Recent research by Arabian Travel Market (ATM) reveals that Generation X,
born between 1965 and 1980 (44 to 59 years old), is spearheading the
remarkable growth in outbound travel from the Gulf Cooperation Council
(GCC) countries.
The study, conducted by Research Nester, indicates that the GCC
outbound market is poised to surge in the next five years, with the UAE
and Saudi Arabia leading the pack with values of US$30.5 billion and
US$27 billion, respectively, by 2028.
Gen X is projected to contribute significantly to the outbound market
values, accounting for 41% (US$11.1 billion) in Saudi Arabia and 60%
(US$18.2 billion) in the UAE by 2028. This shift is reshaping travel
preferences, with Saudi tourists favouring Europe, while other popular
destinations for GCC travellers include the UK, Germany, Italy,
Switzerland, the US, India, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and South
Africa.
Danielle Curtis, exhibition director of ATM, attributes Gen X's
dominance in the GCC's outbound market to their senior positions within
companies, frequent business trips, high earning potential, and
disposable income. As this generation seeks a more sustainable work-life
balance, the trend of combining business with leisure travel, known as
‘bleisure’, is gaining momentum.