GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market Size To Worth USD 138.06 Billion by 2033 | CAGR of 7.1%

GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market Overview

Market Size in 2024: USD 70.46 Billion

Market Size in 2033: USD 138.06 Billion

Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 7.1%

According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, "GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market Size, Share, Trends and Forecast by Tourism Type, Spending Type, Age Group, Booking Method, and Country, 2025-2033", the GCC outbound travel and tourism market size was valued at USD 70.46 billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 138.06 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.1% from 2025-2033.

Growth Factors in the GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market

• Rising Disposable Income

The GCC region is thriving. Oil revenues and efforts to diversify the economy have boosted disposable incomes. As a result, residents can now spend more on international travel. This financial freedom lets families and individuals travel the world. They can explore for fun, learning, or work. In the UAE, wealthy residents often visit luxury spots like Paris or the Maldives. They look for top-notch experiences. GCC travelers are choosing premium accommodations and custom travel packages more often.

• Enhanced Air Connectivity

Major GCC airlines, such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad Airways, have expanded their networks worldwide. This expansion makes international travel easier and more convenient. These carriers have direct flights to many places. They travel to European capitals and popular destinations in Southeast Asia. This encourages GCC residents to discover new regions. Qatar Airways offers routes to more than 160 destinations. Qataris can easily visit cultural sites like London. They can also explore adventure spots like Thailand. Better connectivity cuts travel time and costs. This boosts outbound tourism, making global destinations easier for GCC travelers to reach.

• Young and Tech-Savvy Population

The GCC has a young population. More than 60% are under 30 years old. They are eager to explore the world and love technology. This group uses social media and online sites to find and book travel experiences. This boosts demand for outbound tourism. Many millennials in Saudi Arabia plan trips based on Instagram posts. These posts often highlight European landmarks or Asian cultural festivals. Their passion for unique experiences and comfort with technology increases bookings on sites like Booking.com. This group plays a vital role in growing the GCC's outbound travel market.

Key Trends in the GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Market

• Surge in Experiential Travel

GCC travelers are increasingly seeking immersive, authentic experiences over traditional sightseeing. The trend is clear. More people are joining cultural tours, trying adventure activities, and exploring food. Emirati travelers love vineyard tours in Tuscany and wildlife safaris in Kenya. They seek meaningful connections with local cultures. Younger travelers, especially millennials and Gen Z, want personal growth and unique memories. This shift shows their strong desire to explore. Travel operators are responding. They are offering curated packages. These packages focus on local traditions, eco-tourism, and hands-on activities. This approach meets the demand.

• Growth of Sustainable Tourism

Sustainability is now a priority for GCC travelers. They are choosing eco-friendly places to stay and low-impact travel options more often. This trend matches global environmental worries and the region's drive for sustainability. BahrRedeemer's Content shows that Omani travelers often choose green resorts in the Maldives. They also prefer carbon-neutral spots in Scandinavia. This choice reflects their commitment to responsible tourism. Travel agencies in the GCC are promoting sustainable travel packages. These include eco-lodges and conservation tours. They appeal to eco-friendly travelers. This also boosts the region's image as a responsible tourism market.

• Rise of Digital Nomadism

Remote work has led to digital nomadism among GCC travelers. They mix work and leisure on long trips abroad. Young professionals in the UAE and Qatar love this trend. They use flexible work arrangements to stay longer in places like Bali and Barcelona. A Dubai-based professional might work remotely from a European city for weeks. They can enjoy the local culture during their stay. Travel companies are responding to this trend. They now offer packages with co-working spaces and long-stay options. This helps GCC travelers combine work and adventure. As a result, they can travel longer and support market growth.

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GCC Outbound Travel and Tourism Industry Segmentation:

The report has segmented the market into the following categories:

Analysis by Tourism Type:

• Leisure
• Religious
• Cultural Tourism
• Medical Tourism
• Sports and Adventure
• MICE Tourism
• Others

Analysis by Spending Type:

• Air Tickets
• Hotels
• Insurance
• Others

Analysis by Age Group:

• Generation Z
• Millennials
• Generation X
• Baby Boomers

Analysis by Booking Method:

• Online
• Offline

Country Analysis:

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Qatar
• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman

Competitive Landscape:

The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined, along with the profiles of the key players.

Future Outlook

The GCC outbound travel and tourism market is set to grow. Economic prosperity, technology, and changing consumer preferences drive this expansion. GCC travelers will explore more global destinations. Their rising incomes and better air travel make this possible. They will visit cultural hubs in Europe and adventure spots in Asia. Travelers will focus on experiential and sustainable travel. They seek authentic and eco-friendly experiences. Government initiatives, like easier visa processes and promotional campaigns, will help international travel. Challenges like geopolitical instability and economic changes may force travel operators to adjust. By using digital platforms and tailored offerings, the market can thrive. GCC travelers will continue to shape global tourism trends.

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Research Methodology:

The report employs a comprehensive research methodology, combining primary and secondary data sources to validate findings. It includes market assessments, surveys, expert opinions, and data triangulation techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability.

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