Monday, September 23, 2024 The Middle East is undergoing a transformative era, with its travel and tourism sectors witnessing remarkable growth, as highlighted in a recent Collinson International report. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) are emerging as key players in this dynamic market, showcasing impressive expansion. The UAE, ranked sixth globally for international tourism revenue, continues to establish itself as a premier destination for global travelers.
Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative is driving its tourism ambitions forward with groundbreaking projects like AlUla and the Red Sea Project, solidifying its position as a top tourism hub. The region’s travel and tourism industry grew by over 25% in 2023, reaching nearly $460 billion. Saudi Arabia alone set new records with a 32% growth rate, contributing SAR 444.
3 billion and accounting for 11.5% of its GDP. Surpassing its 2030 target, the Kingdom welcomed over 100 million visitors in 2023, and the momentum is expected to continue into 2024.
Enhancing the Travel Experience As tourist numbers surge, it’s crucial to elevate the airport experience to meet diverse traveler needs. The report reveals that nearly half of UAE consumers consider travel-related perks, such as airport lounge access, as decisive factors when choosing payment cards. Many prefer bringing a guest along to enjoy amenities like dining, quiet spaces, and even sleeping pods available at major airports such as Dubai International (DXB).
Emerging Traveler Preferences A YouGov study indicates that 61% of UAE and 62% of KSA residents seek hyper-personalized and exclusive travel experiences, emphasizing the demand for tailored rewards and benefits. The trend of ‘slow holidays’ is also on the rise, with 82% of UAE and 77% of KSA travelers opting to stay longer in one place to fully experience the local culture. Solo travel is gaining popularity, with 75% of UAE residents having taken a solo trip in the past year, and 61% planning one within the next three years.
Additionally, sustainability is a growing priority, with 45% of UAE and 42% of KSA travelers considering the environmental impact of their journeys on most or every trip. Looking Ahead: The Future of Tourism in UAE and KSA The tourism landscape in the UAE and Saudi Arabia is set for continued growth and innovation. Saudi Arabia’s unprecedented tourism expansion underscores its rising influence, while UAE travelers show a strong preference for personalized rewards and eco-conscious travel.
As traveler expectations evolve, the industry must adapt by offering enhanced loyalty programs and tailored experiences to stay ahead in this rapidly changing market..
