Travel, Tourism & Hospitality
Barbados records 31pc surge in GCC arrivals in 2024
Barbados Tourism Marketing (BTMI) has reported a robust 31 per cent year-on-year increase in arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in 2024, as the island continues to interest the travellers seeking authentic, high-end Caribbean escapes.
Barbados Tourism Marketing (BTMI) has reported a robust 31 per cent year-on-year increase in arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in 2024, as the island continues to interest the travellers seeking authentic, high-end Caribbean escapes.
The UAE led the visitor numbers, followed by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with increases of 30 per cent and 36 per cent, respectively. Oman also emerged as a standout market, registering an impressive 104 per cent increase in travellers to Barbados compared to the previous year.
This regional upswing reflects a growing appetite for long-haul, luxury leisure travel among GCC residents, particularly to culturally rich destinations like Barbados. The island’s appeal lies in its pristine beaches, vibrant culinary scene, and a wide range of family-friendly and wellness-focused experiences. The presence of luxury family all-inclusive resorts also serves as a value-add for family travellers from the region.
“We are incredibly proud to see Barbados striking a chord with discerning travellers from the GCC who seek authenticity, luxury and enriching experiences. This upward momentum fuels our commitment to deepening strategic investments in the region and amplifying Barbados’ unique appeal on the global stage. The appointment of our new Director of Emerging Markets, Kyle Gittens, coupled with the impressive growth in arrivals from the GCC, highlights our dedication to expanding Barbados’ international footprint and welcoming new audiences to our island,” said CEO of the BTMI, Andrea Franklin.
“The GCC continues to show strong potential as an emerging source market,” said Kyle C. Gittens, Director of Emerging Markets, BTMI. “Travellers from this region are seeking unique, meaningful experiences and Barbados delivers on that promise—from immersive island culture to unmatched hospitality. We are encouraged by the growth and are committed to further strengthening our presence in the market.” -TradeArabia News Service