Saudi Arabia Joins Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman in Skyrocketing Tourism Growth Across UAE with a Record Surge in GCC Tourist Arrivals in Dubai Last Year: Everything You Need to Know

In 2025, Saudi Arabia joined Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman in experiencing a skyrocketing tourism growth across the GCC, with a record surge in GCC tourist arrivals in Dubai. This remarkable increase can be attributed to several factors, including improved air connectivity, better visa processes, and a growing preference for Dubai as a top travel destination. The combination of luxury offerings, family-friendly attractions, and world-class events like the Dubai Shopping Festival made the emirate a favorite for travelers from the GCC. The surge in visitors reflects both regional economic stability and Dubai’s ability to capitalize on its appeal to GCC residents, offering them convenient access to a cosmopolitan destination that remains in close proximity. This surge has not only contributed significantly to Dubai’s tourism revenue but also solidified the city’s status as a premier regional hub, further strengthening the ties between Dubai and its neighboring GCC nations.

The Rise of GCC Tourism

GCC tourism has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by both increased regional connectivity and a shared cultural affinity among the member countries. Dubai, in particular, has emerged as the prime destination for GCC travelers, offering a mix of luxury, entertainment, and family-friendly experiences. The ease of travel, with relatively short distances and improved air connectivity between GCC nations, has made Dubai a convenient and attractive option for weekend getaways, shopping sprees, and cultural events. Additionally, the thriving cultural and economic ties between GCC nations have fostered a strong tourism flow within the region, with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman consistently ranking among the top contributors to Dubai’s tourism numbers. This rise in intra-GCC tourism has not only bolstered Dubai’s tourism industry but has also highlighted the growing importance of regional tourism within the broader global travel market.

Saudi Arabia: Dubai’s Largest GCC Market in 2025

Saudi Arabia has once again secured its position as the largest GCC contributor to Dubai’s tourism, with over 1.5 million visitors in 2025. The proximity between the two nations, coupled with a growing ease of travel, continues to drive strong connections. The trend was largely fueled by Saudi nationals taking advantage of long weekends and seasonal festivals, as Dubai offers an appealing blend of luxury, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Many Saudi families made Dubai their prime destination for short getaways, shopping, and special occasions. The thriving cultural events, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival, attracted thousands of visitors from Saudi Arabia, further solidifying the city as a prime destination. Moreover, the growth in air connectivity and improved visa processes for Saudi citizens allowed for more seamless travel between the two regions. In 2025, the increase in leisure and business travel between Saudi Arabia and Dubai was unmistakable, making it clear that the longstanding ties and shared cultural affinity will continue to shape tourism trends for the foreseeable future.

Qatar: A Resilient Return to Dubai

Qatar made an impressive return to Dubai’s tourism scene in 2025, with 98,000 visitors marking a continued recovery since the normalization of regional travel. The Qatari market experienced a boost in travel to Dubai, driven by an increasing number of tourists seeking leisure, business, and cultural experiences. Qataris traditionally visit Dubai for its shopping festivals, luxury experiences, and world-class attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and Palm Jumeirah. As relations between the two countries have normalized, the flow of visitors has become more consistent, and many Qataris now travel regularly to enjoy Dubai’s dynamic mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The 2025 recovery saw a greater emphasis on exploring Dubai’s modern architectural marvels, attending major events like the Dubai Expo, and visiting the growing arts and culture scene. Despite the challenges of the past few years, the resilience of Qatari tourism has been reflected in this continued growth, and it’s clear that Dubai remains a premier destination for Qatari tourists seeking a blend of both tradition and modern luxury.

Oman: The Road to Dubai is Always Open

Oman has always been a significant source of visitors for Dubai, and 2025 was no exception. With 1.12 million visitors from Oman, the country ranked second in the GCC market, thanks to a high volume of road-trippers who frequent Dubai for short escapes. Omanis have long been drawn to Dubai’s cosmopolitan offerings, including its world-class shopping malls, iconic skyscrapers, and luxury resorts. The ease of travel between the two nations—just a short drive away—further boosts this traffic. The Oman-UAE road connections are well-trodden paths for Omanis looking to escape the demands of daily life, seeking entertainment, leisure, and unforgettable experiences. Dubai’s proximity allows for a quick and convenient getaway, making it a natural destination for family vacations and shopping trips. Omani tourists are also known for their interest in high-end experiences, whether staying in luxury hotels or dining at top-tier restaurants. With consistently high travel volume, Oman continues to be a vital link in driving Dubai’s tourism success, especially when it comes to the road-tripping segment.

Kuwait: Luxury and Family Appeal Drives Steady Growth

Kuwait’s contribution to Dubai’s tourism in 2025 was marked by steady growth, with approximately 225,000 Kuwaiti visitors flocking to the emirate. Kuwaitis are drawn to Dubai for its refined luxury, high-end shopping experiences, and family-friendly attractions. The city’s world-renowned malls, such as The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, are popular destinations for Kuwaiti visitors looking for both shopping and entertainment. In addition to retail therapy, the numerous luxury hotels, spas, and fine dining options have become significant draws for Kuwaiti travelers. Dubai’s reputation as a family-oriented destination continues to rise in popularity, as Kuwaiti families make the trip for extended vacations or special events. The growth is also a result of better connectivity, with direct flights and attractive seasonal promotions that make Dubai a prime choice for short to medium-length vacations. The trend reflects Kuwait’s growing interest in Dubai’s luxury offerings, with more families opting for stays at resort-style hotels, while young professionals gravitate toward the vibrant nightlife and dining scenes. As Kuwaiti travelers seek out comfort and high-quality experiences, Dubai’s tourism industry is increasingly catering to this demand, ensuring that the allure of luxury and family-friendly options remains strong.

Bahrain: Short-Stay Escapes for Shopping and Leisure

Bahrain’s 37,000 visitors in 2025 highlighted the ongoing appeal of Dubai as a prime short-stay destination for Bahrainis, particularly for weekend getaways and shopping sprees. The close proximity between the two nations, coupled with the accessibility of short flights, means that Bahrainis frequently choose Dubai for their leisure breaks, looking to escape for a few days of indulgence. Shopping is a key driver of travel for Bahrainis, with Dubai offering a wide range of retail experiences, from luxury brands to unique regional products. Additionally, Bahrainis flock to Dubai for its vibrant nightlife, cultural events, and entertainment options. With a reputation for both relaxation and excitement, Dubai continues to attract Bahraini visitors seeking a weekend of fun, shopping, and fine dining. Short stays focused on leisure and luxury shopping were the main themes for Bahraini tourists in 2025, with many also seeking the renowned spa experiences and world-class hotels that the emirate is famous for. As the gateway for short, high-quality experiences, Dubai remains the go-to destination for Bahrainis looking for an easily accessible and memorable escape.

Dubai’s Record-Breaking Tourism Surge in 2025

Dubai’s tourism sector achieved a remarkable milestone in 2025, with 19.59 million visitors, marking its third consecutive record-breaking year. This 5% increase from 2024 solidified Dubai’s position among the world’s most visited cities. The city’s “source market” strategy continued to pay off, with a diversified mix of visitors from across the globe. Western Europe contributed the largest share at 21%, followed by regional neighbors in the GCC and South Asia, each accounting for 15% of the total visitors. Other significant markets included CIS & Eastern Europe and MENA (excluding GCC), while North/South East Asia also saw a notable share. India, Russia, the UK, and Saudi Arabia remained top contributors. Notably, December 2025 was a standout month, as Dubai welcomed over 2 million visitors, a first for the city.

Region	Share of Visitors	Total Visitors (Approx)
Western Europe	21%	4.10 million
GCC (Regional)	15%	2.89 million
South Asia	15%	2.89 million
CIS & Eastern Europe	15%	2.89 million
MENA (Excl. GCC)	11%	2.17 million
North/South East Asia	9%	1.85 million

In 2025, Saudi Arabia joined Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman in experiencing skyrocketing tourism growth with a record surge in GCC tourist arrivals to Dubai, driven by better connectivity and Dubai’s growing regional appeal.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia has joined Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman in contributing to the skyrocketing tourism growth across the region, with a record surge in GCC tourist arrivals to Dubai in 2025. This surge is driven by improved travel connectivity, easier visa processes, and Dubai’s appeal as a luxury and family-friendly destination. As Dubai continues to solidify its position as the top choice for GCC travelers, the increasing number of visitors from these countries highlights the strengthening ties between the UAE and its regional neighbors, ensuring that Dubai remains a premier destination for years to come.

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Canada Joins Germany, South Korea, France, China, India, and Others in Driving US Tourism Freefall With Over Ten Billion Dollars in Lost Revenue Last Year: Everything You Need to Know

In 2025, the U.S. tourism sector faced a severe downturn, as countries like Canada, Germany, South Korea, France, China, India, and others contributed significantly to the decline, collectively driving a tourism freefall that resulted in a staggering loss of over ten billion dollars in revenue. This dramatic drop in visitor spending can be traced to a combination of factors that impacted international travel to the U.S., including stringent visa policies, rising costs due to the strong dollar, geopolitical tensions, and changing global sentiment. Canada, traditionally the largest source of U.S. tourism, saw a massive 22.1% decline in visitors, directly contributing to the downturn, while other nations, including Germany, South Korea, France, and China, also reported significant drops in tourist arrivals. India, a rapidly growing market, also saw a slowdown, highlighting the global nature of the issue. The collective impact of these declines has not only harmed U.S. tourism’s financial health but also created ripple effects in sectors like hospitality, retail, and transportation, making the loss of over ten billion dollars in tourism revenue a critical issue for the U.S. economy.

Projected Revenue Loss and Decline in Visitor Volume in the US Tourism Sector in 2025

US tourism sector is set to experience a significant financial hit, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Tourism Economics estimating a loss of between $10 billion and $15.7 billion in visitor spending. This drop is largely attributed to a 5.4% to 6% decrease in international arrivals, resulting in a shortfall of approximately 11 million visitors compared to pre-2024 election forecasts. The decline in visitor numbers has far-reaching consequences for the U.S. economy, particularly in regions heavily dependent on tourism, with industries such as hospitality, retail, and transportation bearing the brunt of the downturn. Factors like geopolitical instability, shifting economic conditions, and changing consumer confidence continue to pose challenges to the tourism sector. While some areas may recover more quickly than others, the overall drop in international travel highlights the vulnerabilities within the industry. It underscores the need for the U.S. tourism sector to adopt more resilient strategies to mitigate the impact of external disruptions and work towards regaining lost revenue.

Canada: The Top Contributor to the Slump

Canada, traditionally the largest source of tourism to the United States, experienced a significant decline in 2025, with arrivals dropping by 22.1% to 13.47 million, down from 17.30 million in 2024. This decline accounted for 23.6% of all international arrivals to the U.S., making it the most substantial contributor to the tourism slump. The drop was felt most acutely at land-border crossings, which saw a dramatic 28% contraction, while air travel from Canada also fell by 13.3%. Several factors contributed to this downturn, including stricter visa regulations and a negative sentiment toward the U.S. stemming from immigration policies. These hurdles, coupled with the strong U.S. dollar, made the U.S. less appealing compared to other destinations. Additionally, the economic uncertainties surrounding trade disputes and tariffs, particularly with Canada’s neighbor to the south, the U.S., created a sense of instability, discouraging travel. The loss of Canadian tourists has had a massive economic impact, particularly on border states where retail and casino industries rely heavily on Canadian visitors. With fewer cross-border travelers, these areas faced significant declines in spending, job losses, and reduced tax revenue, further exacerbating the tourism downturn.

Germany: A Steep Decline in European Travel

Germany, one of the U.S.’s key European markets, saw a notable 11.8% drop in tourism in 2025, with arrivals falling to 1.52 million from 1.72 million in the previous year. This decrease, while less severe than some other regions, highlights the broader challenges faced by the U.S. tourism sector in Europe. The strong U.S. dollar made travel to the U.S. significantly more expensive for German visitors, who have increasingly opted for more affordable destinations within Europe. Additionally, geopolitical tensions and an overall sense of insecurity about the U.S.’s immigration policies contributed to the decline. The sharp reduction in German visitors is felt especially in major urban areas like New York and California, where German tourists are known for their long stays and high spending on luxury goods, cultural experiences, and dining. The loss of this lucrative market not only translates to direct spending losses but also affects jobs in the hospitality, retail, and transportation sectors. Given the established strong tourism ties between the U.S. and Germany, this downturn reflects a broader shift in travel preferences, pushing tourists away from the U.S. and toward more stable and cost-effective alternatives.

South Korea: Decreasing Demand Amid Rising Costs

South Korea, a key source of tourism for the U.S., experienced a 5.8% decline in arrivals in 2025, with the number of visitors falling to 1.36 million from 1.44 million. This reduction in South Korean travel is a reflection of several key factors, including rising travel costs due to the strong U.S. dollar and increased airfares. While South Korea has traditionally been one of the U.S.’s top Asian markets, the economic uncertainty surrounding trade tensions, coupled with tighter visa requirements, has made the U.S. a less desirable destination. South Koreans are known for their extended stays and high levels of spending, especially on luxury goods, entertainment, and cultural experiences. However, the tightening of U.S. visa policies, including the introduction of the “visa integrity fee” and other hurdles, has discouraged many South Koreans from visiting. With fewer visitors, the U.S. tourism industry has seen declines in spending in key sectors, including retail, dining, and tourism services. Additionally, the broader economic effects of this downturn are evident in reduced job growth and tax revenue for cities and regions that depend heavily on international tourism.

France: A Gradual but Persistent Drop

France, another crucial European market for U.S. tourism, saw a decline in arrivals of 6.8% in 2025, with the number of French visitors falling to 1.36 million from 1.46 million in 2024. While not as severe as the downturn seen in Canada or Germany, the loss of French visitors has significant economic implications for the U.S. tourism industry. The French have historically been major contributors to U.S. tourism, particularly in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Miami, where they spend on upscale shopping, art, and fine dining. However, the growing perception of the U.S. as an unwelcoming destination, due to strict visa requirements and ongoing immigration policies, has deterred many French tourists from visiting. Moreover, the strong U.S. dollar, combined with economic instability and trade concerns, has made it more expensive for the French to travel to the U.S. and led many to opt for other destinations. The loss of French tourists has led to reduced consumer spending in hospitality, retail, and the arts, key sectors that rely heavily on international visitors. This downturn reflects broader changes in European travel habits and has contributed to a noticeable economic loss for the U.S. tourism industry.

China (PRC): A Slight Decline with Significant Implications

China, once a rapidly growing source of international visitors to the United States, saw a 3.1% decline in arrivals in 2025, with the number of visitors falling to 1.36 million from 1.40 million in 2024. Although the decrease is relatively modest, it highlights the broader trend of Chinese travelers seeking alternatives to the U.S. amid ongoing political tensions, visa difficulties, and a stronger U.S. dollar. The Chinese market is particularly important for U.S. tourism, as Chinese tourists tend to spend significantly on shopping, luxury experiences, and sightseeing. However, geopolitical factors such as trade disputes and the U.S. government’s stance on Chinese nationals have made travel to the U.S. less appealing. Additionally, the introduction of stricter visa requirements and heightened scrutiny of Chinese travelers has discouraged many from visiting. The economic impact of this slight decline is felt across the U.S. tourism industry, especially in major urban centers like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, where Chinese tourists contribute significantly to local retail and hospitality revenues. As China’s tourism to the U.S. continues to shrink, the industry faces continued economic losses, particularly in the high-spending Chinese market.

India: A Slower Yet Noticeable Decline

India, one of the fastest-growing tourism markets for the U.S., saw a modest decline of 5.2% in 2025, with arrivals dropping to 1.79 million from 1.89 million the previous year. While the decrease is less dramatic compared to other countries, it still represents a significant loss for the U.S. tourism sector, particularly given the increasing number of Indian travelers in recent years. Factors contributing to this decline include stricter visa and entry requirements, including the introduction of social media checks and high visa fees, which have made it more challenging and less attractive for Indian tourists to visit. Additionally, the U.S.’s diplomatic relations with India, alongside rising airfare costs and a stronger dollar, have deterred potential travelers. The Indian market is known for its growing middle class, which frequently visits the U.S. for both leisure and business purposes. With fewer Indian tourists, U.S. businesses, particularly in sectors like education, retail, and entertainment, face a significant reduction in spending. Despite the decline, India remains a critical market, and further losses could have serious long-term implications for the U.S. tourism economy, which depends on the growing number of international visitors.

The “Trump Slump” and Its Economic Impact on U.S. Tourism

The “Trump Slump” refers to a decline in international tourism to the United States, driven by the policies and rhetoric of the Trump administration. This downturn has been particularly notable in two periods: the first term (2017–2020) and more acutely in the second term starting in 2025. As of early 2026, the U.S. stands as the only major global destination experiencing a decrease in international visitors, while the rest of the world sees a post-pandemic tourism boom. This has led to a significant revenue loss, with the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and Tourism Economics projecting a loss of $10 billion to $15.7 billion in visitor spending for 2025 alone. The U.S. saw a 5.4% to 6% drop in international arrivals, amounting to a shortfall of about 11 million visitors compared to previous forecasts. The hospitality sector was severely impacted, with 98,000 jobs lost in 2025. Notably, Canada, the U.S.’s largest source of tourism, saw a staggering 28% to 32% drop in travel to the U.S., particularly affecting border states.

Metric	2025 Observed Trend	Impact/Loss
International Arrivals	-6.0% (vs. global +4% growth)	~11 million missing visitors
Direct Spending Loss	-5.5% (Year-over-Year)	~$12 billion to $15.7 billion
Canadian Market	-20% to -30%	Massive hit to border state retail/casinos
Hospitality Jobs	-98,000 positions	Reduced service capacity and tax revenue

Primary Causes of the Slump in U.S. Tourism

Several factors have contributed to the decline in U.S. tourism in 2025:

• Visa & Entry Hurdles: The introduction of a $250 “visa integrity fee” and requirements for visitors to provide five years of social media history have made it more difficult for high-spending tourists to enter the U.S., discouraging international travel.
• The “Welcome” Factor: Aggressive immigration enforcement and negative rhetoric around immigration have fostered a sense of unwelcomeness, creating a “negative sentiment” toward the U.S. as a tourist destination.
• Strong Dollar: The high value of the U.S. dollar has made American vacations significantly more expensive for foreign travelers, making destinations like Europe or Japan more attractive options.
• Tariff Turmoil: Ongoing trade disputes, particularly with China and Canada, have historically led to drops in business travel from these nations, further impacting tourism numbers.

In 2025, Canada, Germany, South Korea, France, China, India, and others contributed to the U.S. tourism freefall, resulting in over ten billion dollars in lost revenue due to high visa fees, geopolitical tensions, and rising costs.

Conclusion

U.S. tourism freefall in 2025, driven by countries like Canada, Germany, South Korea, France, China, India, and others, resulted in over ten billion dollars in lost revenue. This decline can be attributed to multiple factors, including high visa fees, strict entry policies, the strong U.S. dollar, and ongoing geopolitical tensions. These factors, combined with shifting global travel trends, significantly impacted international visitor numbers, ultimately harming key sectors like hospitality and retail. As the U.S. tourism industry navigates this downturn, it is crucial to address these challenges to regain lost revenue and restore its status as a top global travel destination.

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