The GCC ecotourism market is growing substantially owing to increasing environment protection and conservation efforts in GCC nations. Ecotourism involves travelling responsibly to natural areas while conserving the environment and enhancing well-being of local people. It helps in environment protection and biological diversity by promoting awareness about ecological principles and establishing financial incentives and alternative livelihoods for local communities. Ecotourism has become an attractive concept that offers environmentally friendly leisure and recreation activities like hiking, camping, wildlife viewing and adventure tourism.
The Global GCC Ecotourism Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 590.99 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 3.3% over the forecast period 2024 To 2031.
Key Takeways
Key players operating in the GCC ecotourism are Hotels (Ramada Worldwide, Jumeirah, and Le Meridien), Airlines (Emirates, Qatar, and Gulf air), and Tour Travel Operators (Thomas Cook). Ecotourism is gaining popularity rapidly in the region owing to increasing environmental awareness and growing interest of tourists towards unique natural attractions and indigenous culture of GCC nations. The GCC countries are expanding ecotourism globally by developing sustainable infrastructure and promoting eco-friendly tourism destinations to attract international travelers.
Market drivers
The key driver for the growth of GCC Ecotourism Market Size is the focus of GCC governments on establishing protected natural areas and national parks. Various countries have enacted laws and implemented policies to conserve biodiversity and promote ecotourism. For example, the UAE government launched the 'Ecotourism in Protected Areas Project' with an aim to enhance environmental protection and community development around natural reserves. Growing expenditure on eco-friendly infra projects and enabling policy framework will continue to drive the GCC ecotourism market during the forecast period.
Impact of geopolitical situation on Gcc Ecotourism Market growth
The GCC ecotourism market growth is highly dependent on the geopolitical stability and relations within the GCC countries and other regions. Currently, geopolitical issues like rising tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran, political differences between some GCC countries and Qatar are adversely impacting travel and tourism within the region. Growing security concerns due to threats of terrorism are dissuading travelers from some parts of the region. However, efforts to resolve diplomatic issues and improve security are expected to boost intraregional travel and cooperation.
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