In 2025, UAE, along with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, and other countries, faces a significant drop in tourism in middle east due to global economic factors, shifting travel trends, and regional challenges. The tourism sector in these nations has been impacted by a variety of forces, including geopolitical tensions, economic slowdowns, and changing travel patterns. These countries, which have long relied on high-value tourists and business travel, are seeing a decline in both arrivals and tourism receipts. Despite these challenges, efforts to diversify tourism offerings, enhance infrastructure, and host international events are underway to boost recovery and attract visitors in the years ahead.

UAE: A Minor Dip in Arrivals, Major Drop in Tourism Spending

The UAE recorded a 0.1% decline in tourist arrivals YTD compared to the previous year, alongside a significant 9.7% decline in tourism receipts. While the decrease in arrivals is marginal, the sharp drop in tourism revenue points to a reduction in high-value tourists and longer stays. The UAE’s hospitality and tourism sector, which heavily depends on luxury tourism and business-related travel, has seen some setbacks due to the global economic climate, shifting travel preferences, and competition from emerging destinations. Despite this, the UAE continues to invest in large-scale projects like Expo 2020 Dubai and is working to rebound by offering innovative tourist experiences and increasing international marketing efforts.

Qatar: Growth in Visitors, but Tourism Receipts Take a Dive

Qatar experienced a 3.4% growth in tourist arrivals YTD; however, this was overshadowed by a 47.2% decline in tourism receipts over the previous year. Despite the increase in the number of visitors, the significant drop in revenue indicates a shift in visitor profiles, with fewer high-spending tourists or shorter stays. Qatar has been making efforts to diversify its tourism offering, particularly by investing in major events like the FIFA World Cup 2022 and promoting its cultural attractions. Nevertheless, the country faces challenges in sustaining high-value tourism, and the economic factors affecting global tourism are evident in the data.

Saudi Arabia: A Bumpy Road for Tourism with a 4.5% Decline

Saudi Arabia experienced a 4.5% decline in tourist arrivals YTD compared to the previous year. In addition, the country saw a 6.5% decline in tourism receipts YTD over the prior year. This decline is indicative of the challenges faced by the kingdom’s tourism sector in 2025. Despite the kingdom’s efforts to diversify its economy and attract more international visitors, factors such as geopolitical tensions, global economic slowdowns, and changes in travel patterns have impacted Saudi Arabia’s tourism industry. The country is working on enhancing its tourism infrastructure, focusing on projects like the Red Sea Project and hosting international events to recover and boost visitor numbers in the coming years.

Jordan: Struggling to Keep Pace with Tourism Declines

Jordan saw a 2.4% decline in tourist arrivals YTD and a 2.3% decline in tourism receipts compared to the previous year. This reduction can be attributed to factors such as regional instability, economic pressures, and changing global travel habits. Jordan’s tourism industry, which heavily depends on visitors to Petra, the Dead Sea, and other cultural heritage sites, faced challenges from fluctuating global demand. However, the Jordanian government has been focusing on diversifying its tourism offerings and improving infrastructure to attract more international visitors. The country is also looking at sustainable tourism practices to ensure a long-term recovery.

Oman: A Mixed Bag for Tourism with a Steady Revenue Impact

Oman saw a 6.7% decline in tourist arrivals YTD, though it managed to maintain a 0% change in tourism receipts compared to the previous year. While the country has not seen a further reduction in revenue, the drop in tourist numbers reflects broader regional trends, including the impacts of the global pandemic, fluctuating oil prices, and the economic recovery from past disruptions. Oman’s tourism sector continues to face challenges in attracting large international markets. However, the government remains focused on sustainable tourism initiatives and enhancing the country’s natural and cultural offerings, like the Al Hoota Cave and the coastal regions, to improve future performance.

Kuwait: A Steady Decline in Arrivals, But Receipts Hold Steady

Kuwait saw a 0.3% decline in tourist arrivals YTD, and no change in tourism receipts compared to the previous year. The country’s tourism sector faces slow growth, with the minor decline in arrivals reflecting broader regional and global economic conditions. The tourism sector in Kuwait remains reliant on regional tourism, with international visitors still accounting for a smaller share of overall arrivals. Efforts to diversify its economy and boost its tourism offerings through infrastructure development, such as the Kuwait National Museum and more extensive leisure offerings, are in the works. However, the impact of the pandemic and subsequent global recovery continues to affect its progress.

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UAE sees a 0.1% dip in arrivals, 9.7% drop in receipts. This decline is part of a broader trend, as the UAE, along with Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, and Kuwait, faces a significant drop in tourism in middle east for nine successive months in 2025 due to global economic factors and shifting travel trends.

Conclusion

UAE sees a 0.1% dip in arrivals, 9.7% drop in receipts, marking a significant decline in tourism in middle east. This trend, shared by Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Oman, Kuwait, and more, highlights the challenges faced by these nations in 2025, driven by global economic factors and shifting travel patterns. Despite these setbacks, these countries are working to rebound by diversifying their tourism offerings, improving infrastructure, and hosting major international events to attract future visitors.

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To boost Oman’s tourism potential, the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MHT) has signed a contract with Al Awabi Fort Foundation to develop, manage and promote Al Awabi Fort in the Wilayat of Al Awabi, South Batinah Governorate. This represents a landmark effort in the development of the site as a cultural tourism offering and the continued advancement of Oman’s tourism and heritage sectors.

The agreement was signed on October 29, 2023, with the H.E. Eng. Ibrahim Said Al Kharusi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism for Heritage and Abdul Hamid bin Abdul Rahman Al Al Kharusi, Chairman of Al Awabi Fort Foundation. The project aims to develop the tourism potential and economic development of Al Awabi which is rich in Omani history and architecture.

Al Awabi Fort: A Symbol of Omani Heritage and Architecture

Al Awabi Fort is one of the most important historical landmarks in South Batinah. Its construction reflects the region’s rich architectural legacy and offers a fascinating insight into Oman’s military and cultural past. The fort, which has stood for centuries, is an iconic example of traditional Omani fortifications, showcasing the country’s historical connection to defense, regional cooperation, and strategic location.

Once fully developed, Al Awabi Fort is set to become a focal point for both domestic and international visitors interested in Oman’s heritage. It represents not only a significant historical site but also a powerful tool for promoting the country’s rich cultural assets. The fort’s development will bring new life to a heritage site, making it accessible to tourists while preserving its historical integrity.

Enhancing Tourism and Economic Opportunities

The partnership between the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism and the Al Awabi Fort Foundation is designed to maximize the cultural and economic potential of this important landmark. By improving access to Al Awabi Fort, the government aims to attract more visitors from both within Oman and from abroad, positioning the site as a key cultural destination within the Sultanate.

The project will create a variety of tourism and cultural programming opportunities, including exhibitions, craft fairs, and entertainment events. These activities will not only showcase the depth of Omani culture but also encourage diverse investments in the tourism sector. Craft exhibitions, for example, will highlight the country’s traditional arts and crafts, drawing interest from tourists keen to explore authentic Omani culture.

Job Creation and Local Economic Impact

One of the most significant benefits of this development is the positive impact it will have on the local community. By creating both direct and indirect employment opportunities, the project will contribute to the economic development of Al Awabi and the surrounding areas. Local residents will benefit from the increased demand for services and hospitality, as well as from the rise in tourism spending.

The hospitality sector will see a boost, as new accommodations, restaurants, and retail services will be needed to cater to the influx of tourists. The project’s focus on cultural programming and community involvement will ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared across the local population, helping to uplift the region’s economy and create sustainable livelihoods.

Moreover, the inclusion of private sector involvement in the management and operation of Al Awabi Fort is expected to stimulate further investment in the region, attracting both domestic and international investors interested in the growing tourism market. This approach will ensure the long-term sustainability of the project, providing both economic and cultural benefits for future generations.

Modernizing the Fort for Global Tourists

Once the development process is completed, Al Awabi Fort will be operated in line with modern tourism standards, ensuring that visitors have a world-class experience while also respecting the site’s cultural and historical significance. Facilities at the fort will be upgraded to include modern visitor amenities such as guided tours, educational displays, and interactive exhibits, allowing visitors to better engage with the site’s history.

The fort will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance the visitor experience, including digital guides and multimedia presentations that will bring Oman’s rich heritage to life in an immersive way. The modernized fort will cater to a variety of tourists, from history enthusiasts and cultural explorers to families and educational groups, ensuring that it remains an attractive destination for a broad audience.

The focus on accessibility and modern infrastructure is key to making the fort a must-visit site for tourists traveling to Oman. As one of the country’s most significant historical landmarks, the fort will play a central role in promoting Oman’s cultural tourism, attracting visitors who seek an authentic and enriching experience.

Supporting Sustainable Tourism in Oman

Oman’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation is reflected in the way Al Awabi Fort will be managed. The project aims to balance the growth of tourism with the preservation of the fort’s historical and architectural value, ensuring that it remains a living testament to Oman’s heritage for future generations.

Incorporating sustainable practices into the development of Al Awabi Fort will set a precedent for other cultural and heritage projects across the country. This approach will not only preserve Oman’s rich history but also ensure that the benefits of tourism are enjoyed by local communities without compromising the integrity of its cultural landmarks.

By focusing on sustainability, the Omani government aims to promote a tourism model that supports long-term growth while minimizing environmental impact. This model will contribute to the broader goal of making Oman a leading destination for eco-friendly and sustainable tourism.

Strengthening Oman’s Position as a Cultural Tourism Hub

The development and operation of Al Awabi Fort as a key cultural and heritage tourism site is part of Oman’s broader strategy to become a leading destination for cultural tourism in the Middle East and beyond. The project will help to position the Sultanate as a country that values its rich history and is committed to preserving it while also creating opportunities for growth in the tourism sector.

As Oman continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, initiatives like the Al Awabi Fort project are crucial in helping the country diversify its tourism offerings. By promoting heritage tourism alongside other forms of tourism, such as adventure and eco-tourism, Oman is establishing itself as a destination that appeals to a wide range of global travelers.

A Step Toward a Thriving Cultural Tourism Future

The signing of the agreement to develop and operate Al Awabi Fort is another step to making Oman a global leader in cultural tourism. With Al Awabi Fort at the hub of this vision, Oman is transforming its sustainable tourism, expanding the cultural tourism job market, and cementing heritage as a pillar of economic development. Oman’s sustainable models of tourism development and cultural heritage preservation will pioneer ethical, value-added, and immersive travel experiences to visitors from every corner of the world. Informed by its history, Oman’s architectural wonders and sustainable models of tourism development will immerse tourist to the best of what Oman offers. Active development of Al Awabi Fort will symbolize Oman’s capacity to intertwine modernity and of-culture prosperity, pioneer tourism growth development, and cement heritage as a pillar of economic development.