Abstract

Oil prices have been highly volatile in the last decade. In the light of a peaking of conventional oil resources and increasing commitment on climate action and decarbonisation, Middle Eastern oil-exporting countries are increasingly seeking to diversify away from fossil fuels and into tourism. Whilst this provides some short-term benefit, the long-term realities are more complex. Discussing the relative importance of both inbound and outbound tourism and the opportunities these bring for Middle Eastern economies, this chapter also examines the importance of oil-export dollars for social stability and existing power structures. The key question for the region in their preparation for a post-fossil fuel world is then not only one of tourism’s very own dependence on fossil fuels, but how to introduce political reforms, targeted education and integration programmes to facilitate economic and social prosperity, and help reconcile opposing social groups.