In 2024, the UAE’s tourism sector is projected to generate AED 236 billion ($64.2 billion), representing 12% of the nation’s GDP. Hotel revenues reached AED 33.5 billion ($9.1 billion) during the first nine months of the year, reflecting a 4% growth compared to the same period in 2023. This growth aligns with the goals of the “UAE Tourism Strategy 2031.”
According to the World Economic Forum’s 2024 Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI), the UAE ranked first in the region and 18th globally. The country excels in travel data provision and air transport infrastructure, ranking second worldwide for infrastructure and services, and third for air transport efficiency, travel policies, and tourism infrastructure.
High Hotel Occupancy Rates
The average hotel occupancy rate across the UAE’s seven emirates reached 77.8%, one of the highest globally. Hotel stays totaled 75.5 million nights from January to September 2024, reflecting an 8% increase from the previous year.
Passenger Growth at Airports
By the end of September, airports in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah handled over 103 million passengers. The General Civil Aviation Authority forecasts passenger numbers to reach 150 million by the end of the year.
Launch of the National Tourism Charter
The UAE unveiled the “National Tourism Charter,” a key initiative under the “UAE Tourism Strategy 2031.” This initiative seeks to drive sustainable growth, enhance Emiratisation in the tourism sector, and create job opportunities for UAE nationals through collaboration with various organizations.
Boosting Global Competitiveness
The charter aims to strengthen the UAE’s position as a leading global tourism hub by fostering cooperation among the emirates, further enhancing competitiveness on the regional and international stage.
Focus on Sustainable Tourism
The UAE also launched the fifth edition of the “World’s Coolest Winter Campaign,” themed ‘Green Tourism.’ In collaboration with the Ministry of Economy and the National Agricultural Centre, the campaign promotes sustainable agriculture and encourages tourism to farms and agricultural sites across the country.
