Gulf Neighbors Seek to Emulate Dubai's Tourism and Aviation Success

Dubai has invested heavily in tourism and aviation, positioning itself as a major global destination. Its Gulf neighbors now seek to emulate this success as they diversify their economies away from oil.

Saudi Arabia aims to attract 100-150 million visitors by 2030 through tourism, but faces challenges in branding and infrastructure compared to Dubai's 25-year head start.

Qatar takes a more niche approach to tourism, not wanting to replicate Dubai's "hedonistic" reputation.

Competition is fierce between Gulf airlines like Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihad, known for luxury offerings, as Saudi plans a new carrier, Riyadh Air.

Saudi Arabia's tourism vision depends on the success of ambitious projects like the future city Neom and Riyadh Air's fleet and network plans.