Big-ticket events expected to drive GCC tourism market to US$827M by 2029, experts highlight at ATM 2025

MIDDLE EAST – Big-ticket events have played a pivotal role in driving international tourism and accelerating economic growth, with the GCC event and exhibition market projected to reach US$827 million by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 3.94%, experts revealed at Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025.

These impressive figures underline the increasing significance of large-scale events in shaping regional tourism dynamics.

Following the global success of mega-events like the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and Expo 2020 Dubai, the momentum is gaining pace as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the 2034 World Cup.

Such international events have proven capable of attracting millions of visitors, boosting hotel occupancy, enhancing infrastructure development, and elevating brand positioning for host destinations.

At ATM 2025, leading industry figures including H.E. Khalid Jassim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority; Sebastien Doussin, Senior Vice President of Global Travel Services & Destination Management at Dnata; and Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), shared key insights into the transformative influence of big-ticket events.

The panel highlighted that beyond immediate economic gains, these events foster long-term tourism growth and stimulate diverse sectors such as retail, transportation, and hospitality.

They also generate significant employment and reinforce destination reputations globally.

Big-ticket events are distinguished by their high costs and extensive impact, demanding meticulous planning and substantial investment.

Nonetheless, the enduring benefits, including infrastructure improvements and enhanced international visibility, typically outweigh initial outlays.

Experts also stressed the importance of leveraging these events to build sustainable tourism ecosystems, encouraging innovation and cultural exchange while driving future investment.

With Saudi Arabia’s upcoming 2034 FIFA World Cup, the GCC is poised to capitalize further on the increasing global appeal of major sporting and cultural spectacles.

This strategy aligns seamlessly with regional efforts to diversify economies and deepen global connectivity.

As the event sector continues to expand, the figures presented at ATM 2025 confirm that big-ticket events will remain critical catalysts for economic development and tourism growth across the GCC in the years ahead.

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