Gulf Cooperation Council Set to Seize $2 Trillion Slice of Global Sports Tourism by 2030: PwC Insights
A recent report by PwC Middle East outlines the GCC's potential to transform sporting achievements into a long-term economic generator.
Gulf Cooperation Council Set to Seize $2 Trillion Slice of Global Sports Tourism by 2030: PwC Insights
A recent study by PwC Middle East titled Game On for the GCC – Turning Sporting Ambition into Lasting Tourism Impact highlights how the GCC can leverage its successes in hosting major sporting events to foster economic development.
The report emphasizes the need for the region to evolve into experience-driven tourist destinations to enhance its global appeal.
Key Highlights:
- The GCC aims to capture a portion of the $2 trillion global sports tourism market by 2030.
- High-profile sporting events such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and various Formula 1 races have boosted the region’s international reputation.
- It stresses the importance of developing tourism experiences that encourage repeat visits throughout the year.
- Globally, the sports tourism sector contributes 10% to total tourism spending, expected to grow at 17.5% annually.
- The Middle East’s broader sports industry has a value of $600 billion, growing at nearly 9% per year.
- Achievements from the upcoming years, including a boost in Saudi Arabia’s sports market forecasted to reach $22.4 billion by 2030.
The report outlines three main priorities for the GCC:
- Create integrated sports destinations that mix sports with retail, leisure, and culture for extended visitor stays.
- Increase fan engagement using digital tools and storytelling to convert visitors into avid tourists.
- Foster a cohesive regional sports tourism network that facilitates travel and marketing across nations.
Peter Daire, Senior Executive Adviser at PwC Middle East, stated:
“The GCC has already shown it can host the world’s biggest events. The next step is to turn that success into lasting impact, building destinations that attract fans year-round through richer experiences.”
The findings are particularly pertinent with over 60% of the regional population under the age of 35, suggesting a significant opportunity for tech-driven sports tourism initiatives.
By transitioning from merely hosting to crafting engaging experiences, the GCC aims to become a vibrant hub for sports tourism, motivating fans, athletes, and travelers to visit again.
