DUBAI: Dubai welcomed 9.31 million international visitors from January to June 2024, a 9% increase from the 8.55 million tourists in the first half of 2023. This data, published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), shows that Dubai’s tourism sector is thriving. In 2023, the city hosted 17.15 million international visitors, and this year’s growth suggests another record-breaking year in 2024.
The increase in tourists aligns with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aimed at making Dubai a top global destination for both business and leisure. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister, has guided this vision, supported by the efforts of DET and local stakeholders.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, highlighted that Dubai’s tourism sector continues to grow robustly, attracting more global travellers. This growth demonstrates Dubai’s strength and appeal as a world-class city. He encouraged industry partners to expand collaborations and explore new opportunities to enhance the visitor experience.
Dubai’s strong tourism growth in the first half of 2024 shows the city’s ability to build effective public-private partnerships. The city has also gained international recognition, being named the No.1 global destination for three consecutive years by the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards. Additionally, Dubai won several regional awards, including the Middle East’s leading destination.
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His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, emphasized that the increase in visitors reflects the leadership’s vision to make Dubai the best city to visit, live, and work in. This success is due to a diversified market approach, strong partnerships, and liberal visa policies. Looking ahead, Dubai aims to continue this positive trend and enhance the tourism sector’s contribution to the city’s economy.
In the first half of 2024, key markets like the GCC, MENA, Western Europe, and South Asia contributed significantly to the visitor numbers. Dubai’s hotel sector also performed well, with high occupancy rates and several new high-profile hotel openings. The city remains committed to providing exceptional services and a wide range of accommodation options for visitors.
