A Strategic Examination of Outbound Tourism in GCC Countries from 2024 to 2034

Sales of outbound tourism in GCC countries are estimated to accelerate at a moderate CAGR of 7.8% between 2024 and 2034. The outbound tourism industry in GCC countries is set to generate a revenue of US$ 75,126.10 million in 2024 and is likely to produce revenue worth US$ 158,880.1 million by 2034.

Increasing consumer spending on overseas travel, ascending foreign tourist departures, and boosting online flight and travel bookings are the primary drivers expected to advance the GCC outbound tourism industry growth from 2024 to 2034.

Attributes Details
Demand Analysis (2024) US$ 75,126.10 million
Demand Forecast (2034) US$ 158,880.1 million
CAGR Estimation (2024 to 2034) 7.8%

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Social Media, Education, and Business Ventures Propel the GCC Outbound Tourism Sector

Individuals and families in GCC countries have more money to spend on travel and tourism due to the rising disposable income of citizens. Their increased cash allows them to travel to other countries, boosting the GCC outbound tourism sales growth.

Travelers' awareness of various places has increased due to globalization and better access to information via the Internet and social media platforms. This has increased the interest and desire of GCC residents to learn about and experience other cultures. This escalates the adoption of outbound tourism in GCC.

One of the main factors compelling outbound tourism is an enthusiasm for education and business opportunities abroad. Residents of the GCC frequently travel for networking events, conferences, business meetings, and educational pursuits.

Stumbling Blocks to the GCC Outbound Tourism Industry

When GCC citizens consider traveling abroad, rigorous visa regulations and restrictions the target nations impose restrain them. Burdensome visa requirements inhibit travelers from visiting particular countries, impeding the GCC outbound tourism sector growth.

A key barrier is likely to be the cultural, language, and lifestyle differences between the Gulf Cooperation Council countries and other possible travel destinations. A lack of familiarity with regional languages and cultures hampers people from traveling to some foreign places, harming the outbound tourism industry expansion in GCC countries.

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Sudip Saha

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Historical GCC Outbound Tourism Industry Outlook (From 2019 to 2023) vs. Demand Forecast (From 2024 to 2034)

A significant increase in outbound tourism has been observed in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries as a result of increased globalization, rising disposable incomes, and a growing desire among GCC citizens for overseas travel experiences. The GCC outbound tourism sector developed moderately between 2019 and 2023, with a CAGR increase in outbound travel of about 5.6% and an increase in expenditure overseas in line with that development.

GCC countries make for a sizeable portion of the global outbound travel industry, with popular destinations for tourists from the area, including Southeast Asia, Europe, and the United States. Factors such as easier access to flights, easier processing of visas, and marketing campaigns by travel boards supported the expansion.

Attributes Details
Demand Analysis (2019) US$ 55,776.9 million
Demand Analysis (2023) US$ 69,360.1 million
CAGR Estimation (2019 to 2023) 5.6%

The demand forecast for outbound tourism in GCC countries from 2024 to 2034 is optimistic with several advancing trends and factors. The GCC's efforts to diversify its economy, along with continuous improvements in tourist attractions and infrastructure, is likely to increase demand for outbound travel.

From 2024 to 2034, technology breakthroughs, evolving consumer tastes, and geopolitical events are going to reshape the GCC outbound tourism sector. Emerging trends, including experiential tourism, environmental travel, and the integration of digital platforms, modify traveler tastes.

The outbound tourism vendors in GCC need to stay aware of changing consumer demographics and industry conditions to take advantage of emerging opportunities and preserve a sustainable position. This is especially crucial as the GCC outbound tourism industry is expected to escalate.

Comparative View of Adjacent Outbound Tourism in Key Markets

The table below provides a comparative overview of outbound tourism and their different strategies in three important regions that are GCC, Russia, and Germany. Evidently, the trends for outbound tourism reveals an upward trend in GCC countries.

Industry Analysis of Outbound Tourism in GCC:

Attributes Industry Analysis of Outbound Tourism in GCC
CAGR between 2024 to 2034 7.8%
Industry Size in 2024 US$ 75,126.10 million
Key Trends
  • Travel convenience and favorable visa regulations support outbound tourism industry expansion in GCC.
  • Outbound tourism is encouraged through cultural exchange programs and academic opportunities.
  • The outbound tourism adoption in GCC is growing as people become increasingly mindful of and interested in unique travel experiences.
Key Challenge
  • High travel expenses impede the demand for outbound tourism in GCC.

Industry Analysis of Outbound Tourism in Russia:

Attributes Industry Analysis of Outbound Tourism in Russia
CAGR between 2024 to 2034 9.4%
Industry Size in 2024 US$ 32,435.45 million
Key Trends
  • Agreements that eliminate visa requirements and loosen access restrictions foster Russia’s outbound tourism industry expansion.
  • Outbound travel in Russia is encouraged by educational tourism initiatives and language-learning possibilities.
  • A growing desire inspires the Russian outbound tourism sector in travel and cultural exchange.
Key Challenge
  • Russian outbound tourism options are hampered by geopolitical chaos and international sanctions.

Industry Analysis of Outbound Tourism in Germany:

Attributes Industry Analysis of Outbound Tourism in Germany
CAGR between 2024 to 2034 9.7%
Industry Size in 2024 US$ 114,644.8 million
Key Trends
  • Individuals in Germany are experiencing easier access to outbound tourism because of the rise of low-cost airlines and vacation packages.
  • Historical and cultural ties assist in exchanging outbound tourism between Germany and other nations.
Key Challenge
  • Germany’s outbound tourism encounters obstacles due to regional cultural variations and language constraints.

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Category-wise Insights

Perceptive trends emerge from the segmented research of the GCC outbound tourism industry. The prevalent category of tourist type is the domestic segment, indicating a strong preference for visiting nearby locations. The 26 to 35-year-old segment is the most prevalent among the age group category, suggesting that a considerable proportion of the population travels outside their country.

The data mentioned illustrates how crucial it is to accommodate the tastes and requirements of both domestic tourists and the younger generation in the GCC. The GCC outbound tourism providers comprehend these dynamics to design customized strategies and services that appeal to the various segments.

Travel around the GCC Traveler's Global Travel Preferences

Segment Domestic
Share (2024) 57.3%

Domestic travel leads the GCC's outbound tourism sector, demonstrating the citizens' strong preference for local travel experiences. Even though it is sizable, the international segment trails behind the domestic segment, suggesting that there is a strong desire to go to places inside the GCC.

Companies ought to recognize the potential for growth in the international segment despite its secondary status and take advantage of global travel trends and preferences. A mix of factors, including cultural affinity, ease of access, and the appeal of a wide range of attractions, stimulates the popularity of domestic travel in the GCC countries.

Digital Footprints Engaging the 26-35 Years Segment in the Outbound Tourism Sector in GCC

Segment 26-35 Years
Share (2024) 32.0%

Due to their higher disposable income and strong desire for immersive travel, people in the 26–35 age range account for most GCC outbound tourists. The group favors adventurous and culturally engaging experiences, boosting travel industry revenue.

The 26–35 age group is socially and technologically aware, and as such, they quickly adapt and spread travel trends, impacting others in their network. Increasing job security and adaptability at work permits people in the 26–35 age range to travel to many foreign locations.

Competitive Landscape

Many significant outbound tourism vendors have established reputations as industry leaders in meeting the travel requirements of GCC citizens in the fiercely competitive industry.

Tour packages, eco-friendly tours, expedition planning, and destination management services are just a few of the travel services prominent outbound tourism providers in GCC countries provide. Along with destination selection, the GCC's outbound tourism companies compete on experience quality, customer support, and environmentally friendly operations.

G Adventures concentrates on immersive and daring experiences, whereas Big Five Tours & Expeditions Inc. is notable for its upscale offers. While Greenloons LLC focuses on environmentally responsible travel, Praxis Holidays LLP offers bespoke travel services.

Responsible Travel is notable for its eco-friendly travel programs, whereas Steppes Travel focuses on travel to less-traveled areas. Farhat Tours & Transfers S.P.C. and Royal Arabian Destination Management specialize in providing exhaustive destination management services.

These outbound tourism providers constantly devise new ideas to stay competitive and cater to passengers' changing tastes in the face of increasing demand for outbound travel from the GCC region. They provide various opportunities for GCC people to travel, so they are vital in forming the outbound tourism environment.

Developments Observed in the Outbound Tourism Sector in GCC Countries

  • Big Five Tours & Expeditions announced the launch of a sustainable travel website, Galapagos.com. The website is named after the Galapagos Islands, home to the rarest species on Earth and the birthplace of Darwin’s theory of evolution.
  • The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) announced that in 2025, all of its member states will have a single tourist visa. This project aligns with the GCC 2030 tourism strategy, which aims to boost tourism by 7% annually and solidify the region's standing as a major travel destination worldwide.
  • The 'Come See Things Differently' campaign by VisitBritain, aimed at tourists from the Gulf Cooperation Council, showcases the variety of experiences that Britain has to offer, such as dynamic metropolitan life, countryside escapes, and coastal excursions. The campaign uses digital billboards, social media, and movie theaters to increase tourism in the area. Travel has become easier because of the implementation of the Electronic Travel Authorization system.

Pivotal GCC Outbound Tourism Vendors

  • Big Five Tours & Expeditions Inc.
  • G Adventures, Praxis Holidays LLP
  • Greenloons LLC
  • Responsible Travel
  • Steppes Travel
  • Farhat Tours & Transfers S.P.C.
  • Royal Arabian Destination Management

Scope of the Report

Attribute Details
Estimated Valuation (2024) US$ 75,126.10 million
Projected Valuation (2034) US$ 158,880.1 million
Anticipated CAGR (2024 to 2034) 7.8%
Historical Analysis of Outbound Tourism in GCC 2019 to 2023
Demand Forecast for Outbound Tourism in GCC 2024 to 2034
Quantitative Units Revenue in US$ million and CAGR from 2024 to 2034
Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Company Ranking, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Trends and Pricing Analysis
Key Countries Analyzed while Studying Opportunities in Outbound Tourism in GCC Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman
Key Companies Profiled Big Five Tours & Expeditions Inc.; G Adventures, Praxis Holidays LLP; Greenloons LLC; Responsible Travel; Steppes Travel; Farhat Tours & Transfers S.P.C.; Royal Arabian Destination Management

Key Segments

By Tourist Type:

  • Domestic
  • International

By Age Distribution:

  • Under 18 years
  • 18-25 years
  • 26-35 years
  • 36-45 years
  • 46-55 years
  • Above 55 years

By Tourism Type:

  • Holiday
  • VFR (Visit Friends and Relatives)
  • Business
  • Others

By Traveler Type:

  • Independent Traveller
  • Tour Group
  • Package Traveller

By Country:

  • Saudi Arabia
  • United Arab Emirates (UAE)
  • Qatar
  • Bahrain
  • Kuwait
  • Oman

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Current Industry Valuation of Outbound Tourism in GCC Countries?

The outbound travel and tourism sector in GCC countries is estimated to secure a valuation US$ 75,126.10 million in 2024.

How Big Can the GCC Outbound Tourism Sector Be by 2034?

The GCC outbound travel and tourism industry is projected to surpass US$ 158,880.1 million by 2034.

What is the Growth Opportunity of the Outbound Tourism Industry in GCC Countries?

The outbound travel and tourism sector in GCC is anticipated to thrive at a 7.8% CAGR from 2024 to 2034.

What Was the Historical Outlook of The GCC Outbound Tourism Industry?

Between 2019 and 2023, the GCC outbound travel and tourism industry evolved at a moderate CAGR of 5.6%.

Which Tourist Type Category to Lead in the Outbound Tourism Industry in GCC?

The domestic sector is forecasted to possess a share of 57.3% in 2024.

Which Age Group Segment to Control the GCC Outbound Tourism Industry?

A 32.0% industry share is envisioned for the 26-35 years sector in 2024.

Table of Content
1. Executive Summary

    1.1. Market Outlook

    1.2. Demand-side Trends

    1.3. Supply-side Trends

    1.4. Technology Roadmap Analysis

    1.5. Analysis and Recommendations

2. Market Overview

    2.1. Market Coverage / Taxonomy

    2.2. Market Definition / Scope / Limitations

3. Market Background

    3.1. Market Dynamics

        3.1.1. Drivers

        3.1.2. Restraints

        3.1.3. Opportunity

        3.1.4. Trends

    3.2. Scenario Forecast

        3.2.1. Demand in Optimistic Scenario

        3.2.2. Demand in Likely Scenario

        3.2.3. Demand in Conservative Scenario

    3.3. Opportunity Map Analysis

    3.4. Investment Feasibility Matrix

    3.5. PESTLE and Porter’s Analysis

    3.6. Regulatory Landscape

        3.6.1. By Key Regions

        3.6.2. By Key Countries

    3.7. Regional Parent Market Outlook

4. Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast, 2024 to 2034

    4.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis, 2019 to 2023

    4.2. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) Projections, 2024 to 2034

        4.2.1. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis

        4.2.2. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis

5. Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Tourism Type

    5.1. Introduction / Key Findings

    5.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis By Tourism Type, 2019 to 2023

    5.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis and Forecast By Tourism Type, 2024 to 2034

        5.3.1. Holiday Tourism

        5.3.2. VFR (Visit Friends & Relatives) Tourism

        5.3.3. Business Tourism

        5.3.4. Others

    5.4. Y-o-Y Growth Trend A nalysis By Tourism Type, 2019 to 2023

    5.5. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By Tourism Type, 2024 to 2034

6. Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Traveler Type

    6.1. Introduction / Key Findings

    6.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis By Traveler Type, 2019 to 2023

    6.3. Current and Future Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis and Forecast By Traveler Type, 2024 to 2034

        6.3.1. Independent Traveller

        6.3.2. Tour Group

        6.3.3. Package Traveller

    6.4. Y-o-Y Growth Trend Analysis By Traveler Type, 2019 to 2023

    6.5. Absolute $ Opportunity Analysis By Traveler Type, 2024 to 2034

7. Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country

    7.1. Introduction

    7.2. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis By Country, 2019 to 2023

    7.3. Current Market Size Value (US$ Million) Analysis and Forecast By Country, 2024 to 2034

        7.3.1. KSA

        7.3.2. UAE

        7.3.3. Qatar

        7.3.4. Oman

        7.3.5. Rest of GCC

    7.4. Market Attractiveness Analysis By Country

8. KSA Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region

    8.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Trend Analysis By Market Taxonomy, 2019 to 2023

    8.2. Market Size Value (US$ Million) Forecast By Market Taxonomy, 2024 to 2034

        8.2.1. By Region

        8.2.2. By Tourism Type

        8.2.3. By Traveler Type

    8.3. Market Attractiveness Analysis

        8.3.1. By Region

        8.3.2. By Tourism Type

        8.3.3. By Traveler Type

    8.4. Key Takeaways

9. UAE Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region

    9.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Trend Analysis By Market Taxonomy, 2019 to 2023

    9.2. Market Size Value (US$ Million) Forecast By Market Taxonomy, 2024 to 2034

        9.2.1. By Region

        9.2.2. By Tourism Type

        9.2.3. By Traveler Type

    9.3. Market Attractiveness Analysis

        9.3.1. By Region

        9.3.2. By Tourism Type

        9.3.3. By Traveler Type

    9.4. Key Takeaways

10. Qatar Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region

    10.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Trend Analysis By Market Taxonomy, 2019 to 2023

    10.2. Market Size Value (US$ Million) Forecast By Market Taxonomy, 2024 to 2034

        10.2.1. By Region

        10.2.2. By Tourism Type

        10.2.3. By Traveler Type

    10.3. Market Attractiveness Analysis

        10.3.1. By Region

        10.3.2. By Tourism Type

        10.3.3. By Traveler Type

    10.4. Key Takeaways

11. Oman Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Region

    11.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Trend Analysis By Market Taxonomy, 2019 to 2023

    11.2. Market Size Value (US$ Million) Forecast By Market Taxonomy, 2024 to 2034

        11.2.1. By Region

        11.2.2. By Tourism Type

        11.2.3. By Traveler Type

    11.3. Market Attractiveness Analysis

        11.3.1. By Region

        11.3.2. By Tourism Type

        11.3.3. By Traveler Type

    11.4. Key Takeaways

12. Market Analysis 2019 to 2023 and Forecast 2024 to 2034, By Country

    12.1. Historical Market Size Value (US$ Million) Trend Analysis By Market Taxonomy, 2019 to 2023

    12.2. Market Size Value (US$ Million) Forecast By Market Taxonomy, 2024 to 2034

        12.2.1. By Country

        12.2.2. By Tourism Type

        12.2.3. By Traveler Type

    12.3. Market Attractiveness Analysis

        12.3.1. By Country

        12.3.2. By Tourism Type

        12.3.3. By Traveler Type

    12.4. Key Takeaways

13. Market Structure Analysis

    13.1. Competition Dashboard

    13.2. Competition Benchmarking

    13.3. Market Share Analysis of Top Players

        13.3.1. By Regional

        13.3.2. By Tourism Type

        13.3.3. By Traveler Type

14. Competition Analysis

    14.1. Competition Deep Dive

        14.1.1. Big Five Tours & Expeditions Inc.

            14.1.1.1. Overview

            14.1.1.2. Product Portfolio

            14.1.1.3. Profitability by Market Segments

            14.1.1.4. Sales Footprint

            14.1.1.5. Strategy Overview

                14.1.1.5.1. Marketing Strategy

        14.1.2. G Adventures, Praxis Holidays LLP

            14.1.2.1. Overview

            14.1.2.2. Product Portfolio

            14.1.2.3. Profitability by Market Segments

            14.1.2.4. Sales Footprint

            14.1.2.5. Strategy Overview

                14.1.2.5.1. Marketing Strategy

        14.1.3. Greenloons LLC

            14.1.3.1. Overview

            14.1.3.2. Product Portfolio

            14.1.3.3. Profitability by Market Segments

            14.1.3.4. Sales Footprint

            14.1.3.5. Strategy Overview

                14.1.3.5.1. Marketing Strategy

        14.1.4. Responsible Travel

            14.1.4.1. Overview

            14.1.4.2. Product Portfolio

            14.1.4.3. Profitability by Market Segments

            14.1.4.4. Sales Footprint

            14.1.4.5. Strategy Overview

                14.1.4.5.1. Marketing Strategy

        14.1.5. Steppes Travel

            14.1.5.1. Overview

            14.1.5.2. Product Portfolio

            14.1.5.3. Profitability by Market Segments

            14.1.5.4. Sales Footprint

            14.1.5.5. Strategy Overview

                14.1.5.5.1. Marketing Strategy

        14.1.6. Farhat Tours & Transfers S.P.C.

            14.1.6.1. Overview

            14.1.6.2. Product Portfolio

            14.1.6.3. Profitability by Market Segments

            14.1.6.4. Sales Footprint

            14.1.6.5. Strategy Overview

                14.1.6.5.1. Marketing Strategy

        14.1.7. Royal Arabian Destination Management

            14.1.7.1. Overview

            14.1.7.2. Product Portfolio

            14.1.7.3. Profitability by Market Segments

            14.1.7.4. Sales Footprint

            14.1.7.5. Strategy Overview

                14.1.7.5.1. Marketing Strategy

15. Assumptions & Acronyms Used

16. Research Methodology
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