Manama: Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council, actively participated in an extraordinary meeting of the Committee of the Ministers of Tourism of the GCC countries, which was conducted via video conference. The meeting was presided over by Fatima Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Bahrain, who is currently leading the session, with the presence of Tourism Ministers from various GCC nations.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Albudaiwi emphasized that the growing challenges facing the GCC nations are not merely temporary issues but rather a significant test of their capacity to protect achievements and maintain the efficiency and stability of crucial sectors. He highlighted the importance of the meeting, noting that it occurs at a pivotal time when the GCC countries face threats from Iranian aggression. This situation, he pointed out, demands a shift from standard coordination to a more practical integration and effective response, especially since the tourism sector plays a vital role in achieving economic sustainability.
Albudaiwi stated that the current geopolitical developments have impacted the tourism sector, affecting travel movements, the pace of tourism activities, and market stability. He stressed the need for enhanced coordination, integration, and joint efforts to ensure the sector's sustainable growth, safeguard its achievements, and improve its ability to tackle future challenges.
During the meeting, Albudaiwi shared statistics from the GCC Statistical Center for 2024, which indicated that GCC countries welcomed over 72 million tourists, generating nearly USD 120 billion in revenue. However, due to the ongoing regional tensions, a decline in tourist numbers is anticipated, with potential losses in tourism revenues estimated between USD 13 and USD 32 billion.
The GCC Secretary-General expressed confidence in the region's ability to overcome crises and challenges, supported by strong ties and effective integration across various domains. This approach, he stated, has enhanced the GCC's ability to manage challenges, maintain stability, and ensure the continued efficiency of vital sectors, showcasing the strength and effectiveness of joint Gulf action under different circumstances.
Albudaiwi concluded that the meeting demonstrates a deep understanding of the challenges, as it involves discussing the current situation, evaluating its implications on tourism, and working collectively to develop strategies for the short and long term. These strategies include restoring tourism momentum, enhancing sustainability, unifying media messages, and adopting joint initiatives to rebuild confidence in tourism markets, reinforcing the region's status as a safe and attractive destination.