- GCC visitor arrivals grew by 1.2% in 2024, marking a 21% increase compared to 2022
- Over 1.2 million overnight stays by GCC travelers recorded in 2024
The German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC) today announced that visitor numbers from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to Germany have continued their steady growth, reaching over 489,689 arrivals in 2024 — a 1.2% increase compared to 2023 and a remarkable 21% surge since 2022.
The announcement was made during a press conference held on the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025.
Yamina Sofo, Director at the German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC), an affiliate of the German National Tourist Board (GNTB), commented:
“We have seen consistent growth in GCC visitor numbers since the end of the pandemic. Germany’s growing popularity among travelers from the Gulf region reflects the country’s strong tourism offering, and the outlook for 2025 is very promising. With direct flights from GCC countries to cities such as Munich, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hannover, Stuttgart, Cologne, and Hamburg, we are encouraging even more visitors to explore Germany’s rich and diverse attractions throughout the year.”
Luis Monreal, Senior Director Sales Middle East at Lufthansa Group Airlines, added:
“The Lufthansa Group is proud to be the official carrier for the GNTB this year. We have maintained nonstop connections between the GCC and Germany since 1960, and today, Lufthansa and Eurowings deliver authentic German hospitality starting from the moment passengers board. With stable, year-round connections from Dubai, Riyadh, and Dammam to Frankfurt and Munich, and with Eurowings expanding routes to Berlin, Stuttgart, Cologne, and Hanover, we are meeting the growing demand for direct travel options. From October 2025, the Lufthansa Group will operate over 120 weekly flights between the GCC and Germany, ensuring broader access and convenience for travelers.”
Booking and travel experiences with the Lufthansa Group are further enhanced by their award-winning mobile apps, providing seamless support throughout the passenger journey.
In addition to expanding connectivity, the German National Tourist Board has launched several new campaigns to attract GCC travellers:
- Cultureland Germany showcases the country’s vibrant cultural scene, featuring art, design, and music. Highlights include Chemnitz, designated as the European Capital of Culture for 2025, and celebrations marking the 275th anniversary of Johann Sebastian Bach’s death.
- Embrace German Nature promotes Germany’s wealth of natural treasures, including three UNESCO Natural World Heritage Sites, 16 biosphere reserves, 16 national parks, and 104 nature parks, all accessible via extensive hiking and cycling routes.
- Simply Feel Good – Sustainable Travel in Germany highlights Germany’s leadership in sustainable tourism, with 20 certified regions and cities, more than 1,540 sustainably certified accommodation providers, and over 350 spa and health resorts.
- The German Fairy Tale Route, celebrating its 50th anniversary, offers travelers a 600 km journey through nearly 70 storybook locations — from Rapunzel’s tower to Sleeping Beauty’s castle.
- #EmmaTravelsGermany, the GNTB’s digital innovation initiative, introduces “Emma,” a cutting-edge AI travel companion that offers interactive and immersive experiences, blending technology and culture to appeal to modern travelers.
Germany’s presence at ATM 2025 is larger than ever, with a 135-square-meter stand in the Europe Hall (Stand EU5150) featuring 27 co-exhibitors and partners. ATM 2025 runs from 28th April to 1st May.
Written by Queen Diana Story