National Park
• St. Catherine’s Monastery near Mount Sinai

Shared Regional Drivers Behind the Middle East Tourism Boom

All seven nations are harnessing similar levers to drive this unprecedented tourism expansion. These include:

1. Visa Policy Innovations

• Jordan: Expanding bilateral visa agreements and eVisa rollout
• Saudi Arabia: Launch of 96-hour transit visa, Umrah eVisa, and unified GCC entry
• UAE: Visa-on-arrival for 80+ countries, Golden Visa, and retirement residency
• Qatar: Hayya platform and unified GCC visa discussions
• Bahrain: Visa-free access for most of Europe and simplified online visas
• Türkiye: Wide eVisa access and transit-friendly policies
• Egypt: Streamlined online visa portal and expanded entry access

2. Event-Driven Demand

• Sports (Formula One, golf, tennis, football tournaments)
• Cultural seasons (Riyadh Season, Dubai Shopping Festival, Egypt’s Sun Festival)
• Major upcoming expos and conferences

3. Strategic Infrastructure Spending

• New airports (e.g., Red Sea International, NEOM, Grand Egyptian Airport upgrades)
• Hotel mega-projects (Mandarin Oriental Muscat, Atlantis The Royal Dubai, Four Seasons NEOM)
• Interconnected transport links (e.g., GCC rail, ferry routes)

4. Diversified Tourism Themes

• Adventure and eco-tourism in Jordan and Egypt
• Desert luxury in Saudi and Qatar
• Beach and island escapes in Bahrain and UAE
• Wellness and medical tourism in Türkiye

Jordan unites with Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Turkey, and Egypt to lead the new Middle East tourism boom because all seven countries are reporting record visitor spending, surging arrivals from Asia, Europe, and the US, and coordinated strategies to power regional travel growth. This united momentum is fueled by visa reforms, major infrastructure investments, and a shared push to reposition the Middle East as a global tourism hub.

A Region Redefining Global Travel

Jordan joins Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Turkey and Egypt as the Middle East has suddenly become a single travel bloc, and arguably a trend setter on the world stage for the post-pandemic travel recovery. With visionary policies, ambitious mega-projects, and blocks of record-breaking traffic and revenue figures, this regional alliance isn’t just drawing in millions –– it is redefining the future of global travel.

As the world searches for destinations that are reliable, safe and with varied experiences to offer, the Middle East certainly delivers on all scores, and then some.