The German National Tourist Office GCC (GNTO GCC) has reported a continued rise in visitor numbers from the Gulf region. In 2024, a total of 489,689 GCC travellers visited Germany — marking a 1.2% increase from the previous year and a 21% surge compared to 2022.
The update was shared at a press conference during the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2025 in Dubai.
Consistent travel demand
Yamina Sofo, Director at GNTO GCC, described the trend as a strong sign of Germany’s renewed appeal among Gulf tourists following the pandemic.
“We have now witnessed considerable growth in visitor numbers from the GCC countries since the end of the pandemic. These figures underscore Germany’s increasing post pandemic popularity with GCC visitors and bodes well for 2025,” said Sofo.
She added, “With direct flights from the GCC countries to Munich, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, Berlin, Hannover, Stuttgart, Cologne and Hamburg, this year we want to encourage GCC residents to visit Germany and experience our diverse year-round tourism offering.”
Lufthansa partnership strengthens
As part of its regional outreach, GNTO GCC has partnered with Lufthansa Group Airlines, which continues to expand its footprint in the GCC.
Luis Monreal, Senior Director Sales Middle East, Lufthansa Group Airlines, said: “Lufthansa Group is proud to team up this year with the DZT as their official carrier. We connect the GCC with Germany nonstop since 1960 with its flights to Saudi Arabia.”
He highlighted Lufthansa’s stable year-round service and the growth of Eurowings, its value carrier, which now offers flights from Dubai World, Abu Dhabi, and Jeddah to destinations like Berlin, Stuttgart, Cologne, and Hanover.
“The strong increase in demand for these new routes show that we cater to the need to reach different cities in all parts of Germany,” Monreal said. “Starting from October 2025, the Lufthansa Group airlines will offer over 120 connections per week between the GCC and Germany.”
Culture and nature
GNTO also unveiled a number of new campaigns for 2025 aimed at showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Cultureland Germany highlights Germany’s vibrant cultural scene. This includes Chemnitz, European Capital of Culture 2025, and the 275th anniversary of Johann Sebastian Bach’s death, which will be commemorated with events across the country.
Embrace German Nature focuses on Germany’s extensive natural offerings—three UNESCO natural world heritage sites, 16 biosphere reserves, and 104 nature parks accessible via hiking and cycling trails.
Simply Feel Good promotes sustainable travel, featuring 1,540 certified eco-accommodations, 350 health resorts, and 20 certified green destinations.
Germany’s famous Fairy Tale Route celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2025. The 600-km route links 70 locations tied to beloved fairy tales, including Rapunzel’s tower and Sleeping Beauty’s castle.
Tech meets tourism
The tourism board is also spotlighting its digital innovation through #EmmaTravelsGermany, an AI-powered virtual guide offering smart travel recommendations and storytelling, aimed at a tech-savvy generation.
Germany’s presence at ATM 2025 is its largest yet, with 27 co-exhibitors occupying 135 square metres at Europe Hall, Stand EU5150. The event runs from 28 April to 1 May at Dubai World Trade Centre.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
