The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Oman, Jordan, and Egypt are poised to transform the Middle East into a premier tourism hub over the next five years, according to the ATM Travel Trends Report 2025. This transformation will be driven by significant airport projects, new hotel openings, and substantial investments in infrastructure, with regional tourism spending projected to reach $350 billion by 2030. The report highlights how these seven nations are enhancing airport traffic, luxury accommodations, sports tourism, and cultural initiatives, positioning the Middle East as one of the fastest-growing and most strategically connected travel regions globally.
UAE: The Luxury Gateway to the Middle East with Ambitious Airport and Hotel Developments
The UAE is experiencing a tourism boom, with record-breaking arrivals and spending. In 2024, Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international tourists, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. This trend continued into 2025, with 7.15 million visitors recorded in the first four months—a 7% increase from the previous year. Dubai's success is attributed to its open border policy, diverse events, and top-notch visitor infrastructure. Looking ahead, the UAE aims to attract 40 million tourists annually by 2031, increasing tourism's GDP contribution to AED 450 billion ($122 billion). Visitor spending is expected to reach $62 billion in 2025, a 37% increase from 2019. The anticipated unified GCC tourist visa will further facilitate travel across the region, encouraging multi-country trips.
UAE's Ambitious Airport Expansion: Building the World's Largest Airfield
The UAE is revolutionizing global aviation with its ambitious airport projects, notably the $35 billion expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) in Dubai. Set to become the world's largest airport by 2034, DWC will feature five parallel runways and over 400 gates, accommodating 260 million passengers annually. This initiative includes relocating operations from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to DWC, creating a vast aerotropolis supported by logistics, hospitality, and advanced infrastructure. Additionally, Dubai plans to invest $2.7 billion to $3 billion in refurbishing Terminal 3 at DXB, while Abu Dhabi's Zayed International Airport Terminal A, inaugurated in 2024, will eventually accommodate 45 million passengers annually.
UAE's Hotel Boom: Redefining Luxury Hospitality
The UAE's hotel sector is rapidly expanding, with 102 hotels planned for 2025, adding over 27,000 rooms. Notable projects include the Wynn Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, a $2.4 billion mega-resort featuring 1,542 rooms and luxury amenities. Dubai continues to lead in hospitality with new flagship hotels in Marina, Downtown, and Jumeirah, while Abu Dhabi develops its offerings on Saadiyat and Yas Islands. Global brands like Hilton, Accor, Mandarin Oriental, and Marriott are expanding their presence, raising the standards for service and sustainability in the region.
UAE's Sporting Events: Year-Round Tourism Drivers
The UAE is leveraging sports and entertainment to attract tourists year-round. Events like Abu Dhabi's Formula 1 Grand Prix and Dubai's high-profile tennis and UFC events consistently draw crowds, boosting hotel occupancy and international air traffic. The rise of esports is also notable, with Dubai developing infrastructure to host major gaming events, further establishing the UAE as a premier sporting destination.
Bold Investments: UAE's Vision for a Next-Gen Tourism Economy
Under the UAE 2031 Tourism Strategy, the country has committed AED 100 billion ($27 billion) to tourism over the next decade, focusing on infrastructure, digital innovation, and visitor services. The goal is to diversify the economy beyond oil and create a competitive, experience-driven tourism sector. Major players like Emaar and Nakheel are launching lifestyle megaprojects, blending hotels, restaurants, and entertainment into cohesive destinations.
Saudi Arabia: The Region's Tourism Powerhouse with Pilgrimage Potential
Saudi Arabia is reshaping its tourism landscape, achieving 100 million visits in 2023—seven years ahead of its Vision 2030 goal. This includes approximately 27 million international tourists, primarily religious pilgrims. By early 2025, the kingdom had already generated SR 49.4 billion ($13.6 billion) in international tourism revenue, reflecting nearly 10% year-on-year growth. The government aims for 150 million annual visits by 2030, driven by enhanced events, festivals, and streamlined visa processes.
Saudi Arabia's Ambitious Airport Developments
The kingdom is undertaking one of the world's most extensive airport renovations, centered around King Salman International Airport in Riyadh, a $147 billion mega-hub set to accommodate 100 million passengers annually by 2030. Other airports, like King Abdulaziz International in Jeddah, are also expanding to handle increased traffic, particularly for religious pilgrimages.
Saudi Arabia's Expanding Hotel Sector
Saudi Arabia leads the Middle East in hotel development, with 319 projects in the pipeline, adding 85,416 rooms. The $110 billion tourism development plan includes diverse accommodations, from eco-lodges to luxury resorts. International brands are entering the market, with Hilton and Wyndham expanding their footprints, while high-end developments like Rua Al Madinah and Amaala are set to attract tourists.
Saudi Arabia's Sports Tourism Initiatives
The kingdom is investing over $4 billion in sports, aiming to host major events like the 2034 FIFA World Cup and the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. This investment is expected to enhance Saudi Arabia's profile as a global sporting destination, with significant spending on national sports infrastructure and events.
Saudi Arabia's Massive Investment in Tourism
Saudi Arabia is committing over $1 trillion to tourism, entertainment, and infrastructure by 2030. Key projects include the $34.6 billion Quality of Life Program and various religious tourism initiatives. These investments are already yielding results, with tourism spending reaching $76 billion in 2024.
Qatar: A Boutique Powerhouse in Luxury Travel and Cultural Heritage
Qatar's tourism sector is thriving post-2022 FIFA World Cup, welcoming approximately 5.07 million international tourists in 2024. The country is positioning itself as a luxurious, culturally rich destination, with a focus on high-spending markets in Asia and Europe.
Qatar's Aviation Expansion
Hamad International Airport is undergoing significant upgrades to enhance capacity and efficiency, serving over 40 million travelers annually. Qatar Airways continues to expand its global network, solidifying the country's position as a key air travel hub.
Qatar's Hotel Market Growth
Qatar is developing 20 new hotels, adding 4,476 rooms to its inventory. The focus is on high-end, culturally infused hospitality experiences, with new openings attracting international acclaim.
Qatar's Sports Tourism Development
Qatar is expanding its sports tourism offerings, hosting events like the inaugural UFC Fight Night in Doha and leveraging its world-class facilities to attract international competitions.
Turkey: A Revitalized Tourism Destination Connecting East and West
Turkey is experiencing a tourism resurgence, with projections of over 56 million foreign visitors in 2024. The country's diverse attractions, from beaches to cultural heritage sites, are drawing travelers from around the globe.
Turkey's Expanding Air Travel Network
Istanbul Airport is a major international hub, handling over 70 million travelers annually. The government is modernizing regional airports to accommodate rising traffic and enhance connectivity.
Turkey's Evolving Hotel Industry
Turkey's hotel sector is rebounding, with new international brands entering the market and a focus on boutique accommodations. The government is promoting sustainable tourism practices and supporting rural developments.
Turkey's Sports Tourism Initiatives
Turkey is emphasizing sports tourism, hosting international events and developing infrastructure to attract athletes and fans. The country aims to diversify its tourism offerings through adventure and wellness activities.
Oman: The Middle East's Hidden Gem for Culture and Eco-Tourism
Oman is emerging as a top destination for nature and cultural tourism, with 5.3 million international visitors in 2024. The country is promoting its diverse landscapes and authentic experiences.
Oman's Airport Modernization
Muscat International Airport is being upgraded to enhance passenger experience and support regional tourism. Oman Air is expanding its routes to attract more visitors.
Oman's Boutique Hotel Development
Oman is focusing on boutique hotels and eco-lodges, offering unique experiences that emphasize authenticity and sustainability. The hotel sector is performing well, with increasing occupancy rates.
Oman's Adventure Tourism Focus
Oman is targeting adventure tourism, promoting activities like hiking, rock climbing, and water sports. The government is working to increase the number of licensed adventure events throughout the year.
Jordan: Revitalizing Tourism with Heritage and Culture
Jordan is experiencing a tourism revival, with a 21% increase in international arrivals in early 2025. The country is promoting its historical sites and cultural experiences to attract visitors.
Jordan's Air Travel Improvements
Queen Alia International Airport is undergoing significant upgrades to accommodate rising passenger numbers. The government is investing in local airports to enhance connectivity.
Jordan's Expanding Hotel Sector
Jordan's hotel industry is growing to meet increasing demand, with new investments in both urban and rural areas. The focus is on providing authentic experiences that reflect local culture.
Jordan's Cultural and Adventure Tourism Initiatives
Jordan is establishing itself as a cultural and adventure tourism destination, hosting events and promoting outdoor activities to attract visitors year-round.
Egypt: A Leader in Historical Tourism and Economic Recovery
Egypt is reclaiming its status as a top tourist destination, welcoming 15.7 million international visitors in 2024. The country is diversifying its tourism offerings to include eco-tourism and cultural events.
Egypt's Airport Infrastructure Upgrades
Egypt is modernizing its airport facilities to accommodate increasing tourist numbers, with significant investments in key airports across the country.
Egypt's Hotel Development Boom
Egypt's hotel sector is expanding rapidly, with numerous projects in the pipeline to cater to diverse traveler needs. The focus is on balancing luxury and accessibility.
Egypt's Cultural and Sports Events
Egypt is leveraging its rich cultural heritage and hosting major sporting events to attract tourists and enhance its international profile.
Conclusion: A New Era for Middle Eastern Tourism
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, Oman, Jordan, and Egypt are collectively reshaping the Middle East's tourism landscape. With substantial investments in infrastructure, hospitality, and cultural initiatives, these nations are positioning the region as a vibrant and diverse travel destination. The Middle East is no longer just a stopover; it is emerging as a dynamic hub for luxury, culture, and adventure, setting the stage for a new era in global tourism.
