In recent years, the Middle East has experienced a striking surge in tourism. According to the United Nations World Tourism Organization, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt have led this growth. The figures show that in 2025 Saudi Arabia attracted more than 30 million foreign tourists, the UAE over 21 million, and Egypt 19 million. These numbers not only reflect the success of these countries in drawing visitors, but also indicate that the Middle East is on track to become one of the world’s major tourism centers.
By prioritizing the development of transport infrastructure, luxury hospitality, and modern urban projects, the three countries have set new benchmarks in international tourism. Saudi Arabia, through its Vision 2030 program, has focused on economic diversification and the expansion of both religious and leisure tourism. Egypt has reinforced its position by restoring historical sites and developing new coastal destinations. The UAE, meanwhile, continues to offer a blend of innovation, luxury, and world-class infrastructure through Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Path of Progress in the Tourism Industry
The region’s tourism success owes much to its extensive air transport network. Emirates and Etihad Airways, serving more than 150 and 85 destinations respectively, have made access to Dubai and Abu Dhabi easier while providing tourists with a luxurious yet cost-effective travel experience. Through their stopover programs, these airlines have played a strategic role in turning the UAE into a “two-in-one” destination.
The Middle East’s hospitality sector has become a global symbol of luxury and hospitality. From the Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm in the UAE to Egypt’s seaside resorts and Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea resorts, the region offers diverse, high-end experiences that appeal to travelers with a wide range of tastes. Saudi Arabia’s decision to ease visa issuance, speed up entry for foreign visitors, and attract Hajj and Umrah pilgrims has been another key driver of its tourism growth. Direct air links from New York, London, Paris, Sydney, and Hong Kong to these three countries play a vital role in strengthening international tourism.
By strengthening cultural, historical, and leisure tourism, the Middle East can expand its share of the global tourism market. Developing sustainable and luxury tourism, attracting foreign investment, and enhancing the region’s brand as a global tourism hub are among the key opportunities ahead. Competition with other emerging tourism centers in Asia and Europe, managing environmental sustainability and infrastructure, and ensuring security and positive visitor experiences are the main strategic challenges, all of which require careful planning and coordination among countries.
West Asia now stands on the threshold of cementing its position as a global tourism hub. By focusing on infrastructure investment, regulatory facilitation, the development of cultural and luxury experiences, and the strengthening of air transport networks, countries can ensure a path of sustainable tourism growth. Regional cooperation and leveraging luxury airline and hotel brands can transform the Middle East into an unforgettable destination and a new pillar of global tourism.
While Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt are rapidly solidifying their status as tourism hubs, Iran—despite its exceptionally rich cultural and historical heritage, diverse natural attractions, and prime geographic location—has not yet been able to tap into its enormous tourism capacity. Weak infrastructure, visa-issuance challenges, limited global promotion, and constraints in tourism services have kept Iran’s share of the regional tourism market below its true potential. Strategic tourism development, targeted investment in hospitality and transportation, and the promotion of lesser-known attractions could turn Iran into one of the Middle East’s major tourism hubs.
NOURNEWS