25% growth in GCC travel to Europe

STM Tours has been catering to the personalised travel services of the clientele from GCC region over the past few years. The company specialises in fixed departure tours for groups and individuals travelling from the GCC, the Middle East, and the USA to Central Europe. Maher Azizia, Managing Director, STM Tours, shares details in an interview with TRAVTALK.

TT Bureau

Tell us about STM Tours and its main activities.

STM Tours LLC is a leading travel company specialising in fixed departure tours for groups and individuals travelling from the GCC, the Middle East, and the USA to Central Europe. Our main focus is on offering tailored travel experiences to some of Europe’s most iconic destinations, including Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Italy, Spain, and the Netherlands. With over 30-year experience in the industry, our mission is to deliver high-quality, hassle-free trips that combine the best of culture, history, and leisure. We pride ourselves on providing personalised services, ensuring that each traveller gets a memorable experience.

What are the key markets or areas you focus on?

Our primary focus markets are the GCC and the broader Middle East region, as well as the USA. These areas are key due to their strong demand for unique European travel experiences. Our tours mainly target families, leisure travellers, and business professionals seeking well-organised, curated tours of Europe. Central Europe, particularly Germany and Switzerland, is our most popular region due to its cultural richness, scenic beauty, and accessibility from the GCC and the USA. We have built strong relationships with local partners to ensure our clients receive top-notch services throughout their journeys.

Could you share the importance of the GCC market?

The GCC market is of utmost importance to us. The growing affluence and enthusiasm for outbound travel among residents of the GCC region make it one of our most vital segments. GCC travellers tend to favour high-quality, luxury experiences and are often looking for exclusive, comfortable, and memorable holiday packages. The demand for tailored tours that combine cultural, historical, and leisure experiences has grown significantly. We make sure to cater to the specific preferences of GCC travellers, including halal-friendly services, private tours, and accommodations that align with their expectations.

How is outbound travel from the GCC to Europe? Have you seen a rise in terms of visitors from the GCC?

Yes, there has been a noticeable rise in outbound travel from the GCC to Europe, particularly to destinations like Germany and Switzerland. The easing of travel restrictions post-pandemic, coupled with an increasing desire for international travel experiences, has contributed to this rise. The GCC market is evolving, with travellers seeking more than just luxury—there is a strong interest in cultural and historical experiences. We have observed this shift, and as a result, more GCC travellers are opting for destinations in Europe that offer a rich blend of both. While exact numbers are proprietary, I can share that our bookings from the GCC market have grown by approximately 25 per cent over the past year. This upward trend is a testament to the growing interest in European destinations from the region, with Germany, Switzerland, and Italy leading the way as the most popular destinations among our clients.