UAE and Saudi Arabia Set to Dominate Global Wellness Tourism: How Vision 2030 and UAE Strategy 2031 Are Creating the Ultimate Health Getaways

Published on
January 28, 2026

In the Middle East, wellness tourism is no longer a niche market; it’s a growing force driven by visionary national strategies. The UAE and Saudi Arabia are leading the charge, with both nations investing heavily in wellness travel as part of their long‑term development plans. With Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and AMAALA at the forefront, these destinations are poised to become global hubs for health, luxury, and rejuvenation.

UAE’s Wellness Tourism Growth: A Strategic Move for the Future

The UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 aims to elevate the country’s global standing by focusing on diverse, high‑value tourism segments, with wellness tourism playing a starring role. This strategy, unveiled by the UAE government, sets clear goals for the growth of the tourism sector, specifically targeting markets such as medical tourism, wellness resorts, and holistic experiences. By 2031, the UAE aims to boost its global tourism market share and enhance the sector’s economic impact.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are already global players in the wellness tourism field. World‑class spas, luxury resorts, and fitness retreats are making waves across the country, providing everything from medical wellness to holistic wellbeing services. As the UAE’s wellness economy expands, it continues to attract travelers from all over the globe seeking transformative wellness experiences.

Wellness Tourism as a Key Player in UAE’s Economic Growth

Government reports show that wellness tourism in the UAE is a rapidly expanding sector. The wellness economy now accounts for a significant percentage of the country’s overall tourism revenue. With government support, this market is expected to grow exponentially in the coming years, drawing visitors who are keen on preventive care, fitness regimes, and stress relief experiences.

This strategic focus allows the UAE to attract travelers seeking more than just a traditional vacation. Instead, visitors can indulge in luxury spas, detox programmes, fitness retreats, and healing therapies that are at the core of the country’s wellness offerings. This is not only shaping the UAE’s reputation as a wellness tourism powerhouse but also adding immense value to its national economy.

Saudi Arabia’s Wellness Boom: Vision 2030 Lays the Groundwork

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is transforming the Kingdom into a major global destination for wellness tourism. Central to this vision is the development of wellness destinations like AMAALA, which promises to redefine luxury and health tourism by offering an unparalleled combination of wellness treatments, holistic experiences, and luxury resorts.

AMAALA—located on Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea coast—is a key example of the Kingdom’s push to integrate wellness into its tourism offerings. This luxury development focuses on providing wellness retreats, sustainable living, and transformative health experiences. The resort’s high‑end wellness services, including bespoke medical spa treatments and holistic therapies, will cater to those seeking physical rejuvenation and mental well‑being.

Saudi Vision 2030 is also actively encouraging other wellness developments, integrating wellness tourism into the national fabric. Alongside AMAALA, Saudi Arabia is building new cities and resorts that cater to wellness seekers and position the Kingdom as a global leader in health tourism.

How Wellness Tourism Is Reshaping the Future of Middle East Travel

Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia’s focus on wellness tourism is more than just about attracting high‑spending tourists. It’s about redefining travel experiences and introducing life‑changing journeys. From luxury wellness resorts to transformative spa experiences, these countries are redefining what it means to travel for health and well‑being.

What Makes UAE and Saudi Arabia the Ultimate Wellness Travel Destinations?

• State‑of‑the‑Art Wellness Facilities: Dubai and Abu Dhabi feature world‑renowned spas and fitness centres offering tailored treatments for relaxation and rejuvenation. Saudi Arabia’s AMAALA and other wellness destinations provide exclusive health and wellness facilities designed for complete rejuvenation.
• Luxury Experiences with a Focus on Health: Wellness tourists can experience luxury stays with a strong focus on health and healing, from anti‑aging treatments to holistic therapies. Resorts in both countries emphasize sustainable wellness with organic food, eco‑friendly designs, and wellness‑focused accommodations.
• Cultural and Natural Attractions: Both countries blend modern wellness services with rich cultural offerings, including heritage sites and natural wonders. Saudi Arabia’s Al‑Ula is an example of a place where visitors can enjoy wellness experiences amid ancient ruins and beautiful landscapes.

Wellness Tourism Is the Future for MENA Region’s Travel Industry

In 2025, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is projected to see a significant increase in wellness tourism, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia continuing to lead the way. As more travelers seek vacations that focus on their health and well-being, the demand for wellness tourism will only grow.

Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia are on track to become global hubs for wellness tourism. Their wellness initiatives, luxury wellness resorts, and national tourism strategies are key drivers of this growth. As a result, these countries are positioning themselves at the heart of a global movement toward health‑focused travel.