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GCC visitors to Germany up 15% on eco-tourism push

By Pramod Kumar
Architecture, Building, Castle GNTO
A view of the Braunfels Castle in Braunfels. The total number of visitors from the GCC reached 1.3 million last year

The number of visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries who visited Germany rose 15 percent year on year in 2023, attracted to the European nation’s cultural and sustainable tourism offerings.

The total number of visitors reached 1.3 million last year, with the fourth quarter hitting a near pre-pandemic activity level with 263,985 overnight stays, reflecting 97 percent of the number achieved in the same period growth in 2019, the German National Tourist Office (GNTO) said in a statement.

“Our growth from the GCC region, our third-largest overseas market, highlights the multifaceted appeal of Germany,” said Yamina Sofo, director of the marketing and sales at GNTO GCC.

The European Championship 2024 is expected to boost the country’s tourism along with more than 300 cultural events themed around football. The championship will be held from June 14 to July 14.

In addition, Germany will focus on its sustainable tourism initiatives under the “Simply Feel Good” campaign this year, which aims to promote the principle of sustainable travel, such as walking, cycling, and canoeing. 

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