Regional Tourism Growth Outpaces Global Average
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has reported that the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector expanded at 5.3% in 2025, surpassing the global average of 4.1%. This trend highlights the region’s position as a major player in the global tourism market. The WTTC’s Economic Impact Research (EIR) shows that the Middle East is performing strongly across several key indicators, including international visitor spending, domestic travel, and business travel.
In 2025, the sector contributed $385.8 billion to the region’s GDP and supported 7.1 million jobs. International visitor spending increased by 5.2%, which is higher than the global average of 3.2%. These figures reflect both strong demand for travel to the region and enhanced global connectivity.
Saudi Arabia’s Role in Regional Momentum
Saudi Arabia remains central to the Middle East’s tourism growth. The Kingdom accounted for $178 billion in GDP from travel and tourism, representing 46% of the region’s total sector output. Saudi Arabia’s travel and tourism GDP grew by 7.4% in 2025, nearly twice the global sector growth rate and about 40% higher than the Middle East’s regional average.
International visitor spending in Saudi Arabia rose by 8.2%, significantly above the global average. Business travel spending in the Kingdom increased by over 55%, underscoring the Kingdom’s growing status as a hub for business, events, and investment. These figures suggest that Saudi Arabia is not only attracting more leisure tourists but is also becoming a focal point for business travel in the region.
Performance of Other Regional Markets
Other Middle Eastern markets also showed notable growth. The United Arab Emirates’ travel and tourism sector reached $68.5 billion in GDP in 2025, with international visitor spending of $56.9 billion. Jordan experienced a 5.5% growth in travel and tourism GDP, with international visitor spending reaching $8.5 billion. Oman also recorded a 5.5% increase in sector GDP and $4.0 billion in international visitor spending. These numbers indicate continued momentum across key Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and regional markets.
Business Travel as a Growth Driver
Across the Middle East, business travel is a significant contributor to sector growth. Business travel spending increased by 23% in 2025, making it one of the fastest-growing segments. The rise in business travel is attributed to increased demand for in-person meetings and the region’s expanding role in hosting major international events, conferences, and investment activities.
Outlook and Long-Term Strategies
Despite recent regional challenges, the Middle East’s travel and tourism sector has demonstrated resilience. The WTTC suggests that continued investment in infrastructure, connectivity, and destination development will be essential for maintaining growth. Emphasizing high-value travel and business tourism, as well as strengthening public-private collaboration, are identified as key strategies for increasing visitor spending, job creation, and long-term economic growth.
The WTTC’s research concludes that the Middle East, led by Saudi Arabia, is positioned to maintain its upward trajectory in travel and tourism by focusing on sustainable investment and strategic development. The sector is expected to remain a significant driver of economic growth and international connectivity across the region.
