Tourism revenue in the six Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries increased by 9.7% in 2025, reaching $131.9 billion, as international visitor arrivals grew 4.9% to 75.7 million, according to figures released by the GCC Statistical Center. Intra-GCC tourist travel also expanded by 3.6%, with 20.1 million movements recorded. The hospitality sector responded to increased demand by raising the number of hotel establishments by 4.8% to 12,400 in 2025.
Digital Readiness and Rankings in the GCC
The GCC countries showed a wide range of digital technology adoption, scoring between 34 to 99 points on the 2025 Emerging Technologies Adoption Index, with three countries ranking among the top 20
globally. Scores on the 2025 Mobile Application Development Index ranged from 60 to 77 across the region, reflecting available digital infrastructure supporting tourism-related app development. In the Government Online Services Index, GCC scores varied from 56 to 99, with three member states placed within the world’s top 25 in digital government services.
Impact of Digital Transformation on Tourism Services
Digital government services in the GCC have streamlined travel procedures and accommodation bookings, enhancing visitor convenience. The integration of artificial intelligence and data analytics allows tourism providers to better understand visitor preferences, predict demand, and deliver personalized services. Additionally, developing shared digital platforms that connect bookings, transport options,
events, and tourism information across GCC countries could further facilitate cross-border travel and improve access to cultural, heritage, and entertainment sites.
Tourism’s Role in GCC Economic Diversification
Tourism continues to support the GCC’s diversification efforts beyond oil dependency by boosting sectors such as aviation, transport, hospitality, retail, and entertainment. The growth in tourism revenue and arrivals contributes to investments, job creation, and expansion of non-oil economic activities throughout the region. The weekly bulletin from the GCC Statistical Center titled ‘Gulf Tourism in the Era of Smart Transformation’ emphasizes the sector’s growing importance within the GCC economies.
