DUBAI: The UAE’s tourism sector is showing impressive growth in both international tourist arrivals and hotel bookings, aligning with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031. This strategy aims to attract AED100 billion in tourism investments and boost the sector’s GDP contribution to AED450 billion by 2031.
In 2023, tourism contributed 11.7 percent to the UAE’s GDP, amounting to AED220 billion. This figure is expected to increase to 12 percent or AED236 billion in 2024, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). The WTTC also projects that by 2034, travel and tourism will contribute around AED275.2 billion to the UAE’s GDP. This growth is supported by the country’s world-class infrastructure, including airports, accommodations, and exciting tourist attractions.
Dubai reported welcoming 10.62 million tourists in the first seven months of 2024, marking an 8 percent year-on-year increase. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi’s hotels hosted over 2.87 million guests in the first half of 2024, generating AED3.6 billion, a 19.5 percent growth compared to the previous year.
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These achievements reflect the effectiveness of the UAE’s sustainable tourism policies, its robust infrastructure, diverse tourist destinations, and its commitment to continuous development under the National Tourism Strategy 2031. The ongoing success of these initiatives is a testament to the UAE’s dedication to enhancing its tourism sector and its broader economic impact.
