Gulf states shift major events abroad and boost domestic tourism
Gulf nations are relocating flagship events to foreign venues and emphasizing domestic tourism to counter a 30% drop in international arrivals in May 2026. The shift is already underway and affects event organizers, travelers and hospitality providers across the GCC.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Major events are being moved to overseas locations and domestic tourism is being promoted
- Timing
- Changes are being implemented throughout 2026 as events are rescheduled
- Who is affected
- Event attendees, tourism operators and airlines in the GCC
The details
Event Relocations Across the Gulf
Organisers have moved several high‑profile gatherings to other countries to preserve contracts and maintain revenue streams. Saudi Arabia’s Esports World Cup, originally slated for Riyadh in 2026, will now be held in Paris. Bahrain’s Grand Prix, scheduled for 10‑12 April at the Bahrain International Circuit, has been shifted to Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit in October.
- Tickets remain sold through official channels despite venue changes
- Partner brands such as Saudi Telecom Company retain naming rights
Domestic Tourism Initiatives
With international visitor numbers down 30% compared with May 2025, Gulf governments are turning to local travelers. Dubai introduced a US$400 million stimulus, eliminated nightly hotel taxes and city taxes on restaurant bills. Bahrain’s Tourism & Exhibitions Authority now allows fee deferrals for the first quarter.
- Oman reported a 60% rise in Eid al‑Fitr hotel bookings, 70% of which came from neighboring Gulf states
- GCC officials discuss a unified tourist visa to ease intra‑regional travel
Aviation and Airline Response
Airlines initially halted flights to Gulf capitals after early attacks on airports. As risks have lessened, carriers operate at roughly 90% capacity and have resumed many routes. Emirates signed seven new tourism deals, while AirAsia X postponed its Bahrain hub launch to the first quarter of 2027.
- King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh suffered an October attack, extending its closure
- Kuwait airport was attacked in June, leading to a shorter shutdown
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Travelers with tickets to the Saudi Esports World Cup should check new venue details for Paris
- Bahrain Grand Prix attendees must adjust travel dates to October and arrange flights to Malaysia
Cost and documents
- No new visa fees are mentioned for domestic travel within the GCC
- Airline ticket prices may vary due to route adjustments but no specific surcharge is noted
What you need to do
- Event participants should verify updated entry requirements for the new host countries
- Tourists planning GCC trips should monitor local tax exemptions and stimulus offers for potential savings
Who this affects
-
International event attendees
Key sporting and entertainment events have been relocated abroad
What to do Check revised venue information and adjust travel arrangements accordingly
-
Domestic tourists within the GCC
Governments are promoting local travel through tax cuts and stimulus packages
What to do Take advantage of reduced hotel and restaurant taxes when booking stays
-
Airlines operating in the Gulf
Air carriers are adapting capacity and routes after airport attacks and event shifts
What to do Monitor schedule changes and capacity updates for flights to and from GCC hubs
Frequently asked questions
Why are Gulf events being moved to other countries?
The Gulf states are relocating events to maintain contractual obligations and protect revenue after a 30% drop in international tourists, as reported for May 2026.
Which major events have been moved this year?
Saudi Arabia’s Esports World Cup is now set for Paris, and Bahrain’s Grand Prix has been shifted to Malaysia’s Sepang Circuit in October.
What tax changes have Dubai introduced for tourists?
Dubai has removed the nightly hotel tax and the city tax on hotel and restaurant bills as part of a US$400 million stimulus package.
How has airline capacity changed in the Gulf?
Gulf airlines are operating at about 90% capacity after earlier suspensions caused by airport attacks, with Emirates signing new tourism deals.
Is a new GCC tourist visa being introduced?
GCC officials have mentioned that a unified tourist visa for the six Gulf countries is expected to be introduced soon, though no specific date is given.
