Germany sees GCC visitor growth in 2024

TDT| Dubai

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Germany recorded strong growth in visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries in 2024, with a 1.2 percent year-on-year increase and a 21 percent jump compared to 2022, officials announced during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai.

The German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC) revealed that over 489,000 GCC nationals visited Germany last year, contributing to more than 1.2 million overnight stays. Direct flights linking GCC cities to major German hubs like Munich, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Berlin, and Hamburg have played a significant role in making Germany more accessible to regional travellers.

Yamina Sofo, Director at GNTO GCC, said Germany’s appeal to Gulf visitors continues to grow thanks to its cultural diversity, natural attractions, and enhanced connectivity. “Germany has witnessed considerable growth from the GCC region post-pandemic, and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors in 2025,” she said.

Strengthening this trend, Lufthansa Group Airlines announced an expansion of its services to Germany, with over 120 direct connections per week from the GCC set to begin in October 2025. Lufthansa’s Senior Director of Sales for the Middle East, Luis Monreal, noted that increased demand has led to new routes through airlines like Eurowings, offering more direct flights from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah to German cities beyond Frankfurt and Munich. Germany is also stepping up its tourism campaigns this year. Cultural attractions are in the spotlight under the ‘Cultureland Germany’ initiative, featuring destinations such as Chemnitz, the European Capital of Culture for 2025. In parallel, the ‘Embrace German Nature’ campaign promotes the country’s UNESCO-protected natural reserves and scenic hiking trails, while the ‘Simply Feel Good’ campaign focuses on sustainable travel options, highlighting Germany’s 20 sustainably certified regions and cities.

Celebrations also mark the 50th anniversary of the German Fairy Tale Route, a 600-kilometre scenic trail connecting around 70 locations tied to famous fairy tales such as Rapunzel and Sleeping Beauty.

Additionally, Germany’s digital push was unveiled with ‘Emma’, an AI-powered travel companion designed to guide visitors and enhance their experience through personalised digital interaction.

Germany’s increased presence at ATM this year includes 27 co-exhibitors occupying 135 square metres, reflecting the country’s growing efforts to attract more Middle East travellers.