3.6 mn overnight stays by GCC to Germany

GCC market has been increasing their number travelling to Germany year on year. This year the German National Tourist Board (GNTB) launched its global campaign celebrating the famous Beethoven’s 250th birth anniversary. Nermin Abushnaf – Communications Manager – GNTO, Gulf countries shares with the importance of the GCC market and their initiatives for the year.

How was 2019 for GNTO in terms of traffic from the Gulf region?
The GCC travelling audience is of major importance for the German tourism industry and the local hospitality industry is very well-equipped to cater to visitors from the region. According to the latest forecast from the GNTB, the Gulf region showed greatest growth among overseas market and GCC nationals visiting Germany are expected to increase to 3.6 mn overnight stays by 2030, compared with 1.8 mn guest nights from Gulf nationals recorded in 2018 with key markets being UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.

What is the theme for this year to attract travellers from the GCC?
GNTB launched in 2020 its worldwide campaign ‘Discover Beethoven’ and initiated numerous activities to market this important event on a cultural tourism level. In addition, further global campaigns are launched in various markets by GNTB featuring ‘German Summer Cities’, showcasing the country’s diverse summer activities as well as ‘Wanderlust Germany’ as a top destination for adventures. Moreover, GNTO launching ‘Destination Germany’ with its different angles including nature, sightseeing, entertainment, culture, shopping as well as health, recreation and wellness to the GCC nationals.

Are there any specific areas in Germany being promoted this year?
The aim for GNTO for the Gulf region is to promote ‘Germany as a year-round travel destination’ for the GCC nationals as well as inspire travellers to explore the diversity of the country. Germany has great cities from Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Cologne to the breath-taking natural landscapes of the North Sea Coast.

Could you share any other plans and initiatives for this year to attract the travellers from the Middle East with a focus on the Gen X, millennials, etc.?
The Millennials and the Generation Z in the Gulf region are more adventurous and keener to explore the lesser known parts of Germany. Furthermore, sustainable experiences have become essential for them when travelling and we are proud to offer cultural landscapes in unspoiled nature, environmental-friendly transportation links throughout the
entire country.