The UAE’s tourism sector posted strong performance in the first half of 2025, with hotel establishments generating AED26 billion ($7.1 billion) in revenues, according to Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council. The results mark a 6.3% increase compared with the same period last year, reinforcing the UAE’s position as one of the world’s most attractive destinations.
Speaking at the Emirates Tourism Council’s third meeting of the year, Bin Touq revealed that hotel occupancy reached an impressive 80.5%. He emphasized that this growth aligns with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to raise the sector’s contribution to the national economy to AED450 billion ($122.5 billion) by the next decade.
Bin Touq highlighted that the country continues to strengthen its tourism identity through sustainable development, public-private partnerships, and innovative initiatives. These efforts, he noted, not only fuel visitor growth but also create opportunities for Emirati talent and deliver exceptional travel experiences.
The meeting also reviewed upcoming tourism initiatives and enhanced coordination with the private sector. Preparations for the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit, scheduled for October 27 as part of the Future Hospitality Summit (FHS World), were a key focus. The event will welcome ministers and senior officials from 53 African nations, offering a platform for partnerships in sustainable hospitality, tourism infrastructure, and niche travel products.
Local tourism authorities shared updates on recent achievements and outlined plans for 2026, further solidifying the UAE’s reputation as a leading global tourism hub. Bin Touq reaffirmed that tourism remains a cornerstone of the UAE’s strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil and position itself as a trusted international partner in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
