GCC chief warns that tourism losses across six Gulf member countries could hit US$32 billion due to Iran conflict
Summary
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) secretary-general, Jasem Albudaiwi, has warned that the US-Israeli war with Iran could cut tourist arrivals to the six GCC states by 8–19 million visitors, producing revenue losses estimated between US$13 billion and US$32 billion.
The six countries — the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain — welcomed over 72 million tourists in 2024 and generated almost US$120 billion in tourism revenue. Albudaiwi made the remarks at an extraordinary meeting of GCC tourism ministers and said Iranian aggression has unsettled travel patterns, market stability and sector activity. The World Travel and Tourism Council has also estimated Middle East losses at around US$600 million per day in international visitor spending because of the conflict.
Despite the warning, Albudaiwi expressed confidence in the region’s long-term ability to recover. The UAE continues investing in major projects — for example, construction on the Wynn Al Marjan Island integrated resort has resumed after a brief pause tied to the conflict.
Key Points
- GCC secretary-general warns tourism revenue could fall by US$13–32 billion due to the Iran-related conflict.
- Projected drop in tourist arrivals across the six GCC states is between 8 and 19 million visitors.
- GCC countries hosted over 72 million tourists in 2024, generating nearly US$120 billion.
- WTTC estimates the Middle East is losing about US$600 million per day in international visitor spending because of the conflict.
- Officials signalled resilience and continued investment in flagship projects, with construction on Wynn Al Marjan Island resuming.
Why should I read this?
If you care about Gulf travel, investment or hospitality — this is a proper heads-up. Big projects, jobs and revenues are on the line if tourist flows stall. Read this to spot near-term risks and why regional recovery plans will matter for markets and operators.
Author style
Punchy: This isn’t a small blip — the figures are headline-sized and matter for governments, hoteliers and investors. If you work in or monitor the Gulf’s tourism or leisure sectors, the details here are worth your time.
Context and Relevance
The warning underlines how geopolitical conflicts can quickly spill into travel demand and economic performance for tourism-dependent economies. The GCC has been actively diversifying and investing in large tourism and entertainment projects; prolonged instability could delay recovery, affect employment and alter investment timelines across the region.
For investors, operators and policy makers the story signals elevated downside risk to forecasts for 2026, and underlines the value of contingency planning and stimulus measures to shore up the sector.