Overview

Latest data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) indicates that international visitor spending in the United Arab Emirates is projected to reach a historic AED 228.5 billion in 2025, surpassing the previous record set in 2019 by 37%.

Economic Contribution

The WTTC’s annual Economic Impact Research shows that the tourism sector in the UAE is poised for a robust year in 2025, expected to contribute AED 267.5 billion to the national economy, which equates to almost 13% of GDP. Additionally, domestic spending is anticipated to reach AED 60 billion, marking a 47% increase from 2019’s figures, demonstrating the resilience of the local travel market.

Strategic Innovations

These achievements reflect the UAE’s commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and improving interconnectivity within its cities and attractions. This progress is fueled by initiatives focusing on smart city development, high-quality infrastructure, and an emphasis on enhancing visitor experiences.

Insights from Leadership

Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, expressed:

“The UAE continues to lead the way in global Travel & Tourism. From cutting-edge smart cities to exceptional hospitality and seamless visa systems, the country is a model of how strategic vision drives economic growth.”

“With initiatives like the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter, the UAE is building a future-ready sector rooted in sustainability and innovation. With strong leadership and public-private alignment, 2025 is set to mark yet another chapter in the UAE’s remarkable tourism success story.”

Reflecting on 2024

In 2024, the tourism sector contributed AED 257.3 billion to the UAE’s economy while supporting approximately 898,600 jobs, representing nearly one in eight jobs nationwide. Spending by international travelers amounted to AED 217.3 billion, complemented by AED 57.6 billion from domestic visitors.

Growth Projections

Looking towards the future, WTTC forecasts that the sector will contribute nearly AED 287.8 billion to the economy by 2035, which would constitute 10.4% of the national GDP. Job creation within the sector is also projected to exceed one million, underscoring its crucial role in the nation’s economic diversification and growth.

Regional Trends

The Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector is also on an upward trajectory, with contributions to the GDP projected to reach $367.3 billion by 2025, alongside an estimated 7.7 million jobs supported.