Saudi Arabia Beats Qatar, UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, And Other Middle Eastern Nations In Tourism Growth, Paving The Way For Unmatched Visitor Experiences In 2025 : What You Need To Know

Published on December 22, 2025

Saudi Arabia Beats Qatar, UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, and Other Middle Eastern Nations in Tourism Growth, Paving the Way for Unmatched Visitor Experiences in 2025 due to its unprecedented surge in inbound tourism, fueled by its strategic investments in luxury resorts, cultural landmarks, and global events under the Vision 2030 initiative. With a record-breaking number of visitors in 2025 and a projected 30 million inbound tourists, Saudi Arabia is leading the charge in the region’s tourism boom. As the Kingdom attracts travelers seeking both modern luxury and deep historical experiences, it continues to outpace regional rivals like the UAE and Qatar, reshaping the Middle East’s tourism landscape with unparalleled opportunities for exploration and growth. This article explores how Saudi Arabia, along with other rising Middle Eastern destinations, is transforming into a global tourism powerhouse.

The Middle East is witnessing an extraordinary boom in tourism in 2025, with countries across the region setting new records for international arrivals and reshaping their tourism landscapes. Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan are not just attracting more visitors—they are elevating their status on the global tourism map. From ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza and Petra to modern marvels like the Burj Khalifa and the Red Sea Project, the region is offering a diverse range of experiences that appeal to every type of traveler, whether seeking adventure, luxury, cultural immersion, or relaxation. As these nations continue to invest in cutting-edge infrastructure, world-class resorts, and large-scale tourism initiatives, the Middle East has become a focal point for international tourism. This article takes a closer look at the remarkable tourism growth, key attractions, and the rising status of each of these countries in 2025, highlighting what makes each destination unique and why they are becoming must-visit spots for travelers worldwide.

Saudi Arabia Beats All Expectations: Leading the Middle East’s Tourism Boom in 2025

In 2025, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a leader in the Middle East’s tourism sector, surpassing expectations and solidifying its position as one of the region’s top destinations. With the Kingdom targeting 30 million inbound tourists by the end of 2025, the country is on track to exceed the previous year’s impressive figure of 29.7 million inbound arrivals, marking an 8% growth year-on-year.

Tourist Arrival Growth: A Steady Climb

In the first half of 2025, Saudi Arabia saw around 15 million visitors, staying well on track to meet its ambitious goal. The Q1 2025 figures alone show an astounding 48% year-on-year growth in inbound tourism, highlighting the growing appeal of the Kingdom’s offerings. This surge is driven by enhanced air connectivity, luxury resorts, and high-profile events, all part of the Vision 2030 initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and positioning Saudi Arabia as a premier tourism hub.

Top Attractions: A Land of Heritage and Modern Wonders

Saudi Arabia is increasingly becoming a must-visit destination, offering a blend of rich heritage and modern marvels:

• Al Ula: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Al Ula is a cultural treasure trove, with ancient rock formations, tombs, and archaeological sites. The government’s investment in tourism infrastructure is set to enhance its appeal as a cultural tourism hotspot.
• The Red Sea Project: Spanning over 28,000 square kilometers, this development includes ultra-luxury resorts and pristine beaches, positioning Saudi Arabia as a premier destination for wellness and luxury tourism.
• Riyadh: The capital city of Saudi Arabia is increasingly becoming a vibrant cultural and business hub. From its futuristic skyline to historical sites such as Diriyah (the birthplace of the Kingdom), Riyadh offers a mix of modernity and history for every traveler.

UAE Tourism Boom: Dubai and Abu Dhabi Lead the Charge in 2025

The UAE continues to shine as a global tourism powerhouse, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi leading the way in attracting millions of visitors in 2025. The UAE’s tourism sector has experienced consistent growth, and early 2025 data suggests a trajectory that will surpass the previous year’s arrivals.

Tourist Arrival Growth: Dubai’s Record-Breaking Year

In 2024, Dubai welcomed around 18.72 million international visitors, and by the end of H1 2025, the city had already exceeded 9.88 million visitors. The total number is expected to exceed the 2024 figures, driven by tourism campaigns, major events, and a focus on luxury experiences. Dubai’s position as a leader in global tourism is reinforced by its luxury shopping, iconic landmarks, and cutting-edge developments.

Top Attractions: A Fusion of Old and New

Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to attract visitors with their unique blend of ultra-modern architecture, world-class shopping, and cultural experiences.

• Burj Khalifa: As the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa remains one of the most visited attractions in Dubai. Visitors flock to the observation decks for panoramic views of the city and beyond.
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi): An architectural masterpiece, this mosque is a must-visit for those interested in Islamic art, culture, and history.
• Palm Jumeirah (Dubai): This man-made island is home to luxury hotels, restaurants, and shopping destinations, making it a popular spot for leisure travelers.

Qatar Rapid Growth in Tourism as 2025 Progresses

Qatar, the smallest of the GCC countries, has been making significant strides in attracting international tourists. In 2024, Qatar welcomed approximately 5.1 million visitors, marking a 25% increase compared to the previous year. By Q3 2025, figures indicate the country will reach 3.5 million visitors, highlighting the strong ongoing momentum.

Tourist Arrival Growth: A Strong Year-on-Year Rise

Qatar’s tourism growth can be attributed to a combination of luxury experiences, business tourism, and sports tourism. Qatar’s investments in infrastructure, including state-of-the-art airports and hotels, continue to attract high-end international travelers.

Top Attractions: A Glimpse of the Past and the Future

Qatar is a blend of modernity and rich cultural history, offering a variety of experiences:

• Museum of Islamic Art (Doha): This stunning museum houses a collection of over 14,000 pieces of Islamic art, attracting visitors interested in history, architecture, and art.
• The Pearl-Qatar: A luxurious man-made island, The Pearl-Qatar is home to upscale shops, restaurants, and the finest marinas.
• Al Zubarah Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fort is a prime example of Qatar’s rich archaeological heritage.

Egypt Rising from the Shadows with Historic Growth in 2025

In 2025, Egypt is experiencing a tourism revival, with projections suggesting an increase to 18 million visitors by year’s end. This would mark a 15-20% increase compared to 2024, a year that saw 15.7 million tourists arriving, driven by a return of international travelers seeking both adventure and cultural enrichment.

Tourist Arrival Growth: Rebound After the Pandemic

Egypt’s tourism sector is benefiting from global recognition and major new developments, such as the completion of the Grand Egyptian Museum. With international visitors returning in droves, Egypt continues to attract tourists interested in exploring its ancient sites and rich history.

Top Attractions: Ancient Wonders and Modern Marvels

Egypt is a country steeped in ancient history, but it also offers a wide range of modern attractions:

• Pyramids of Giza: The Great Pyramids and the Sphinx are the undisputed symbols of Egypt’s ancient past, drawing millions of visitors each year.
• Luxor and Karnak Temples: The temples of Luxor and Karnak offer a spectacular glimpse into ancient Egyptian civilization, with their colossal columns and intricate hieroglyphs.
• The Nile River: A cruise along the Nile offers travelers a chance to witness Egypt’s history from a different perspective, passing through famous sites like Aswan and Cairo.

Bahrain Tourism Booms in the Island Kingdom

Bahrain, known for its vibrant culture and historical significance, is seeing tourism numbers soar in 2025. The Kingdom’s appeal is growing as more than 14.88 million visitors arrived in 2024, with expectations of continued growth in the coming year.

Tourist Arrival Growth: Consistent Growth in Arrivals

The steady increase in arrivals is partly due to sports tourism (especially during the Formula 1 Grand Prix) and the Kingdom’s growing appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travelers. Bahrain’s cultural scene, along with new hotels and resorts, has positioned the country as an attractive alternative for Gulf region tourism.

Top Attractions: History and Modernity Blend Perfectly

Bahrain offers a mix of cultural experiences, from ancient forts to contemporary attractions:

• Bahrain Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fort offers a look into the country’s ancient history and strategic importance throughout the ages.
• Manama: The capital city is known for its vibrant markets, modern skyscrapers, and the Bahrain National Museum, which offers rich cultural insights.
• Al Areen Wildlife Park: A family-friendly attraction, this wildlife park features a variety of animal species and offers eco-tourism experiences.

Oman Tourism Boom With Natural Beauty and Heritage Shine in 2025

Oman is continuing to see positive growth in its tourism sector, with 1.14 million international visitors in the first half of 2025. This growth is a reflection of Oman’s focus on nature-based tourism, including its deserts, mountains, and beaches.

Tourist Arrival Growth: Steady Increase in Visitor Numbers

Oman’s tourism industry is benefiting from increased interest in eco-tourism, adventure travel, and heritage tourism, as travelers flock to the country’s natural wonders and cultural sites.

Top Attractions: Nature, Culture, and Adventure

Oman is known for its stunning landscapes and unique culture:

• Muscat: Oman’s capital is a mix of old-world charm and modern development. The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques in the world.
• Wadi Shab: This breathtaking valley offers crystal-clear water pools surrounded by towering cliffs, perfect for hiking and swimming.
• Nizwa Fort: An ancient fortress offering a glimpse into Oman’s history and role in regional trade.

Jordan Tourism Boom With Ancient Sites and Natural Wonders Fuel Growth in 2025

Jordan has always been a hub for history and adventure tourism, with Petra being a key attraction. In 2025, Jordan’s tourism sector is expected to see a solid rise, with continued growth in both cultural tourism and adventure travel.

Tourist Arrival Growth: Steady Influx of Visitors

Though not as high as some regional competitors, Jordan continues to benefit from its rich heritage and strategic location as a cultural crossroads.

Top Attractions: Timeless Wonders

Jordan remains one of the most historically significant destinations in the Middle East:

• Petra: The Rose City carved into red sandstone remains one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites, attracting millions of visitors annually.
• Wadi Rum: Known as the Valley of the Moon, this desert is a playground for adventurers, offering activities like jeep tours, hiking, and stargazing.
• Dead Sea: The world’s saltiest body of water is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, wellness, and unique float experiences.

Saudi Arabia Beats Qatar, UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Jordan, and Other Middle Eastern Nations in Tourism Growth, Paving the Way for Unmatched Visitor Experiences in 2025 due to its significant investments in luxury resorts, cultural heritage sites, and major global events. This growth positions Saudi Arabia as the leader in the region’s tourism boom, outpacing its neighbors and offering travelers extraordinary experiences.

The Middle East is experiencing an unprecedented tourism boom in 2025, with countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Bahrain, Oman, and Jordan leading the charge. From luxury resorts to historic sites, these nations are offering travelers unforgettable experiences and attracting millions of visitors from around the world. As the region continues to invest in infrastructure and tourism development, the future of Middle Eastern travel looks brighter than ever.