United Arab Emirates Affinitises With Morocco, South Africa, Oman and More Countries Poised to Gain Most as Middle East and Africa Travel Spending Set to Rise by Nearly Forty-Eight Per Cent by 2030 – Travel And Tour World
United Arab Emirates Affinitises With Morocco, South Africa, Oman and More Countries Poised to Gain Most as Middle East and Africa Travel Spending Set to Rise by Nearly Forty-Eight Per Cent by 2030
The United Arab Emirates affinitises with Morocco, South Africa, Oman and more countries poised to gain most as Middle East and Africa travel spending is set to rise by nearly forty-eight per cent by 2030. Consequently, the latest industry outlook signals a powerful new chapter for regional tourism. Governments are investing heavily, airlines are expanding networks and destinations are upgrading visitor experiences.
Meanwhile, travellers continue prioritising meaningful journeys despite global uncertainty. Therefore, the projected surge in travel expenditure is expected to generate fresh opportunities for hotels, airlines, attractions and tourism businesses, strengthening economic growth across the Middle East and Africa.
Travel economy across the Middle East and Africa enters a new phase of sustained expansion
The Middle East and Africa are preparing for one of the most significant periods of tourism growth in recent decades, with travel spending across the region forecast to increase by 47.7% between 2025 and 2030. According to research presented byArabian Travel Market (ATM) in partnership with Euromonitor International, the increase is expected to inject more than USD 50 billion into the regional travel economy, creating substantial opportunities for destinations that have invested heavily in tourism infrastructure, aviation, hospitality and visitor experiences.
While geopolitical uncertainty has influenced travel patterns across parts of the region in recent months, industry experts believe the disruption will be temporary. As traveller confidence improves and air connectivity continues to expand, several countries are expected to emerge as the biggest beneficiaries of the next tourism growth cycle.
The countries best positioned to capitalise on this surge share common strengths: world-class airports, expanding airline networks, diverse tourism products, supportive government policies and sustained investment in travel infrastructure.
United Arab Emirates strengthens its position as the region’s tourism powerhouse
The United Arab Emirates is expected to remain one of the largest beneficiaries of rising travel expenditure across the Middle East.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi continue to attract millions of international visitors through their combination of luxury hotels, shopping, entertainment, cultural attractions and business events. The country’s position as a global a Etihad Airways connecting travellers from every continent
Large-scale investments in tourism infrastructure, digital visitor services and premium hospitality continue to reinforce the UAE’s reputation as one of the world’s leading travel destinations. As international demand strengthens, the country is likely to capture a significant share of additional regional tourism spending.
Saudi Arabia accelerates its tourism transformation through Vision 2030
Saudi Arabia is rapidly becoming one of the world’s most ambitious tourism markets.
Backed by the Vision 2030 strategy, the Kingdom is investing hundreds of billions of dollars in new tourism developments, including NEOM, the Red Sea Project, Diriyah Gate and numerous luxury coastal destinations.
Alongside religious tourism centred on Makkah and Madinah, Saudi Arabia is expanding leisure tourism, entertainment, cultural heritage and sporting events. Simplified visa policies and increasing international flight connectivity are expected to attract millions of new visitors during the remainder of the decade.
The scale of ongoing investment positions Saudi Arabia as one of the region’s fastest-growing tourism economies.
Qatar builds on global visibility and premium travel experiences
Qatar continues to strengthen its tourism sector following years of major infrastructure investment.
Doha’s Hamad International Airport remains one of the world’s leading anal connectivity across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas
The country has also expanded its luxury hotel portfolio, cruise tourism facilities and conference venues, helping diversify its visitor base beyond sporting events.
Business tourism, luxury holidays and stopover programmes are expected to play increasingly important roles as regional travel demand continues to rise.
Egypt combines heritage and coastal tourism to attract global travellers
Egypt remains one of Africa’s strongest tourism performers thanks to its unique blend of ancient history, cultural attractions and beach destinations.
The Pyramids of Giza, Luxor, Aswan and the Nile continue to attract international visitors, while Red Sea destinations such as Hurghada and Sharm El Sheikh remain among the region’s leading resort markets.
Ongoing airport upgrades, hotel investments and destination marketing campaigns are helping Egypt strengthen its competitive position within both the Middle East and African tourism landscape.
As global travel demand expands, Egypt is expected to see increasing visitor numbers across leisure, cultural and cruise tourism.
Morocco benefits from growing European travel demand
Morocco continues to emerge as one of North Africa’s most dynamic tourism destinations.
Cities including Marrakech, Casablanca, Fez and Rabat attract visitors seeking history, architecture, cuisine and cultural experiences, while coastal resorts and mountain destinations continue expanding their appeal.
The country’s close proximity to Europe, improving airline connectivity and growing investment in hospitality infrastructure are expected to support sustained tourism growth.
Morocco’s diverse tourism offering allows it to appeal to luxury travellers, cultural explorers, adventure tourists and digital nomads alike.
South Africa leverages diverse tourism experiences
South Africa remains one of Africa’s most diversified tourism destinations.
International visitors continue to be drawn by wildlife safaris, wine tourism, scenic landscapes, adventure activities and vibrant cities including Cape Town and Johannesburg.
The country’s well-developed hospitality industry and extensive tourism infrastructure provide a solid foundation for future growth.
As long-haul travel continues recovering, South Africa is expected to benefit from increasing demand across both leisure and premium travel segments.
Oman expands its reputation for sustainable and luxury tourism
Oman has steadily positioned itself as a destination offering authentic experiences, natural landscapes and high-end hospitality.
The country’s mountains, deserts, coastline and traditional heritage appeal to travellers seeking alternatives to larger regional destinations.
Government investment in tourism diversification, sustainable development and luxury resorts is expected to strengthen Oman’s position within the Gulf tourism market.
Improved air connectivity and growing international awareness will likely contribute to higher visitor spending over the coming years.
Kenya strengthens its appeal through wildlife and business tourism
Kenya continues to combine internationally renowned safari experiences with an expanding meetings and conference sector.
The Maasai Mara National Reserve, Amboseli National Park and coastal destinations remain key attractions for international visitors, while Nairobi continues developing as an important regional business hub.
Growing airline connectivity, investment in hospitality and government efforts to diversify tourism products are expected to support long-term industry growth.
Kenya’s balanced mix of leisure and corporate travel provides resilience against changing market conditions.
Bahrain focuses on business events and regional travel
Although smaller than many neighbouring destinations, Bahrain continues expanding its tourism industry through business events, cultural attractions and regional leisure travel.
Formula One, exhibitions, shopping and heritage tourism remain important visitor drivers, while the country’s strategic location within the Gulf supports short-haul travel from neighbouring markets.
Continued investment in hospitality and convention facilities is expected to strengthen Bahrain’s tourism economy during the forecast period.
Rwanda emerges as Africa’s premium eco-tourism destination
Rwanda has successfully positioned itself as one of Africa’s leading destinations for sustainable and high-value tourism.
Mountain gorilla trekking remains the country’s flagship attraction, attracting visitors willing to pay premium prices for conservation-focused experiences.
Kigali has also developed into a recognised meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination, supported by modern convention facilities and improved international air services.
The country’s emphasis on environmental sustainability and premium visitor experiences is expected to drive continued tourism revenue growth.
Regional tourism economy set for a major expansion despite global uncertainty
The travel and tourism industry across the Middle East and Africa is expected to experience one of its strongest growth periods over the next five years, with travel spending forecast to increase by 47.7% between 2025 and 2030. According to new research presented by Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in partnership with Euromonitor International, the expansion will contribute more than USD 50 billion to the regional travel economy, underlining the sector’s resilience despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and broader global uncertainty.
The findings paint an optimistic picture for one of the world’s fastest-growing tourism regions. While short-term disruptions have affected traveller confidence in some destinations, industry analysts believe the long-term outlook remains exceptionally positive as investment, infrastructure development and technological innovation continue to reshape travel.
Tourism demand remains resilient despite geopolitical challenges
The latest research suggests that geopolitical events have temporarily influenced travel patterns across parts of the Middle East. Aexperienced fluctuations in recent months as regional tensions affected international travel decisions
However, industry experts emphasise that these disruptions are unlikely to alter the long-term trajectory of tourism growth.
According to the research, travellers continue to prioritise holidays and experiences even during periods of economic uncertainty. Rather than abandoning travel altogether, consumers are adjusting their behaviour by choosing destinations perceived as stable, booking closer to departure dates and seeking greater flexibility in travel arrangements.
This evolution in consumer behaviour reflects a more adaptable travel market rather than a weakened one.
Euromonitor forecasts remarkable growth through 2030
Euromonitor International’s latest report, Travel in an Age of Poly-Crisis, highlights that travel spending throughout the Middle East and Africa is expected to rise by almost half over the next five years.
The projected 47.7% increase between 2025 and 2030 represents more than USD 50 billion in additional travel expenditure across the region, creating significant opportunities for governments, tourism boards, airlines, hotels, attractions and travel technology providers.
The report also notes that worldwide travel expenditure has now surpassed pre-pandemic levels. In many economies, tourism spending is expanding at a faster rate than national GDP, demonstrating that travel remains one of consumers’ highest priorities despite inflation, higher living costs and changing economic conditions.
The findings reinforce the industry’s recovery from the pandemic while highlighting the structural strength of global travel demand.
Experiences continue to drive modern travel decisions
One of the most significant conclusions from the research is the continued shift towards experience-led tourism.
Modern travellers are increasingly allocating larger portions of their budgets to memorable experiences rather than simply purchasing accommodation or transportation. Authentic cultural encounters, wellness retreats, culinary tourism, adventure holidays and personalised itineraries are becoming central motivations for travel.
Consumers are placing greater emphasis on meaningful journeys that offer emotional value, personal enrichment and unique local experiences.
This transformation is encouraging destinations and tourism businesses to redesign their products around immersive experiences rather than traditional sightseeing alone.
Regional travel gains momentum as consumer preferences evolve
The report also indicates that regional travel continues to strengthen across multiple markets.
Travellers are increasingly choosing destinations closer to home while maintaining a strong appetite for international travel where connectivity allows. Short-haul travel often provides greater flexibility, lower costs and reduced uncertainty, making it an attractive option during periods of geopolitical or economic instability.
Rather than signalling reduced demand, this trend reflects changing consumer priorities and a more diversified global tourism landscape.
Destinations with excellent transport links, simplified visa policies and reliable tourism infrastructure are expected to benefit most from this shift.
Digital transformation becomes central to tourism growth
Technology continues to reshape nearly every stage of the travel journey.
According to Euromonitor International, artificial intelligence is becoming one of the industry’s most influential competitive advantages. AI-powered customer support, predictive travel assistance, personalised recommendations and seamless digital booking experiences are increasingly shaping traveller expectations.
Tourism businesses are also investing heavily in digital platforms that improve operational efficiency while enhancing customer satisfaction.
Hotels, airlines and travel companies are using advanced analytics to forecast demand, optimise pricing and deliver tailored services that reflect individual traveller preferences.
Hyper-personalisation is emerging as a defining feature of modern tourism, allowing businesses to create customised experiences that strengthen customer loyalty.
Hospitality sector expected to recover steadily
Research from STR, Arabian Travel Market’s hospitality research partner, suggests that hotel markets across the Middle East are positioned for a gradual but sustained recovery.
Performance is expected to strengthen as traveller confidence improves, international air connectivity expands and destination marketing campaigns regain momentum.
Markets supported by diversified visitor demand, strong tourism infrastructure and long-term government investment are forecast to recover more quickly than destinations relying on narrower visitor segments.
Luxury hospitality, business travel and leisure tourism are all expected to contribute to this recovery as airlines continue restoring capacity and destinations attract increasing numbers of international visitors.
Investment continues to strengthen the tourism ecosystem
Governments across the Middle East have invested billions of dollars in tourism infrastructure over recent years.
New airports, expanded airline networks, world-class hotels, entertainment districts, cultural attractions and sustainable tourism initiatives have significantly enhanced the region’s global competitiveness.
These investments are expected to support long-term tourism growth while helping destinations recover more rapidly from temporary disruptions.
Industry analysts believe destinations with established tourism ecosystems and strong international connectivity will remain among the world’s fastest-growing travel markets throughout the remainder of the decade.
Arabian Travel Market highlights future industry priorities
The research findings closely align with the theme selected for Arabian Travel Market 2026: Travel 2040: Driving New Frontiers Through Innovation and Technology.
The event will provide a platform for global tourism leaders, policymakers, airlines, hotel operators, technology companies and destination marketing organisations to examine how innovation is reshaping the future of travel.
Discussions are expected to focus on resilience, digital transformation, sustainability, changing consumer expectations and emerging business opportunities across international tourism.
Industry experts will also explore how artificial intelligence, automation and data-driven decision-making are redefining customer experiences while improving operational performance across the travel sector.
Traveller confidence remains the industry’s strongest asset
Although uncertainty continues to influence parts of the global travel market, the latest research suggests that consumer confidence in travel has not disappeared.
Instead, travellers are making more informed choices, seeking flexibility and prioritising value without sacrificing meaningful experiences.
Industry leaders view this resilience as one of tourism’s greatest strengths.
Danielle Curtis, Regional Portfolio Director – UAE at RX Global, said periods of uncertainty often accelerate innovation rather than hinder growth. She noted that today’s travel industry is adapting faster than many expected, with destinations becoming increasingly agile while technology enables businesses to strengthen resilience.
She added that the latest research demonstrates traveller confidence has evolved rather than declined, with consumers continuing to prioritise travel even as the industry adapts to changing global conditions.
Long-term outlook remains firmly positive
The combined findings from Euromonitor International and STR reinforce a clear message for the global tourism industry: while short-term geopolitical events may temporarily influence travel patterns, the long-term outlook remains exceptionally strong.
Continued investment, expanding digital capabilities, improving air connectivity and the growing demand for personalised experiences are expected to underpin sustained tourism growth across the Middle East and Africa throughout the remainder of the decade.
With travel spending projected to rise by nearly 48% by 2030 and global tourism demand continuing to outpace economic growth in many regions, the industry appears well positioned to enter its next phase of expansion, driven by innovation, resilience and travellers’ enduring desire to explore the world.
Technology and innovation will shape the next chapter of tourism growth
Across all ten countries, digital transformation is becoming increasingly important.
Artificial intelligence, personalised travel planning, contactless services, predictive customer support and data-driven hospitality strategies are helping destinations enhance visitor experiences while improving operational efficiency.
Travellers increasingly expect seamless digital journeys from booking to departure, encouraging governments and tourism businesses to accelerate investment in smart tourism technologies.
Innovation is no longer an optional advantage but a fundamental requirement for maintaining competitiveness in the global tourism market.
A resilient future for Middle East and African tourism
The projected rise in travel spending reflects far more than a recovery from recent disruptions. It signals a structural shift in how travellers prioritise experiences, explore new destinations and embrace technology throughout their journeys.
The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, Morocco, South Africa, Oman, Kenya, Bahrain and Rwanda each bring distinct strengths to the global tourism landscape. Together, they represent the destinations best positioned to capture a substantial share of the projected USD 50 billion increase in travel spending across the Middle East and Africa by 2030.
As governments continue investing in infrastructure, airlines expand international connectivity and travellers seek richer, more meaningful experiences, these countries are expected to lead the region into its next era of sustainable tourism growth, reinforcing the Middle East and Africa as two of the world’s most dynamic travel markets.
The primary cause behind this projected growth is sustained investment in tourism infrastructure, stronger air connectivity, digital innovation and rising demand for experience-led travel. The answer lies in destinations creating safer, smarter and more personalised visitor experiences while expanding international accessibility. The reason these countries are expected to benefit the most is their diversified tourism economies, established hospitality sectors and long-term government strategies that support sustainable growth. As traveller confidence gradually improves, these competitive advantages are likely to attract higher visitor spending, increase international arrivals and deliver stronger tourism revenues throughout the Middle East and Africa before the end of the decade.
The projected rise in Middle East and Africa travel spending by nearly forty-eight per cent by 2030 represents far more than a positive economic forecast. It reflects the growing resilience of the global tourism industry and the ability of destinations to adapt to changing traveller expectations. The United Arab Emirates, Morocco, South Africa, Oman and more countries are entering this growth phase with significant competitive advantages, including world-class airports, expanding airline connectivity, modern hospitality infrastructure and diversified tourism offerings.
Furthermore, governments across the region continue investing in landmark tourism developments, sustainable projects and digital transformation, creating stronger foundations for long-term visitor growth. At the same time, travellers are increasingly seeking authentic experiences, flexible itineraries and seamless digital services, encouraging destinations to innovate faster than ever before.
Although geopolitical uncertainty and economic pressures remain challenges, industry research indicates that demand for travel continues to evolve rather than decline. Consumers are adjusting their travel choices instead of abandoning holidays altogether, supporting steady recovery across a
As investment accelerates and international confidence strengthens, the countries highlighted in this outlook are expected to capture a substantial share of the additional tourism expenditure forecast for the region. Their ability to combine infrastructure, innovation, cultural experiences and global accessibility places them in a strong position to benefit from the next wave of international tourism.
Ultimately, the forecast demonstrates that the future of tourism across the Middle East and Africa remains firmly growth-oriented. With strategic planning, continued investment and a relentless focus on enhancing the visitor experience, the region is well positioned to transform rising travel demand into sustained economic prosperity, stronger global competitiveness and long-term success for its tourism industry.
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