Dubai welcomes nearly 10 million global visitors in 2025
Dubai's tourism sector has shown impressive growth, with 9.88 million international visitors recorded in the first half of 2025, a significant achievement that underscores the city's growing prominence on the global tourism map. Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed highlighted this milestone, attributing the success to the leadership and vision of Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid.
This surge in visitor numbers aligns with the ambitions outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, a strategic plan aiming to position the emirate among the world's top three tourism destinations. Under this agenda, Dubai seeks to expand its appeal, diversify its tourism offerings, and enhance its global standing, with a clear goal of fostering sustained growth in the sector. The half-year figures reflect strong international interest and robust demand for Dubai's varied tourism attractions, spanning luxury shopping, iconic architecture, and cultural experiences.
ADVERTISEMENT
The Dubai government's commitment to the tourism sector has been evident in a series of high-profile initiatives and investments designed to enhance the city's appeal. From the development of world-class infrastructure to hosting global events such as Expo 2020 and numerous international conferences, Dubai has positioned itself as a key player in the competitive global tourism market. The city's tourism recovery, which began after the pandemic, has been swift, drawing millions from across the globe, particularly from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
A significant driver of Dubai's tourism growth is its extensive air connectivity, facilitated by Dubai International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world. DXB has consistently served as a global hub for international travel, with Emirates airline offering seamless connections to key markets. The airport's strategic location and connectivity have been instrumental in attracting a steady flow of travellers, particularly from Europe and Asia, who increasingly view Dubai as a prime destination for both business and leisure.
Dubai's luxury sector, including five-star hotels and upscale shopping malls, has continued to thrive, attracting affluent tourists seeking high-end experiences. The city's offerings have evolved, with a growing emphasis on experiential travel, which includes culinary tourism, wellness retreats, and adventure tourism. The government's continued investment in cultural infrastructure, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Museum of the Future, enhances Dubai's appeal to cultural tourists, complementing its already robust retail and entertainment scenes.
Dubai's rise in the global tourism ranks is not merely the result of external factors, but the active cultivation of a highly attractive destination. The city is known for its safety, cleanliness, and well-organised tourism offerings, with services ranging from luxury experiences to budget-friendly options catering to diverse traveller needs. As tourism numbers continue to rise, Dubai is expected to further strengthen its position as a hub for international events, exhibitions, and conferences.
In line with its long-term goals, Dubai has introduced several initiatives aimed at increasing tourism numbers, such as the Dubai Tourism Strategy 2025, which includes a broader approach to tourism marketing. The strategy focuses on creating innovative marketing campaigns, expanding the city's digital presence, and engaging with emerging travel trends such as eco-tourism and sustainable travel.
The city's strategic location, combining Eastern and Western influences, has further cemented Dubai's appeal as a cultural melting pot, drawing people from all corners of the world. Notable growth has been observed from markets in Asia, particularly China and India, with Dubai becoming an increasingly important destination for affluent travellers looking for luxury, leisure, and business opportunities in a safe and accessible environment.
Dubai's status as a global financial and business centre has also contributed to the rise in international visits, particularly among business executives and entrepreneurs attending conferences and exhibitions. The emirate's commitment to enhancing its business tourism infrastructure, including the expansion of its conference venues and the hosting of high-profile business events, is expected to contribute further to the sector's growth.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
11 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Emirati woman of determination secures job through government programme, finds hope
For years, Hawraa Al Ali, 28, dreamed of becoming a lawyer, but her ambitions were put on hold after she was unable to enrol at university. Al Ali has a physical disability and speech difficulties from facing an oxygen deficiency at birth. 'I've been using a wheelchair since I was a child,' she said. 'I studied at a normal school, finished high school, but wasn't able to continue to university because of my condition.' What followed were years of frustration and longing. Ray of hope 'Before, I only used to eat and sleep,' she said. 'What made a difference for me after taking part in Atmah is that now I am doing something important with my life.' Al Ali is among more than 55 Emiratis with disabilities who have landed jobs through Atmah, an inclusive employment programme launched by the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, in partnership with Zayed Higher Organization and social enterprise ImInclusive. She first heard about Atmah from ZHO and immediately signed up. 'I applied there and I registered in it, I attended many conferences and workshops and career fairs just to find a job and settle,' she said. She later secured a position in the accounting department at Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi. 'My favourite part about the job is when they give me some figures to double-check, like cross-checking bills,' she said. 'The most challenging part is that I sometimes mis-arrange the order of the figures. I overcame it by getting used to correcting my mistakes, and accepting that I can make mistakes and correct them.' While she still hopes to one day pursue a university degree and achieve her ultimate dream — that of opening her own noodles shop at Global Village — with government support, Al Ali said that having a job she enjoys has already transformed her outlook. 'Thanks to Atmah I managed to find this job,' she said. 'I don't understand why people like me hide themselves — they should have proactive roles in society.' Finding opportunity According to Saira Sayed, project leader of the second edition of Atmah, more than 100 Emiratis with disabilities have completed employability training through the programme since it relaunched in 2024. 'We assess and connect Emirati People of Determination (PoD) in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Al Dhafrah to fair and equitable job opportunities with a pool of willing and inclusive employers,' she said. 'More than 55 Emiratis have already secured jobs through Atmah programme's second edition.' Al Ali was connected to the programme through the TAMM platform and underwent a 12-week up-skilling programme before sitting for multiple interviews. 'She went through several rounds of interviews before securing a job at Dusit Thani, where she presently loves to work,' Sayed said. 'Hawra is a patient and resilient individual who overcame challenges of waiting times, multiple processes of interviews and trusted her skillset of persistence to secure a job she finds suitable.' Dusit Thani, Sayed added, is one of the inclusive employers actively registered with ImInclusive. 'They were open to meeting PoD who had basic digital skills and a strong desire to learn,' she said. 'We shared Hawra's profile, and she was selected based on her coachability and willingness to further improve her skills on the job.' The hotel supported her by offering flexible working hours and responsibilities that match her strengths. 'She completes her responsibilities confidently, adding value to her team,' said Sayed. Riding through life When not at work, Al Ali spends time with friends at parks and malls. She also enjoys colouring, horseriding, and learning languages — having taught herself Turkish through books and Turkish-speaking family friends. 'I also love horse riding — horses are gentle animals and very nice to humans,' she said. 'Horses helped me get rid of a lot of negativity and to adopt a positive attitude.' She has been riding since childhood, often with the aid of her physiotherapist. 'I'm not a horse rider, I just ride as a hobby,' she added Al Ali was also featured in Ma-an's TV series Ahl Al Ataa (people of giving).
Zawya
16 hours ago
- Zawya
Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah Chamber discusses trade exchange with Ugandan ambassador
Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates: His Excellency Mohammed Musabbeh Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, received His Excellency Zaake Wanume Kibedi, Ambassador of the Republic of Uganda to the UAE. The meeting, held at the Chamber's headquarters, was attended by Youssef Mohamed Ismail, First Vice Chairman of the Chamber and Head of the Supreme Committee of the Saud Bin Saqr Establishment for Youth Project Development, and Dr. Ahmed Al Shemeili, Director General of the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce. Discussions focused on strengthening economic relations between the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, with emphasis on promoting trade exchange and enhancing investment cooperation. Both parties reviewed the investment advantages offered in Ras Al Khaimah and the Republic of Uganda, highlighting the importance of unlocking new opportunities across key sectors in both countries. Al Nuaimi stated that the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce always welcomes initiatives that support the private sector in exploring useful and profitable investment opportunities in many friendly countries around the world, bringing mutual benefits and shared interests. He pointed out that Uganda is one of the African countries connected to the business environment of the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah through several business partnerships and agreements. He also noted the importance of increasing partnerships in the small and medium enterprises sector, which will enhance investment opportunities for the private sector and the overall business environment. His Excellency Ambassador. Zaake Wanume Kibedi expressed his pleasure at meeting with the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce, particularly as it is the official body responsible for organizing private sector affairs in the Emirate. He affirmed his country's interest in boosting and expanding trade exchange in a manner that serves the mutual interests of both sides. His Excellency also extended an invitation to the Ras Al Khaimah Chamber of Commerce and its members to attend the UAE–Uganda Business Forum, scheduled to take place from October 27 to 29 in Kampala, Uganda.
Arabian Post
19 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Dubai's Evolving Tourism Landscape Draws Record Visitors
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai's tourism sector is rapidly diversifying, offering much more than the traditional image of luxury shopping and towering skyscrapers. The city is emerging as a unique blend of culture, history, and sustainability, catering to a growing number of travellers seeking immersive experiences alongside high-end offerings. This transformation is shaping the city's identity as a global tourism destination and redefining what it means to travel to Dubai. In 2024, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism reported that the emirate hosted 18.72 million international overnight visitors from January to December, marking a 9% year-over-year increase from 2023's record of 17.15 million. This growth is indicative of a broader shift in the city's appeal, with visitors increasingly drawn to its rich cultural and historical offerings. While Dubai's luxury shopping malls and ultramodern skyscrapers remain major attractions, the city has made significant strides in integrating cultural heritage, sustainability, and immersive experiences into its tourism strategy. ADVERTISEMENT The rise in visitor numbers aligns with Dubai's efforts to diversify its tourism portfolio. Beyond its well-established reputation for opulence, the city is now fostering an environment that invites exploration of its heritage sites, art galleries, and cultural festivals. Dubai's museums, like the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Museum of the Future, are attracting global attention for their architectural innovation and comprehensive exploration of humanity's past and future. The surge in visitors is also a reflection of the city's continued commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Dubai is investing in eco-friendly infrastructure, including green buildings, public transport, and energy-efficient hotels, all of which align with the city's long-term vision of becoming a global leader in sustainability. Initiatives such as the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 aim to reduce the city's carbon footprint and promote the use of renewable energy sources in tourism-related activities. Luxury, however, remains at the heart of Dubai's tourism offering. High-end hotels, resorts, and fine dining experiences continue to draw affluent visitors. Iconic destinations such as the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Marina remain central to the city's tourism model, offering unparalleled luxury experiences. However, Dubai's tourism landscape is diversifying further, providing options for a broader range of travellers, from budget-friendly accommodations to more cultural and eco-conscious experiences. Cultural tourism has emerged as a focal point for growth, with Dubai positioning itself as a crossroads between the East and West. The Dubai Opera, a state-of-the-art venue in Downtown Dubai, regularly hosts international performances, from opera and ballet to contemporary music. The Dubai Arts and Culture Authority's efforts to promote local art and host international exhibitions have enhanced the city's cultural offering. Moreover, the Dubai International Film Festival and the Dubai Design Week further solidify the emirate's role as a key player in the global cultural scene. Dubai's transformation into a more multifaceted destination is attracting a growing number of visitors from both established and emerging markets. Tourists from Europe, Asia, and Africa are increasingly seeking a deeper connection to the city's heritage and culture, beyond its well-known luxury offerings. With a diversified tourism strategy, Dubai is well-positioned to attract these travellers, offering a range of activities that appeal to a variety of interests. ADVERTISEMENT Dubai's appeal also extends to families, with the city offering family-friendly attractions such as Dubai Parks and Resorts, which includes theme parks like Motiongate Dubai and Legoland Dubai. The emirate's focus on family-oriented experiences is strengthening its position as a year-round destination, attracting tourists from across the globe who seek a blend of entertainment, culture, and relaxation. The Dubai Expo 2020, although postponed to 2021 due to the pandemic, played a significant role in the city's tourism resurgence. The event highlighted Dubai's potential to host large-scale international events, showcasing the city's modern infrastructure and its ability to welcome diverse cultures. It also set the stage for long-term growth in cultural and eco-tourism by bringing together innovators, thinkers, and influencers from around the world. The city's ongoing expansion of public and private sector collaborations is bolstering Dubai's appeal as a hub for business tourism. International conferences, expos, and corporate events have become a significant part of the city's tourism strategy. Dubai's state-of-the-art conference venues, such as the Dubai World Trade Centre, offer cutting-edge facilities that make the city a prime destination for business travellers.
