Bahrain records strong tourism growth following “We Miss You” initiative
Mon, 01 Jun 2026
Bahrain’s tourism sector has seen strong growth since the “We Miss You” campaign, with increased GCC arrivals during Eid Al Adha. The Minister said the country is prepared for summer demand with expanded leisure offerings and regional promotions.
GCC hotel numbers top 11,200, tourism revenue hits $120bn
Sun, 24 May 2026
The number of hotel establishments across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries exceeded 11,200 in 2024, up 1.3 per cent from the previous year, according to data released by the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab Countries of the Gulf (GCC-Stat).
flydubai inks deal with Cyprus Airways to boost global connectivity
Sat, 23 May 2026
Dubai budget carrier flydubai have announced the launch of a new interline agreement, designed to enhance international connectivity and provide passengers with seamless access to an expanded network of destinations across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and the GCC.
Moscow expands services for GCC travellers
Tue, 19 May 2026
Moscow expects more GCC visitors this summer, driven by demand for safety, culture and luxury. The city is expanding halal dining, premium hotels and Arabic support, alongside the “Discover Moscow” platform offering tailored travel information.
Ascott expands in GCC with Citadines Sharq Kuwait opening
Tue, 19 May 2026
The Ascott is expanding in the GCC with the upcoming Citadines Sharq Kuwait, marking its entry into Kuwait. The opening supports its focus on flexible hospitality and contributes to a regional growth plan targeting 15,000 units by 2030.
Germany targets GCC tourists with culture, family attractions
Tue, 19 May 2026
Germany invites GCC travellers for summer and Eid holidays, showcasing culture, nature, heritage, and family-friendly attractions across its cities and landscapes in a balanced travel experience.
Malaysia launches 2026 events, tourism push for GCC travellers
Tue, 19 May 2026
Malaysia is set to roll out a line-up of festivals, events, and retail experiences across the country, positioning the destination as an option for GCC travellers planning holidays around the Eid al Adha period.
Bahrain targets GCC families with tourism push
Thu, 14 May 2026
Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) launched a campaign promoting Bahrain’s concerts, festivals, family attractions, sports and shopping experiences, aiming to attract GCC visitors seeking entertainment-filled weekend breaks and short regional getaways.
Gulf tourism set for stronger recovery, says aviation leader
Wed, 29 Apr 2026
Gulf States can become stronger tourism destinations after conflict, said aviation leader and Knighthood Global Chairman James Hogan, citing strong branding, leadership, and investment. He urged a focus on destination strengths and openness rather than price-driven strategies for recovery.
GCC projects tourism losses of up to $32bn amid regional tensions
Sun, 12 Apr 2026
GCC Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi said rising regional tensions are a major test for member states’ stability and vital sectors, warning tourism could fall by 8–19 million visitors, risking $13–$32 billion in losses.
Bahrain, UAE launch one-stop air travel system
Tue, 17 Feb 2026
Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will officially activate the first phase of a long-planned one-stop air travel system today (February 17), launching a significant step towards seamless mobility within the GCC.
BlueFive Capital launches new aircraft leasing platform
Thu, 12 Feb 2026
BlueFive Capital, a global investment platform with $7.4 billion in assets under management (AUM), has announced the launch of BlueFive Leasing, the Gulf region's first dedicated aircraft leasing asset management platform, based in Muscat, Oman.
GCC tourism growth boosts Asian presence at ATM 2026
Wed, 11 Feb 2026
Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, which takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre on 4-7 May, is projecting a significant increase in exhibitors from Asia-Pacific countries, underpinned by a strong 13.95% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in participation from Asian exhibitors over the 2024–2026 period.
GCC international tourism revenues surge to $120bn in 2024
Sun, 18 Jan 2026
International tourism revenues in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states rose to $120.2 billion in 2024, up 39.6 per cent from 2019 and 8.9 per cent from 2023, the Statistical Centre for the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (Gulf-Stat) said.
GCC’s Unified Civil Aviation Authority: A strategic leap forward
Thu, 15 Jan 2026
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has taken a landmark step: the creation of a Unified GCC Civil Aviation Authority. This initiative isn’t just bureaucratic housekeeping — it’s an effort that we all hope will build a stronger, safer, and more efficient air transport system for the GCC.
Germany boosts commitment to GCC travellers as spending hits $2.6bn
Thu, 27 Nov 2025
The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) highlighted the Gulf region as Germany’s third-largest overseas tourist source, with €2.3 billion ($2.6 billion) spent in 2024, during a Dubai press conference marking 20 years in the GCC.
Azerbaijan Tourism Board completes GCC Roadshow
Tue, 18 Nov 2025
A series of roadshows across the GCC countries was organised by Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB), together with 8 industry partners to promote Azerbaijan’s diverse tourism offerings.
GCC approves first phase of "one-stop" travel for citizens
Thu, 13 Nov 2025
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) has given the thumbs up to the first phase of a "one-stop" travel system that allows Gulf Arab nationals to complete all travel procedures at one point. The new system would first run a trial period for air travel between the UAE and Bahrain.
$1 trillion China–GCC opportunity waiting to be unlocked: report
Tue, 11 Nov 2025
China’s affluent outbound audiences across tourism, investment and luxury sectors offer a $1 trillion opportunity for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to tap into the market, says a new report.
Starhotels Collezione concludes events in Saudi, UAE
Tue, 11 Nov 2025
Starhotels Collezione, Italy’s luxury hotel group, recently held several events in the GCC, including a Sales Conclave in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and exclusive Media and Partners Evenings in Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Dammam Global City project first phase to open this month
Sat, 08 Nov 2025
The Eastern Province Mayoralty, in collaboration with a Thai investor, is set to launch the first phase of the Dammam Global City project by the end of November, a news report said.