UAE emerges as one of top destinations for Chinese tourists in 2025
The UAE has emerged as the one of the go-to-destinations among Chinese tourists this year, surpassing traditional favourites, like some European cities and the Maldives, according a global travel distribution company providing data on Chinese outbound market.
A recent report by Dida revealed the UAE is among the top choices for outbound Chinese travellers in 2025. Japan remains the number one international destination for Chinese travellers, followed by South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Hong Kong SAR, Singapore, Italy, Indonesia, Vietnam and the UAE in order of popularity among Chinese visitors, who come from middle class backgrounds with disposable income and 'an insatiable desire to see destinations abroad'.
'In this new era of travel, Chinese travellers are exploring the globe with renewed passion,' said Gareth Matthews, chief marketing officer at Dida. 'The UAE is a top destination — surpassing other European destinations — thanks to its dynamic blend of modern luxury and rich cultural heritage. From iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to thrilling desert adventures and pristine beaches, the country offers something for every type of traveller,' said Rashida Zahid, VP - Operations at musafir.com, explaining the reasons behind the increase in Chinese travellers
'The country's world-class shopping, diverse culinary scene, and year-round events make it a vibrant hub for experiences, while its reputation for safety, cleanliness, and exceptional hospitality ensures a seamless and memorable stay. With easy connectivity and visa-friendly access, the UAE continues to attract millions as a must-visit destination,' Zahid added.
Key factor
Being visa-free is another key factor that is driving Chinese tourists to the UAE. 'It simplifies travel, reducing planning time, thereby making the UAE an accessible destination for last-minute travellers.'
Shilpa Mahtani, co-founder and managing director of bnbme holiday homes by Hoteliers, said direct flight connectivity, increased visa facilitation, and strategic tourism marketing efforts — such as Mandarin-speaking concierge services, mobile payment compatibility, and Chinese New Year promotions — have played a vital role in driving Chinese tourists to the UAE.
She said: 'We have seen a measurable uptick in bookings from Chinese nationals, particularly in our Dubai Marina, Downtown, and Palm Jumeirah luxury properties. Compared to the same period in 2024, bookings from Chinese guests during the May Day period in 2025 have increased by 28 per cent, reflecting the renewed interest and easing of travel restrictions.'
Tourist growth to continue
'We expect this growth trajectory to continue as we head into the second half of the year,' Mahtani noted, adding, 'Chinese tourists are increasingly requesting bespoke services such as private yacht rentals, desert safari experiences with luxury add-ons, personal shopping tours, and spa and wellness treatments within their holiday homes.'
'There is also strong interest in curated culinary experiences — from Michelin-starred restaurants to authentic Emirati and pan-Asian cuisine. Cultural excursions to sites like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Expo City Dubai have also gained popularity, showing a clear shift toward a more balanced mix of luxury, culture, and experiential travel.'
Meanwhile, the Dida report also noted domestic travel within China has increased by 33 per cent year-on-year, while inbound tourism by international visitors has more than tripled, fuelled by the introduction of visa-friendly policies and China's growing global appeal as a holiday destination.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
37 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai Tram service partially suspended after Marina high-rise fire
The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced on Saturday a temporary suspension of Dubai Tram service between Dubai Marina Station (No. 5) and Palm Jumeirah Station (No. 9), following a fire that broke out in a nearby high-rise building late Friday night. The disruption has been implemented as a precaution to ensure passenger safety and to facilitate post-fire operations. To support affected commuters, alternative bus services are running between the impacted stations. Tram service remains unaffected and continues to operate normally across the rest of the network. Service on the suspended section will resume once authorities confirm the track is safe.
The National
3 hours ago
- The National
Al Ain fans dream big as team prepares for Fifa Club World Cup kick-off
Al Ain supporters are setting their expectations high ahead of the Fifa Club World Cup, drawing inspiration from the club's remarkable 2018 run to the final. Facing a formidable group that includes European giants Juventus and Manchester City, as well as Morocco's Al Wydad AC, fans remain optimistic about the tournament that begins on Sunday. Suhail Al Muarrami, 38, a passionate supporter, believes Al Ain can defy the odds. 'We were the champions of Asia last year. We came second in the 2018 tournament and our aim is to go far this year despite being in the toughest group,' Mr Al Muarrami told The National. 'We can get one point from Juventus in the opening game and compete with other teams. I believe Al Ain can go through the group stage.' Travel plans Mr Al Muarrami will travel on Friday, June 13, to Washington DC and plans to attend all of Al Ain's matches in the tournament. 'I will stay and support the team if we qualify for the next round," he said. "I will travel with a group of loyal supporters and we hope to stay until the end of the tournament.' He added it could be difficult for fans in the UAE to watch the matches live due to time difference with the US. 'I don't have a problem as I will be in the stadium but it will be a hassle for people watching from the UAE,' he said. Mr Al Muarrami has supported the club since childhood and travels with the team to different countries whenever there is a match outside the UAE. 'All people in Al Ain support the club and we teach the love of the club to our children. I have club membership. The passion of Al Ain fans is unmatched.' Watching from afar Emad Sowan, 35, from Jordan, has been an Al Ain supporter from a young age. He was planning to travel but broke his knee seven months ago. 'I still can't walk properly. I was planning to go and even had my visa done but don't think I can make it,' Mr Sowan told The National. His plan B is to watch the matches from home despite the time difference. 'The matches are at a bad time for people living in the UAE and region. Still, I will stay late watching and supporting my team. It is history to witness.' Mr Sowan said all the fans are looking to repeat the 2018 achievement when Al Ain came second in the tournament. 'We hope we can go far in the tournament. It is hard but not impossible in football,' he said. 'Juventus are not in good shape, and I think we have an opportunity to win against them. Twenty years ago, Al Ain won against Juventus.' Al Ain are giants of UAE football, and have twice been Asia's best side. They took several significant scalps on their way to becoming the first Emirati participants in this new event. Their extraordinary journey to AFC Champions League glory last season included wins over Al Nassr of Cristiano Ronaldo, and Al Hilal of – the albeit injured – Neymar. In the final, they demolished a Yokohama F Marinos side who were coached by Harry Kewell.
Khaleej Times
4 hours ago
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Grant or loan? Housing assistance for citizens explained
Navigating government housing assistance can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you're building your first home, need a prefabricated home, or want to renovate and maintain your existing home, understanding the difference between grants and loans is the first step. Here's what you need to know and how to determine if you qualify. The Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment continues to support Dubai citizens with housing services through two main options: housing grants and housing loans. Each option is designed to meet the needs of applicants based on their income, marital status, and living conditions. According to the Establishment's website, its mission is to provide housing services to those eligible, prioritising and addressing their needs, ensuring a decent life for them, and preserving the characteristics and benefits of the residential communities it establishes. Who Can Apply? Dubai citizens can apply for a grant or loan, subject to several eligibility criteria. Housing grants are generally provided to widows, divorcees with children, people of determination, and low-income families who do not own a property registered in their name in Dubai or other emirates. The applicant must be an Emirati holding a Dubai passport, and the property must be located in Dubai. On the other hand, housing loans are typically granted to citizens with a stable income who are able to repay the loan over a period of time. Applicants must be at least 22 years old, employed in the government or private sector, or self-employed, with proof of income. They must not have previously received housing support from federal or local entities. Married applicants, especially those with children, are given priority for both types of support. In some cases, separated or divorced individuals may apply jointly or individually, depending on the custody status and court rulings. According to WAM, the Foundation's responsibilities include allocating residential land, constructing housing and residential complexes, allocating them to beneficiaries, leasing them, providing soft loans and financial grants necessary for the construction and purchase of housing, and covering the costs of maintenance, additions, or replacement. The Foundation also rehabilitates existing housing for citizens in older areas of the emirate, resettling them in these areas, improving housing services, and undertaking all necessary actions, including the purchase, ownership, reconstruction, or renovation of housing, in coordination with relevant government agencies. Required documents Applicants must prepare a set of official documents, including: A copy of their Emirates ID card and family book Proof of income (such as a salary certificate or bank statement) A valid land title deed or signed approval (if applying for construction support) Marriage certificate (if applicable) Court documents in the event of divorce or custody Medical reports if applying under the category of people with special needs All documents must be submitted through official channels and updated continuously throughout the process. Financial details Eligibility is also affected by the applicant's income. While there is no fixed minimum, grants are typically awarded to those with a monthly income of less than Dh15,000, while loans are granted to those with incomes above this limit, based on their ability to repay. The maximum support provided by the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment can reach up to Dh1 million, depending on the type of housing product and the assessment of the case. Financial loans are granted to beneficiaries pursuant to a contract concluded between the Establishment and the beneficiary. This contract specifies the loan amount and its purpose, the method, amount, and duration of the collection guarantee, and any other conditions the Establishment deems appropriate. Regarding collection, financial loans are collected in monthly installments, the amount of which is determined according to regulations and standards. The beneficiary's monthly income is taken into account when determining the installment amount, and the full loan repayment period must not exceed twenty-five years. How to apply The process begins by creating an account on the Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment's smart platform or using the Dubai Now app. Applicants must complete the online application form and upload all necessary documents. After submitting the application, it undergoes an initial review phase, followed by a technical and financial evaluation. The Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment also provides advisory support for those unsure of which service is right for them. The Khaleej Times recently reported that the Foundation had implemented a training initiative for citizens on efficient and sustainable housing construction. Participants were provided with a detailed guide covering housing services, construction guidelines, and smart systems, as well as sustainable home management practices. They also learned how to estimate construction costs, determine an appropriate budget, choose the right home dimensions, and align the home design with the family's needs and financial resources. In addition, participants were introduced to the differences between building a new home and purchasing a ready-made home, as well as an overview of available financing options. Types of housing support The Mohammed bin Rashid Housing Establishment offers a variety of housing grants and loans, designed to meet the various stages of a citizen's housing search journey. Among the most common types of grants are: Construction grants for citizens who own land but cannot afford construction costs. Home maintenance grants for families living in old properties that need urgent repairs. Ready-built home purchase grants for low-income families eligible for a ready-built home. Replacement grants for the demolition and reconstruction of unsafe buildings. For housing loans, there are a variety of options to suit different income brackets: Each type has specific conditions, repayment terms (for loans), and technical requirements. The Corporation's responsibilities, also include owning, constructing, leasing, and renting land and real estate; designing and implementing residential units and complexes for beneficiaries, either by itself or through institutions and companies it contracts for this purpose; and designing and implementing service facilities related to these units and complexes, in coordination with relevant government agencies.
