Tourism sectors likely to remain a laggard

The recent rise in COVID-19 cases in the region adds to reasons to think that a recovery in tourism is some way off. Governments across the world seem, in any case, appear increasingly reluctant to open up to international travel amid fears of importing virus variants. Within MENA, Saudi Arabia has stated that those attending the Hajj this year (in July) must be vaccinated. Strong vaccine rollouts in the UAE and Morocco mean that they could stand to benefit if they are able to establish travel corridors with other countries. But, in general, international tourism is likely to remain well-below normal levels for much of this year, holding back economic recoveries.