Germany Strengthens GCC Ties: What €2.3bn Gulf Traveller Spending Means for Business Opportunities in 2024

Germany Boosts GCC Engagement

The German National Tourist Board (GNTB) is ramping up its efforts in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, viewing it as a vital overseas tourism market. GCC outbound travel hit 20.6 million trips in 2024, exceeding pre-pandemic levels and signaling robust growth ahead. GNTB marked 20 years of operations there with a press event in Dubai.

Key Spending and Market Stats

GCC travelers spent €2.3 billion in Germany in 2024, making it the third-largest overseas market. Visitor satisfaction stands high at a 74% repeat rate, fueled by cultural sites, family attractions, medical tourism, nature, and luxury shopping. Retail accounts for nearly half of their spending, reflecting strong buying power.

“Our commitment to the GCC is stronger than ever. This market values quality, comfort, cultural exploration, and personalised service.”
— Petra Hedorfer, CEO of GNTB

Strategic Initiatives and Future Plans

From its Dubai office, GNTB covers UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, ranking Germany fourth among European spots for GCC visitors. Since 2005, partnerships have tripled overnight stays, aided by tools like the Germany Halal Travel Guide and Arabic support. Ahead, GNTB eyes 2026 with more marketing, roadshows, Arabian Travel Market presence, and Gen Z social campaigns.

Author's summary: GNTB deepens GCC ties amid €2.3bn 2024 spending, leveraging high repeat visits and luxury preferences to boost business in tourism, retail, and halal services—key for Omani firms eyeing partnerships. (148 characters)

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Omanet.com Omanet.com — 2025-11-28

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