Barbados has recorded a notable 31 per cent increase in visitor arrivals from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region in 2024, as luxury-seeking travellers from the Middle East continue to discover the island’s long-haul appeal.
According to the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), the year-on-year growth in arrivals reflects a surge in interest from countries across the GCC—comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE led the charge with a 30 per cent rise in travellers to Barbados, closely followed by Saudi Arabia with a 36 per cent increase. Oman showed the most dramatic growth, registering a 104 per cent spike compared to the previous year.
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This surge highlights the growing preference among GCC residents for culturally immersive, high-end travel experiences in destinations like Barbados, which offers pristine beaches, vibrant local cuisine, and wellness-oriented attractions. The presence of upscale, family-friendly all-inclusive resorts also continues to attract Middle Eastern families seeking quality and convenience.
BTMI CEO Andrea Franklin welcomed the news, stating, “We are incredibly proud to see Barbados striking a chord with discerning travellers from the GCC who seek authenticity, luxury, and enriching experiences. This upward momentum fuels our commitment to deepening strategic investments in the region and amplifying Barbados’ unique appeal on the global stage.”
The appointment of Kyle C. Gittens as BTMI’s Director of Emerging Markets has further signaled the agency’s intent to build on this progress. Gittens emphasized that the GCC region represents strong potential for long-term growth.
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“Travellers from this region are seeking unique, meaningful experiences, and Barbados delivers on that promise—from immersive island culture to unmatched hospitality,” he said. “We are encouraged by the growth and are committed to further strengthening our presence in the market.”
BTMI’s marketing efforts in the Middle East have included tailored campaigns, travel trade partnerships, and strategic promotions designed to appeal specifically to GCC travel preferences. A key factor in this success has been the BTMI’s partnership with dnata representation services, which has supported marketing, sales, and public relations across the region.
As Barbados continues to expand its global tourism footprint, the GCC has emerged as a strategic priority for future development, with BTMI aiming to build long-term relationships and sustain growth in this high-value market.
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