Fast Forward: Is the Region Primed to Be a Global Tourism Hub by 2035? ( 2/2)

( Part 2 )

Entertainment and culture

As we look forward to 2035, I can proudly say that the GCC is poised to redefine itself as a global hub for unforgettable experiences, particularly in family-friendly entertainment. Our region's commitment to this vision is driving monumental changes, making it a magnet for travellers seeking world-class attractions, cultural marvels, and family entertainment.

In the UAE, we take pride in saying that we are home to some of the top world-class theme parks and attractions. From awesome worlds of action at Ferrari World and Warner Bros. on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, to the aquatic wonders of Yas Waterworld and the world’s largest indoor marine-life theme Park, SeaWorld, and not forgetting the gravity-defying thrills at CLYMB, we're creating an array of experiences that rival the best on the global stage. Dubai, of course, adds to this tapestry with Atlantis Aquaventure, IMG World of Adventure, and the vibrant Global Village, each offering a unique slice of entertainment and adventure.

Saudi Arabia is also heavily investing in entertainment destinations. Alongside ambitious projects like Qiddiya Entertainment City, set to become the largest entertainment destination in the region, with its world-class theme parks, including a Six Flags Park and a water park, the kingdom is also developing futuristic attractions like the groundbreaking linear city of future, The Line by Neom, in addition to the The Mukaab, a mega-project that will act as the centrepiece to the New Murabba project. Adding to these, let’s not forget “The Rig,” the world’s first tourism destination on an offshore oil platform, celebrating Saudi Arabia’s oil and gas legacy.

The rise of MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism further accentuates our trajectory towards global recognition. Across the UAE, destinations like Yas Island and Saadiyat Island are becoming magnets for international conferences and exhibitions, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. The success of Expo 2020 Dubai, with over 24 million visits, stands as a testament to our ability to host world-class events that captivate and inspire.

Cultural tourism plays a vital role in boosting the contribution of culture and arts to GDP. Architectural projects like Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, and Dubai Museum of the future, along with upcoming attractions like the Natural History Museum provide visitors with insights into the region's diverse history and cultural fabric. AlUla, Saudi Arabia's premier destination for leisure and cultural tourism, aims to welcome 2 million visitors and create 40,500 job opportunities by 2035. Kuwait and Oman’s Opera Houses also stand as a prominent cultural landmark in the GCC, attracting tourists with their architectural grandeur and diverse artistic performances.

The region is also attracting global Intellectual Properties globally, which is clearly evident in the influx of Japanese IPs like the upcoming Dragon theme park in Saudi Arabia, and the immersive digital art experiences like teamLab borderless in Jeddah and the upcoming teamLab Phenomena in Abu Dhabi.

Sports as a catalyst

Sports and Esports are pivotal in driving the tourism sector across the GCC. t's not just about the games; it's about the transformative impact they have on our region's global visibility and economic growth.

Take UAE for instance, we proudly host several international sporting events such as the NBA, UFC, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix – which also takes place in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Bahrain, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. These events are not just about competition, they're about showcasing our capabilities as a premier destination for sports tourism.

Qatar’s legacy of the FIFA World Cup continues to resonate positively across the GCC. Ahead of the event, hotel occupancy rates soared to an impressive 85%. In 2023, the rates remained steadily above 55%, and Doha’s Hamad International Airport handled just over 20 million passengers. Not to mention, Qatar also saw a significant 31% increase in tourism's contribution to its GDP, demonstrating the profound economic impact of hosting global sporting events.

By successfully obtaining the rights to host the World Cup in 2034 and planning to host events such as the WWE, Saudi Arabia is also making waves as a prime destination for major sporting events. Moreover, the recruitment of renowned players like Cristiano Ronaldo by local football club Al-Nassr underscores the GCC's focus on leveraging sports as a catalyst for global visibility and tourism expansion.

Looking ahead, I can undoubtedly say that the GCC’s inspired approach towards pursuing ambitious visions and embracing innovative strategies will pave the way to emerge as a leading global tourism hub by 2035. Beyond building infrastructure or hosting global events, the region's leaders are promoting a new way of thinking and pioneering the charge toward a vibrant and sustainable future.

All these measures bring us ever closer to the world of 2035, in which the GCC countries will have fulfilled their visions and have started shaping new ones. I see a region where a visitor can take the train from Abu Dhabi to Riyadh to enjoy a day at Qiddiya, where visitors from every nation will be stimulated by the museums of Saadiyat Cultural District, and where the busy, buzzing airports are the best in the world.

I believe in the future success of 2035 not because it is a vision, but because across the GCC we are doing so much today to build this world of tomorrow. We are also actively building a future, where I can see the GCC including over 750 airport gates and welcoming an estimated 600 million visitors by 2035. Imagine a scenario, where there are more than 15 international airlines, based right here in the GCC, working together to facilitate the journeys of millions of passengers traveling to, from, and within our region. This is the future we are creating, one filled with opportunity and prosperity.

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?Mohamed