The German National Tourist Office (GNTO) Gulf Countries recently held its annual Roadshow in Dubai, welcoming prominent partners from Germany's tourism and hospitality sectors. 

 

This year’s event, held at the residence of Sybille Pfaff, the German Consul General in Dubai, included participants such as hotels, regional tourism boards, airports, and shopping outlets. Among the new participants were Adina Apartment Hotels, Dresden Marketing GmbH, and the iconic Meissen Porcelain Manufactory, making their first appearances at the GNTO Roadshow.

 

In her welcoming remarks, Consul General Pfaff shared her personal experiences exploring Germany over the summer, recounting the diversity and cultural richness her country has to offer visitors.

 

Yamina Sofo, Director for the Gulf Countries at the GNTO, highlighted Germany's longstanding reputation as a premier destination, particularly well-suited to the preferences of Muslim travellers. 

 

“Germany has something for everyone,” Sofo noted. “From vibrant cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt to the picturesque countryside, forests, lakesides, beaches, and islands where car-free options allow for truly relaxing vacations.”

 

She presented key statistics underscoring Germany's appeal and accessibility to Gulf tourists, citing over 207 weekly flights from the GCC to major German cities in 2023, offered by 11 airlines, including Lufthansa and Eurowings. Despite a slight decrease from pre-pandemic levels, flight connectivity is expected to continue growing.

 

Notable insights from the event included:

* Global Recognition: Germany ranked second in the 2023 Global Nation Brand Index, reflecting its strong international reputation.

* GCC Market Strength: The GCC ranks as Germany’s third-largest overseas market after the USA and China, with Gulf travelers spending €2.6 billion in 2023 — a 24% increase from the previous year. The average spend per GCC visitor reached €4,447 per trip, the highest among all overseas markets.

* Top Destinations: Bavaria, including Munich, remains the most popular German destination for GCC visitors, followed by Hesse (home to Frankfurt) and North Rhine-Westphalia, known for cities like Cologne and Düsseldorf.

Looking ahead, Germany’s 2025 tourism campaign will focus on Culture and Nature, with an ongoing emphasis on sustainability under the “Simply Feel Good” initiative.

 

Partner Highlights:

Adina Hotels: Making its debut at the GNTO’s GCC roadshow, Adina Hotels introduced its portfolio of 18 hotels and apartments that cater to GCC visitors with versatile one-, two-, and three-bedroom configurations. These accommodations are ideal for families, offering interconnected options that create a spacious, home-like environment.

 

Visit Berlin: This year, Visit Berlin put a spotlight on medical tourism, presenting their new Medical Tourism Guide, now available in six languages. 

 

OutletCity Metzingen: Known as a shopping haven, OutletCity Metzingen highlighted its recent additions, including the newly opened Hugo Boss Museum, which joins its lineup of over 170 premium and luxury brands. The outlet also offers exclusive private shopping experiences.

 

Munich: Already a favourite destination among GCC travellers, Munich updated attendees on the recent opening of the luxury Koenigshof Hotel, part of the Marriott Luxury Collection, located near the historic entrance to the Old Town. 

 

Dresden: Joining the roadshow for the first time, Dresden Tourism showcased the city’s architectural beauty and historical charm. Known for its easy accessibility from major German hubs like Frankfurt, Dresden offers a compelling mix of art, culture, and history. 

 

Located just a short 30-minute journey from Dresden, the renowned Meissen Porcelain Manufactory also made its debut at the roadshow, displaying an array of exquisite porcelain pieces. Guests were introduced to their newly launched group tours, which allow visitors to explore behind the scenes and even try their hand at crafting a porcelain piece.

 

Lufthansa Group: Representing Germany’s national carrier, Lufthansa Group highlighted its extensive GCC network, offering seamless connections to Germany and beyond. The airline also showcased its new Lufthansa Allegris service, featuring a First-Class Suite option for travel partners, as well as a revamped Business Class experience providing enhanced privacy and comfort on Munich-bound routes. - TradeArabia News Service