News

MidEast outbound travel spend to top $60bn

Outbound travel spending by Middle East residents is forecast to grow at an annual rate of 6%, exceeding $60 billion by the end of the decade, according to the latest ATM Travel Trends Report.

The projected rise in overseas travel expenditure is driving increased interest from international exhibitors ahead of Arabian Travel Market 2026, which will take place at Dubai World Trade Centre from 4 to 7 May. Demand for exhibition space is expected to rise by 10% year on year, reflecting strong momentum across global tourism markets.

Overall, the outlook points to sustained growth in outbound travel and rising global engagement with the Middle East as a key driver of future tourism demand.

Gulf Economist Staff Writer