The ministers responsible for tourism in the Gulf Cooperation Council states held an extraordinary meeting via videoconference on April 7 to monitor the latest developments in the region and review their potential implications for the tourism sector across member states.
They reiterated their condemnation, in the strongest possible terms, of the unjustified and illegal Iranian aggressions that have deliberately targeted civilian infrastructure, including ports, airports, energy facilities, desalination plants, residential and commercial areas, and tourism facilities such as hotels.
They stressed that these actions represent a clear violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of GCC member states, as well as a flagrant breach of international law and the UN Charter.
The ministers called on Iran to comply with its obligations under UN Security Council Resolution 2817, which explicitly demands that Iran immediately and unconditionally cease any aggression or threats toward neighboring countries. They also lauded the unanimous adoption of UN Human Rights Council Resolution A/HRC/RES/61/1 and its supportive positions regarding the GCC states.
The ministers underscored the commitment of GCC states to the security of the Arabian Gulf countries, maintaining that these states will remain safe and attractive destinations for global tourism. Under the constant guidance and follow-up of their leaderships, the GCC states are proceeding with the development of the Gulf tourism sector as a pillar of sustainable economies, and a vital channel for economic prosperity and community development.
They emphasized that the GCC tourism sector continues its operations, supported by advanced infrastructure, high operational efficiency, and a service ecosystem capable of maintaining performance and stability.
The ministers clarified that a number of tourism destinations in GCC member states continue to welcome visitors, and that facilities and services associated with the tourism sector are operating according to approved operational frameworks, reflecting the high level of readiness and support enjoyed by the Gulf tourism sector.
The ministers underlined that the Gulf states place the safety of their visitors as a steadfast priority. The competent authorities in the GCC countries continue to perform their roles, confirming their ability to deal efficiently with various variables. They have demonstrated high readiness and a clear capacity to manage situations effectively, reflecting the strength and stability of their regulatory systems.
The ministers affirmed the full commitment of the GCC states to support for tourism investments and projects, and to protect them from any potential negative impacts. They announced the continuation of joint tourism initiatives and programs, enhancing the cooperation and integration between Gulf tourism ministries and authorities to ensure sustainable growth. They also stressed the coordination of efforts, and the development of joint, rapid-response plans for any developments that may affect the Gulf tourism sector.
Stemming from the bonds of brotherhood and the unity of common destiny between the GCC states, the ministers stressed the significance of continued coordination to integrate efforts, support the stability of the tourism sector, and protect its achievements.
This coordination aims to consolidate the position of GCC states as reliable and attractive tourism hubs, ensuring that tourism projects and initiatives proceed according to their approved tracks, reflecting the robustness of the sector, its continued developmental momentum, and investors’ confidence in the Gulf tourism environment.
The ministers pointed out that the qualitative development achieved by the GCC states in the tourism sector — along with their diverse assets, expertise, operational capabilities, flexible regulatory frameworks, and growth drivers — enhances their ability to overcome current challenges and begin a phase of rapid recovery, as well as move forward toward consolidating the position of GCC states on the regional and international tourism map.
They emphasized that the current stage does not alter the tourism sector’s developmental path but rather highlights the strength of its structure and its ability to transition from managing challenges to enhancing leadership and competitiveness.
They further explained that the GCC member states possess reliable expertise in crisis management, drawing on their past successes in dealing with various geopolitical, economic and health-related conditions and events.
This has enabled the development of more flexible and responsive systems and operational mechanisms, contributing to the enhancement of the collective ability of GCC countries to overcome current challenges with confidence and efficiency, as well as consolidating the GCC region’s standing as one capable of adapting to changes and creating opportunities, even in the most difficult of circumstances.
The ministers renewed their commitment to joint action and cooperation to achieve the aims and act in the interests of member states. Those states will continue to activate the provisions of the GCC Tourism Strategy, which contributes to elevating national economies, providing dignified employment opportunities for citizens, and offering distinguished services to tourists and visitors from around the world.
They reaffirmed that Gulf destinations will continue to provide safe and exceptional tourism experiences, underscoring the readiness of the sector to handle current and future variables while maintaining consistent growth.
