Speaking at a recent press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai, the Minister emphasized the untapped potential of GCC visitors, citing their increasing interest in Caribbean experiences, higher-than-average spending patterns, and tendency toward longer stays. The review will focus on simplifying visa application processes for visitors from the region.
“I have been in discussion with our Ministers of National Security and Foreign Affairs to look at more seamless ways for visa facilitation as we recognize the significant economic potential of visitors from the GCC region,” said the Minister during the announcement at a press conference at Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. “By removing unnecessary barriers to travel, we are sending a clear message that our country welcomes GCC visitors with open arms.”
Currently, visitors from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can get a visa on arrival, but changes to this arrangement could increase the numbers from the GCC and generate substantial revenue for Jamaica’s tourism sector.
“The GCC is the new frontier for Jamaica as we seek to diversify our source markets.”
“Simplifying this visa arrangement will make it easier for their visitors to seriously consider Jamaica as a vacation option and allow us to tap into this lucrative market,” added Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett.
Jamaica saw a 29% increase in visitor arrivals from the GCC in 2024. The UAE led with a 37.3% year-on-year growth, followed by strong performances from Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Qatar.
“We are already seeing an uptick in interest from the region, and we are working assiduously with our tour operators and other partners to provide various packages and experiences for visitors from the region,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism.
Minister Bartlett led a small delegation at Arabian Travel Market being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from April 28 to May 1. It is one of the leading global travel and tourism events, bringing together industry professionals and government representatives from across the world.
JAMAICA TOURIST BOARD
The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB), founded in 1955, is Jamaica’s national tourism agency based in the capital city of Kingston. JTB offices are also located in Montego Bay, Miami, Toronto and London. Representative offices are in Berlin, Barcelona, Rome, Amsterdam, Mumbai, Tokyo and Paris.
Jamaica is home to some of the world’s best accommodations, attractions and service providers that continue to receive prominent global recognition. In 2025, TripAdvisor® ranked Jamaica as the #13 Best Honeymoon Destination, #11 Best Culinary Destination, and #24 Best Cultural Destination in the World. In 2024, Jamaica was declared ‘World’s Leading Cruise Destination’ and ‘World’s Leading Family Destination’ for the fifth consecutive year by the World Travel Awards, which also named the JTB the ‘Caribbean’s Leading Tourist Board’ for the 17th consecutive year.
Jamaica earned six Travvy Awards, including a gold for ‘Best Travel Agent Academy Program’ and silver for ‘Best Culinary Destination – Caribbean’ and ‘Best Tourism Board – Caribbean’. The destination also received bronze recognition for ‘Best Destination – Caribbean’, ‘Best Wedding Destination – Caribbean’, and ‘Best Honeymoon Destination – Caribbean’. Additionally, Jamaica received a TravelAge West WAVE award for ‘International Tourism Board Providing the Best Travel Advisor Support’ for a record-setting 12th time.
For details on upcoming special events, attractions and accommodations in Jamaica go to the JTB’s Website at visitjamaica.com or call the Jamaica Tourist Board at 1-800-JAMAICA (1-800-526-2422). Follow the JTB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. View the JTB blog at visitjamaica.com/blog/.
SEEN IN MAIN IMAGE: Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett, presents a destination update with the media during a press conference at Arabian Travel Market on Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
