The UAE’s tourism industry posted impressive numbers in 2024, generating AED 45 billion in revenue—marking a 3% rise compared to the previous year. Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri credited the growth to the country’s forward-thinking approach, emphasizing sustainable strategies and policies that continue to shape a thriving tourism ecosystem.
Tourism remains a cornerstone of the UAE’s economic vision, playing a vital role in boosting competitiveness and driving a shift towards a knowledge-based economy.
Hotel occupancy rates across the country reached 78% last year, one of the highest globally. The sector saw a notable expansion with 16 new hotels opening across the Emirates, pushing the total to 1,251 hotels by the end of 2024. Room capacity also grew to nearly 217,000, while hotel guest numbers surged by 9.5%, reaching around 30.8 million.
Remarkably, the country has already achieved 77% of its hotel guest target under the ‘National Tourism Strategy 2031’—a milestone hit seven years ahead of schedule.
