Published on
January 3, 2026
Saudi Arabia Beats UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, Kuwait, and Several Other Nations to Lead Qatar Tourism Surge and Drive Record Growth in 2025. This remarkable shift is largely due to Saudi Arabia’s increasing dominance as the top source of international visitors to Qatar, surpassing traditional regional giants like the UAE and Egypt. In 2025, Saudi Arabia’s proximity, cultural ties, and booming travel demand played a pivotal role in fueling Qatar’s tourism growth, with more visitors from the kingdom flocking to experience Qatar’s world-class events, luxury offerings, and cultural landmarks. As Saudi Arabia continues to outpace other nations in visitor numbers, it highlights the growing importance of regional connections in shaping Qatar’s tourism success.
Qatar, with its unmatched ability to blend modernity with rich cultural heritage, has truly solidified its position as a leading tourism destination in 2025. This success comes on the back of numerous efforts to bolster tourism infrastructure, promote luxury and wellness tourism, and offer an extensive range of cultural and entertainment events. One of the major catalysts for this growth has been the strategic rise of Saudi Arabia as Qatar’s top source market, beating out regional giants like the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, Kuwait, and several other nations. Here’s how this landmark achievement unfolded, with a focus on the growth trajectory and the countries that have fueled Qatar’s tourism success.
Saudi Arabia Emerges as the Leading Contributor to Qatar’s Tourism Boom
For years, Saudi Arabia has been a significant player in the Middle Eastern travel market, but 2025 has seen its influence reach unprecedented heights. Saudi Arabia has now firmly established itself as Qatar’s leading source of international visitors, playing a pivotal role in the country’s tourism boom. This year, Saudi travelers accounted for an overwhelming share of Qatar’s inbound tourists, surpassing the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, and others. In fact, Saudi Arabia’s contribution to Qatar’s tourism sector is estimated to have surpassed 25% of all international visitors by mid‑year, continuing a steady upward trend seen over the past few years.
Qatar’s proximity to Saudi Arabia has played a key role in facilitating this growth, with a large number of Saudi nationals taking advantage of short travel distances and easier access to the country’s top attractions. Visitors from Saudi Arabia have flocked to Qatar’s iconic attractions, including the Museum of Islamic Art, the Doha Corniche, and the newly developed Lusail City. Qatar’s tourism sector has benefited from the demand for both cultural experiences and leisure travel. This includes attendance at major events such as the Qatar International Food Festival, the Qatar Airways Golf Open, and other high-profile sports tournaments, festivals, and exhibitions, which have been perfectly timed to coincide with Saudi holidays and weekends.
UAE Follows as a Strong Contributor, but Saudi Arabia Leads the Charge
The UAE has historically been one of Qatar’s largest source markets, and 2025 has been no different, with the Emiratis showing a strong presence in Qatar’s tourism numbers. However, Saudi Arabia’s rise to the top spot has meant the UAE’s contribution has slightly diminished, although it remains a critical feeder market. The UAE accounted for approximately 20% of all international arrivals in 2025, making it the second-largest source for visitors after Saudi Arabia. Travelers from Dubai and Abu Dhabi have frequented Qatar’s luxury shopping malls, high-end hotels, and renowned restaurants, further elevating Qatar’s reputation as a luxury destination in the region.
One key factor contributing to the UAE’s importance is the close business ties between the two countries, especially in sectors like tourism, retail, and hospitality. Furthermore, cultural exchange and events like the Doha Film Institute’s Cinema Series have attracted many UAE nationals looking to explore Qatar’s burgeoning arts and entertainment scene.
Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, and Kuwait: Important Regional Players
While Saudi Arabia and the UAE have dominated the influx of visitors, countries like Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, and Kuwait have also made substantial contributions to Qatar’s tourism boom. These countries account for the remaining share of international tourists, enriching Qatar’s tourism experience with diversity in visitors’ interests and backgrounds.
Egypt
Egypt, with its long-standing ties to Qatar and the shared Arab heritage, has maintained a steady flow of visitors to Qatar. Egyptians make up a significant portion of the workforce in Qatar, and many take advantage of the country’s proximity to visit during holidays. In 2025, Egypt was among the top countries contributing to Qatar’s tourism growth, particularly during cultural events like the Qatar National Day celebrations. Many Egyptian visitors are drawn to Qatar’s rich history, arts, and culture, and they have contributed significantly to local tourism, particularly in the fields of heritage tourism.
Bahrain
Bahrain remains a vital player in the GCC tourism landscape. Visitors from Bahrain are known for their affinity for Qatar’s luxury retail experiences, fine dining, and high-end leisure activities. Qatar’s financial district and business hubs have attracted professionals from Bahrain, who often visit for business purposes. Additionally, Bahrainis are frequent attendees of major sporting events like the Qatar Grand Prix and FIFA World Cup qualifiers, adding to the overall tourism numbers.
Iran
Iran, while facing political challenges in the region, continues to send tourists to Qatar, particularly in the arts and cultural tourisSaudi Arabia Beats UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, Kuwait, And Several Other Nations To Secure The Leading Spot In Qatar Tourism With Record-Breaking Growthm segments. Iranians are often drawn to Qatar’s museums, art galleries, and cultural festivals, which showcase the country’s growing reputation as a center for cultural exchange in the Middle East. Despite regional tensions, the Iran-Qatar tourism corridor remains resilient, with many Iranians opting to travel to Qatar for leisure and educational purposes.
Oman
Oman has been another steady contributor to Qatar’s tourism industry. Omanis, like their neighbors in the GCC, are frequent visitors to Qatar, especially during long weekends and national holidays. Qatar’s strategic location as a gateway between Asia, Africa, and Europe has made it an attractive stopover for Omanis traveling to other parts of the world. Omani visitors are also inclined toward eco-tourism and wellness tourism in Qatar, where wellness resorts like the Banana Island Resort and the Four Seasons Hotel offer rejuvenating experiences.
Kuwait
Kuwait has been a consistent source of tourists for Qatar, especially in the high-end and luxury tourism sectors. Kuwaiti nationals are known for their love for luxury shopping, fine dining, and exclusive events. Qatar’s growing hospitality scene, with the opening of new luxury hotels, shopping malls, and resorts, has made the country an attractive destination for Kuwaiti tourists looking for luxury and high-end experiences.
Qatar’s Tourism Focus on Sustainable Growth and Wellness
Qatar has placed sustainability and wellness tourism at the heart of its tourism strategy, reflecting global trends where eco-conscious and health-conscious travelers are increasingly choosing destinations that offer luxury with a conscience. The massive QR20bn Simaisma coastal project is a shining example of Qatar’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism. The coastal development will preserve Qatar’s natural landscapes while creating an immersive, luxurious tourism experience that appeals to high-value visitors seeking green and sustainable travel options.
In addition, Qatar’s increasing focus on wellness tourism and luxury resorts will continue to drive growth in the coming years. With world-class spa services, health retreats, and holistic treatments, Qatar is positioning itself as a leading wellness destination in the region, attracting affluent travelers from around the world.
The Future of Qatar’s Tourism: Expanding Regional and International Connectivity
Looking ahead, Qatar aims to expand its regional and international connectivity, strengthening its position as a hub for both leisure and business travel. The country’s airline network, led by Qatar Airways, continues to grow, with new routes connecting Qatar to Europe, North America, and beyond. This will not only help attract tourists but will also increase Qatar’s global tourism footprint.
Qatar’s development of new tourism routes and partnerships with airlines will make it even more accessible for travelers from key markets such as Europe, North America, and the Middle East. The planned GCC Tourism Capital status for Doha in 2026 will further enhance Qatar’s position as a key player in the region’s tourism landscape, attracting more international tourists and encouraging cross-border tourism.
Tourism Infrastructure and Smart Technologies Paving the Way
Qatar has been heavily investing in tourism infrastructure and smart technologies to create an innovative tourism experience. Smart tourism systems and digital innovations in hospitality are transforming how visitors engage with Qatar’s tourism offerings. The development of modern transport networks, including metro systems and intercity travel routes, is making it easier for tourists to explore the country and enjoy seamless travel experiences.
As Qatar looks to its 2030 tourism strategy, the focus on luxury tourism, eco-conscious travel, and technologically advanced services will continue to reshape the tourism sector. Qatar remains committed to sustainably developing tourism products, expanding the tourism market, and attracting high-paying, high-value travelers to support long-term growth.
Saudi Arabia Beats UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, Kuwait, and Several Other Nations to Lead Qatar Tourism Surge and Drive Record Growth in 2025. This dominance is driven by Saudi Arabia’s increasing role as Qatar’s top source of international visitors, capitalizing on proximity, cultural ties, and a growing interest in luxury and cultural tourism.
Qatar’s tourism industry has truly taken flight in 2025, with Saudi Arabia leading the charge as the dominant source of visitors. The influx of travelers from regional markets like the UAE, Egypt, Bahrain, Iran, Oman, and Kuwait continues to bolster Qatar’s standing as a regional tourism leader. With a strong focus on sustainability, wellness tourism, and innovative infrastructure, Qatar’s future in tourism looks even brighter. As the country prepares to host GCC Tourism Capital status in 2026, Qatar is set to become an even more compelling destination for high-value visitors and eco-conscious travelers from around the world.
