Arabian Gulf states aim to boost tourism with new integrated strategy

With Arabian Gulf nations experiencing a significant rise in outbound tourism, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is aiming to implement a common tourism strategy to strengthen cooperation among its member states.

According to a new report by Travel & Tourism Intelligence Centre (TTIC), GCC nationals made over 37 million outbound trips in 2013.

Saudi Arabia nationals made the most trips - with an increase from 18 million in 2012 to 21 million, and forecasts that this number will reach over 33 million by 2018. As the entire GCC will become an increasingly important economic and trading hub, these countries will also boost their outbound expenditure, which is set to double by 2018 reaching over US$100 billion.

TTIC analyst Gillian Kennedy explains “although political unrest brought about by the Arab Spring and the emergence of Islamic State (IS) has caused regional uncertainty, GCC tourists continue travelling within the Gulf states mainly for luxury or religious purposes, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE being the most popular destinations.”

 With the GCC Council of Tourism Cooperation, there is growing potential for the creation of an integrated regional strategy to strengthen cooperation among the GCC states.

A preparatory meeting for GCC tour operators, followed by the meeting of tourism ministers, will aim to pave the way for further efforts to develop GCC tourism sectors on all levels.

While travel among the GCC states is already visa-free, the GCC is planning to introduce a Schengen-style unified visa for tourists and businessmen from 35 foreign and Arab countries. As a result, nationals from these countries will be able to visit the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and Oman under a single visa once the system is finalised and implemented by 2015.

Although political unrest has caused regional uncertainty, GCC nationals usually travel within the Gulf states for luxury and religious reasons, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE being the most popular destinations.

TTIC is a leading provider of online data, analysis and advisory services on key sectors within the tourism industry. It provides integrated information services covering risk assessments, forecasts, industry analysis, market intelligence, news and commentary related to hotels, car rentals, airlines and travel intermediaries.

For more information go to www.tourism-ic.com.

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