Riyadh | BETH
22 Shawwal 1447 AH | Corresponding to 10 April 2026

Tourism ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) affirmed that Gulf destinations will remain safe and attractive to global travelers despite current regional developments. They emphasized the sector’s operational continuity and resilience, supported by advanced infrastructure and coordinated response plans to address any potential challenges.

Overview

The statement followed an extraordinary virtual meeting held on 7 April 2026 to assess the potential impact of regional developments on the tourism sector across GCC member states.

The ministers strongly condemned the Iranian attacks targeting civilian infrastructure, including ports, airports, energy facilities, desalination plants, residential and commercial areas, as well as tourism establishments such as hotels. They described these actions as violations of national sovereignty and clear breaches of international law and the United Nations Charter.

They also called on Iran to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2817, which demands the immediate and unconditional cessation of any aggression or threats against neighboring countries. Additionally, they welcomed the unanimous resolution issued by the United Nations Human Rights Council (A/HRC/RES/61/1), which expressed support for GCC member states.

The ministers affirmed that the GCC tourism sector continues to operate efficiently, benefiting from highly developed infrastructure and integrated service systems. Tourist destinations across the region remain open and continue to welcome visitors, reflecting the sector’s strong preparedness and operational stability.

They stressed that visitor safety remains a top priority and that relevant authorities possess the capability to effectively manage evolving situations, drawing on extensive experience in handling geopolitical, economic, and public health crises.

Furthermore, the ministers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting and safeguarding tourism investments and projects from any potential adverse impacts. They also announced the continuation of joint tourism initiatives and programs, alongside enhanced cooperation and integration among GCC tourism authorities to ensure sustainable growth.

The meeting underscored the importance of coordinated efforts and the development of joint rapid response plans to address any developments that may affect the Gulf tourism sector.

BETH Analysis

The extraordinary meeting conveys a strong reassurance message to global tourism markets and investors, emphasizing that security and operational stability across GCC countries remain intact despite regional tensions. It also highlights the high level of Gulf coordination in crisis management and reinforces confidence in the sustainability of the tourism sector as a key pillar of economic diversification.

The unified GCC position confirms that current regional developments will not alter the developmental trajectory of the tourism sector. Instead, they underscore its resilience and adaptability, further strengthening the GCC’s standing as a reliable and attractive tourism destination on both regional and international levels.