The German National Tourist Office Gulf Countries (GNTO GCC) has reported a significant rise in the number of overnight stays by visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, reaching 1.2 million in 2025, a 9% increase from 2022. This announcement was made at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
Yamina Sofo, Director of the Marketing & Sales Office at GNTO GCC, highlighted the steady growth in visitor numbers and spending from the GCC, noting that travellers from the region spent a total of $3.2 billion (€3 billion) in 2025, over 30% more than the average expenditure of other overseas visitors. Despite disruptions to air traffic in early 2026, Germany remains the third-strongest overseas market for GCC travellers.
Munich Airport is enhancing its facilities to cater to Middle Eastern travellers with the opening of a new Terminal 1 Pier, designed to accommodate up to six million additional passengers. This development aims to strengthen connectivity between Germany and the GCC, with 15 airlines currently linking Munich to 15 destinations across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
Germany's tourism campaigns for 2026–2027 will focus on sustainable travel, urban culture, and gastronomy, alongside cultural events such as the 150th anniversary of the Wagner Festival. These initiatives aim to position Germany as a premier destination for GCC visitors, offering diverse experiences year-round.
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