UAE and Saudi score highly in Top 100...

Euromonitor International ranks destinations on multiple factors including safety, economic performance and tourism

In 2024, 11 destinations from the Middle East and Africa featured in the Top 100 Travel City Index by Euromonitor International.

Categories in the ranking include Health and Safety, Economic and Business Performance, and Tourism Performance pillars, which showed the strongest results among the regional cities.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia both dominated the top 10 regional ranking.

Dubai continues to lead with international arrivals on the rise, especially from China, strong hotel occupancy rates and increased focus on cultural and eco-tourism.

Visitors from the Gulf countries drive Doha's success, along with high-profile tourism events and the US$5.5 billion Simaisma Project.

Sharjah and Abu Dhabi excel in the Health and Safety pillar, with Sharjah ranking ahead of Dubai. Favourable business policies, including foreign ownership allowances, tax exemptions and GreenTech incentives, have helped Sharjah and Abu Dhabi secure second place in the Economic and Business Performance pillar. Abu Dabi holds third place in the Index, with plans to invest over US$10 billion in tourism infrastructure by 2030.

Medina is a newcomer this year in the regional ranking ahead of such destinations as Mecca and Marrakech. The city, the second holy destination for Islamic pilgrims, has evolved into a major religious and cultural destination in Saudi Arabia. The launch of the Pilgrim Experience Programme, aimed at enhancing over 100 historical Islamic sites, along with the 'Visit Madinah' electronic platform, are poised to further elevate its appeal.

Nadejda Popova, Global Head of Loyalty at Euromonitor International, said: “Despite positive recovery projections, challenges like labour shortages, geopolitical tensions and a sluggish economy will persist, limiting city growth.

“Less-travelled destinations and third-tier cities are expected to rise in popularity as travellers seek hidden gems, off-season experiences and responsible tourism. Consumers will prioritise culturally enriching, personalised experiences, making them the new travel currency.”

For more information, visit www.euromonitor.com/top-100-city-destinations-index/report

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