Middle East tourism spending projected to reach $408 billion by 2030

The Middle East is projected to see a significant surge in tourism, with international visitor spending expected to increase by 57% between 2025 and 2030. According to the ‘ATM Travel Trends 2026’ report, produced by Arabian Travel Market in association with Tourism Economics, spending is forecast to rise by $116 billion, reaching a total of $408 billion by 2030.

By 2030, the region is anticipated to receive 316 million international arrivals. The report highlights that the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia (MENASA) region is a major driver of global growth; in 2025, travel volumes in MENASA were nearly 50% higher than 2019 levels, tripling the global growth rate.

While geopolitical disruptions may impact travel in 2026, experts predict a strong rebound in 2027. Long-haul markets are expected to play an increasingly vital role, particularly China, where leisure nights by Chinese visitors to the Middle East are forecast to increase by 160% by 2030. Dave Goodger of Tourism Economics noted that growth is expected to expand on a structural basis due to rising wealth, favorable demographics, and increased investment in tourism capacity.