Al-Amn Magazine

SECURITY CULTURE T ourism in the GCC region has experienced remarkable growth, driven by strategic initiatives, substantial investments, and a focus on cultural heritage and modern attractions. The region is now a major player in global tourism, attracting millions of visitors each year. Several factors have contributed to this recent surge, but the most notable reason is the region’s target of shifting away from oil as a main source of economic stability. The travel and tourism market in the GCC region is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years. In 2024, the projected revenue for this market was estimated to be $8.08 billion, and it is expected to grow annually at a rate of 3.44 per cent between 2024 and 2029, resulting in a market volume of $9.57 billion by 2029. The GCC region, which includes Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and rapid modern development, making it a prime destination for global travelers. The emergence of tourism in the GCC can be traced back to the late 20th century, with the development of infrastructure and the fostering of a conducive environment for tourism. The turning point came with landmark events that captured global attention, such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Bahrain in 2004, the first in the Middle East, and the Asian Games hosted by Qatar in 2006, marking the first time the event was held in the GCC region. These events showcased the GCC region’s capabilities in hosting world-class events and highlighted its potential as a premier tourism destination. Visions and strategies Since then, the GCC region has doubled down on its efforts to promote tourism, launching several visions and strategies to propel growth and shift away from the oil economy. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Saudi Arabia developed Vision 2030 to reduce its oil dependency by focusing on sectors like tourism, health, education, and infrastructure to stimulate economic growth. Central to this vision is the kingdom’s ambition to become a hub for international and domestic travelers, aiming to welcome 150 million visits a year by 2030 and generating 1.6 million job opportunities. UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 To further solidify its status as a key tourist destination, the UAE has developed the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 under the UAE’s “Projects of the 50”. The vision aims to enhance the nation’s touristic appeal and sustainability, setting a clear course for a prosperous future in global tourism. Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030 Meanwhile, Qatar launched its national strategy with a focus on tourism development. Seeking to attract six million annual visitors within the next decade, the Qatar National Tourism Sector Strategy 2030 encompasses Dri v i ng GCC touri sm growt h Mega proj ect s , uni fied v i sa i n focus