DUBAI: Czechia is emerging as one of Europe’s fastest-growing travel destinations, with new data showing an 18% year-on-year increase in bookings and growing interest from travellers across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
According to the Travel Insights 2026: Focus on Europe report by Amadeus Travel Intelligence and UN Tourism, Czechia recorded the highest booking growth among Europe’s leading destinations, ahead of Iceland and Denmark. The destination’s growing popularity was also highlighted by Euronews.
The latest figures are strengthening Czechia’s appeal among GCC travellers seeking European holidays combining cultural experiences, wellness, nature, gastronomy, shopping and family-friendly activities.
Prague remains a major gateway for visitors, offering historic architecture, cultural attractions, riverside experiences, shopping and gastronomy. Beyond the capital, destinations including Karlovy Vary, Český Krumlov, South Moravia and Bohemian Switzerland offer opportunities for wellness retreats, heritage tourism, scenic journeys and outdoor activities.
Czechia ranked fifth among the most-booked destinations in Central and Eastern Europe and fourth among the most-searched destinations in the region during the period from May 2025 to April 2026.
The report also showed that Czechia recorded 31% growth in searches and 9% growth in bookings among the region’s top 30 destinations, making it the leading destination for growth in both categories.
Barbara Andelová, International Marketing Manager at CzechTourism, said the recognition reflected growing international demand for authentic and experience-rich travel.
She said Czechia offered GCC travellers a combination of cultural heritage, city experiences, wellness, nature, gastronomy, shopping and regional discovery, while its diverse attractions made it suitable for both short breaks and longer holidays.
Czechia is also expanding its appeal among GCC travellers through halal-friendly dining options. Prague offers a range of halal restaurants and Middle Eastern, Turkish and Lebanese dining establishments, including Safa Restaurant, Hummus Bar, Layla Restaurant, Mangal Restaurant and K The Two Brothers.
The country’s family-friendly attractions, premium shopping, spa experiences and historic destinations further add to its appeal for GCC visitors.
The growing demand for Czechia also reflects wider changes in European travel preferences, with travellers increasingly exploring destinations beyond traditional tourism hubs and seeking culturally rich cities, nature-based experiences and distinctive regional attractions.
The Amadeus and UN Tourism report found that travellers aged 46 to 65 account for around 30% of visitors across Europe, creating opportunities for Czechia to attract premium and mature travellers through cultural packages, luxury accommodation, wellness holidays, escorted tours and multi-generational travel.
With rising international demand and a broad range of experiences available throughout the year, Czechia is positioning itself as an attractive European destination for GCC travellers seeking cultural discovery, wellness, nature, family holidays and premium travel experiences.
