The Gulf States, India and China are fuelling a tourism revolution in Greece which sees the country undergoing a dramatic transformation as a surge of high-spending tourists from those countries shatter the traditional seasonal tourism model, turning former off-season lulls into periods of unprecedented growth.

Affluent travelers from Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia are driving a luxury tourism boom, filling high-end hotels and upscale boutiques beyond the typical summer months. Direct flights to Mykonos and Santorini have surged, with Saudi seat capacity alone jumping 40% in 2025. The islands, once quiet by autumn, now buzz with activity well into October, as private villas, gourmet restaurants, and yacht charters cater to Gulf visitors seeking extended escapes.

India’s Love Affair with Greece

Indian tourists are arriving in record numbers, with demand up 18% compared to pre-pandemic levels. Unlike traditional European visitors, Indians travel year-round—flocking to Greece in May-June, late summer, and even winter—drawn by its history, coastal beauty, and uncrowded charm. Greece’s national airline is fast-tracking direct India flights, aiming to capitalize on this booming market and turn shoulder seasons into major revenue drivers.

China’s Off-Season Resurgence

Chinese tourism has not only rebounded but exceeded pre-COVID levels, with 138,600 arrivals in 2024—a 30% increase over 2019. Three major Chinese airlines now operate 12+ weekly flights to Athens, ensuring a steady flow of visitors exploring Greece’s ancient sites and luxury shopping districts even in winter.

“Greece is no longer a summer-only destination,” says a tourism official. “We’re seeing 12-month demand from markets that value culture, luxury, and flexibility.”

With over 100 million Indians expected to travel abroad by 2030 and Gulf nations prioritizing Greece as a top escape, the country’s shift to year-round tourism is just beginning. The off-season, once a challenge, is now a golden opportunity—and Greece is ready.