Dubai Welcomes 9.88 Million Visitors in H1 2025, Recording 6% Year-on-Year Growth
The growth highlights the emirate's strong global appeal and the success of public-private partnerships and targeted marketing campaigns.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum praised the achievement as a reflection of Dubai's strategic vision to become a world-leading destination for tourism, trade, and innovation. Western Europe remained the top source market, accounting for 22% of visitors, followed by South Asia, the CIS and Eastern Europe, and the GCC.
The hotel sector also posted strong results, with an 80.6% average occupancy rate and over 22 million occupied room nights. Culinary tourism played a key role, bolstered by Dubai's recognition in the MICHELIN Guide and The World's 50 Best Restaurants, with Trèsind Studio ranked No.27 globally and FZN earning three MICHELIN stars.
Dubai was also named the world's best city for solo female travellers and the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere, affirming its commitment to inclusive and accessible tourism.
As DET continues to drive the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, the city's evolving infrastructure, new hotel openings, global campaigns, and business events position it as a global benchmark for travel, hospitality, and urban excellence.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Business
15 hours ago
- Arabian Business
Explainer: First-Time Home Buyer Programme – What it is and how it works
Dubai has unveiled a new First-Time Home Buyer Initiative aimed at making property ownership more attainable for residents. The programme, launched by the Dubai Land Department (DLD) in collaboration with the Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), offers a range of incentives to help first-time buyers enter the emirate's property market. Here's what the initiative entails, who qualifies, and how to sign up. Dubai launches landmark initiative further enabling first-time homeownership offering aspiring Emirati and expatriate homeowners priority access to new launches, preferential prices, and tailored mortgage solutions. The joint initiative by Dubai Land Department and the Dubai… — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 2, 2025 What is the 'First-Time Home Buyer Programme'? The initiative is a government-backed scheme designed to support residents purchasing their first freehold residential property in Dubai. It provides access to exclusive property launches, preferential pricing, and tailored mortgage solutions. The programme is open to both UAE nationals and expatriates, with no restrictions on nationality or income level. Its primary goal is to encourage long-term investment and increase homeownership among Dubai's growing population. Who's eligible? To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria: Be a UAE resident aged 18 or older. Not currently own any freehold residential property in Dubai. Be purchasing a property valued below AED 5 million. Joint purchases are allowed, provided all buyers meet the eligibility requirements. Ownership of non-freehold properties (e.g. leasehold or properties outside Dubai) does not affect eligibility. How to sign up Registration is straightforward and free of charge. Applicants can sign up via: The Dubai Land Department website The Dubai REST mobile app Once registered, applicants receive a QR code confirming their eligibility. This code grants access to programme benefits, including exclusive property launches and financing offers. Registration remains valid even if a property is not purchased immediately, allowing buyers to take advantage of future opportunities. What benefits are offered? Participants in the programme gain access to: Exclusive property launches: Priority access to new developments from 13 major Dubai developers, including Emaar, DAMAC, Nakheel, and Meraas. Discounted prices: Select off-plan units are offered at reduced rates. Tailored mortgages: Partner banks such as Emirates NBD, Mashreq, and Dubai Islamic Bank provide customised home loan packages with competitive interest rates and expedited approvals. Flexible fee payments: DLD registration fees can be paid in instalments using eligible credit cards, often interest-free. The initiative is part of Dubai's broader strategy to double the real estate sector's contribution to GDP. By lowering barriers to entry, officials hope to foster a culture of ownership among residents and attract long-term investment. For many expatriates, the programme represents a shift in policy — from a transient rental model to one that encourages permanent settlement and financial stability.
Tourism Breaking News
16 hours ago
- Tourism Breaking News
Dubai welcomes 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025
Post Views: 36 According to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) Dubai welcomed 9.88 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2025 – a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. Dubai's evolving destination offering, driven by impactful public-private partnerships and amplified through a robust global marketing strategy, resulted in the city welcoming these visitors. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: 'Dubai continues to set new records in international visitation, reinforcing the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to make the city a major global business and tourism destination. This milestone reflects Dubai's steady growth as a focal point for trade, investment, talent and opportunity and its rise as the world's most connected city. Dubai's ability to create compelling experiences that meet the evolving needs of visitors has strengthened its status as one of the world's most sought-after destinations. From exceptional infrastructure to unique attractions, Dubai offers a model of excellence in the tourism and hospitality sectors grounded in innovation.' 'As we advance the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, tourism will remain key to driving GDP growth and cross-sector value creation in the emirate's economy. By continually anticipating the needs of travellers and exceeding their expectations, we are strengthening Dubai's position as the world's best city to visit, live, and work in. Partnerships, global campaigns, events, and a series of new openings showcased the city to both new and returning international visitors, while DET's bespoke market strategy, working in collaboration with more than 3,000 global and domestic partners, led to growth in key regions. According to the DET data, the GCC and MENA proximity markets had a combined 26% share of overall visitors to Dubai from January to June 2025, with 1.51 million (15%) and 1.12 million (11%) arrivals respectively. Western Europe was the largest source market to Dubai, with 2.12 million visitors (22%), followed by CIS and Eastern Europe (15%), South Asia (15%), North East and South East Asia (9%), the Americas (7%), Africa (4%) and Australasia (2%). With unique offerings, safety and connectivity, Dubai has sustained its status as a preferred travel destination for visitors from both traditional and emerging markets. Adding to its appeal for international audiences, Dubai's accommodation portfolio continues to evolve, offering quality at every price point. In the first six months of 2025, the city expanded its hotel inventory with new openings across all segments and in various locations, including Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab in Umm Suqeim, Cheval Maison in Expo City, The Biltmore Hotel Villas in Al Barsha, and Vida Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: 'Dubai's strong tourism performance in the first half of 2025 reflects the enduring strength and adaptability of our economic model, even amid persistent global headwinds. Inflationary pressures, shifting traveller behaviours, and wider macroeconomic uncertainty continue to challenge destinations worldwide. Yet Dubai remains on an upward trajectory, an outcome shaped by the long-term vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the precision of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. 'Our response has been both deliberate and future-focused: enhancing visitor experiences through technology, investing in high-growth segments such as luxury, wellness, and experiential travel, and promoting deeper cultural exchange through local community engagement. We are embedding sustainability across our tourism ecosystem and focusing on the needs of next-generation travellers, from Gen Z and digital nomads to high-spending global tourists. 'This multifaceted approach not only supports our ambition to become the world's best city to visit, live, work and invest in; it also reinforces Dubai's position as a world-class centre of commerce, innovation, and cultural connection. As we look ahead, we will continue to scale this impact and deliver on the D33 Agenda by driving growth that is both diversified and globally relevant.'
Arabian Post
18 hours ago
- Arabian Post
Dubai welcomes nearly 10 million global visitors in 2025
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai 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.
