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TDT | Manama

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The United Arab Emirates is poised to become one of the world’s leading travel and tourism powerhouses this year, with the sector expected to support more than 925,000 jobs by the end of 2025. This growth follows a strong post-pandemic recovery and is driven by ambitious national strategies and rising visitor demand, according to new data released by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

The WTTC’s annual Economic Impact Research (EIR) report projects that international visitor spending in the UAE will reach a record Dh228.5 billion in 2025 — a 37% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Domestic travel is also on the rise, with local visitor spending estimated to hit Dh60 billion, up 47% from 2019.

The sector is forecasted to contribute Dh267.5 billion to the UAE’s national economy this year, accounting for nearly 13% of the country’s GDP.

"The UAE continues to lead the way in global travel and tourism. From smart cities to streamlined visas and world-class hospitality, it exemplifies how strategic planning can boost economic growth," said Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO.

Simpson highlighted the UAE’s forward-thinking approach through initiatives like the Tourism Strategy 2031 and National Tourism Charter, which focus on sustainability, innovation, and long-term development.

Record Year for UAE Travel in 2024

In 2024, the travel and tourism industry added Dh257.3 billion to the economy, supporting over 898,600 jobs, or roughly 1 in 8 jobs nationwide. Dubai alone welcomed 18.72 million international visitors, marking a 9% increase compared to 2023. International visitor spending totaled Dh217.3 billion, while domestic spending reached Dh57.6 billion.

Looking ahead, WTTC predicts the UAE’s tourism sector will contribute nearly Dh287.8 billion to the national economy by 2035 and create more than 1 million jobs.

Abu Dhabi’s Expanding Attractions

Abu Dhabi continues to position itself as a global leisure and cultural hub. Highlights include:

• Disneyland Abu Dhabi: The first Disney theme park in the Middle East, set to open on Yas Island, making the UAE the seventh Disney destination globally.

• Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: A new cultural icon under construction on Saadiyat Island.

• Harry Potter World: Launching soon at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.

• Yas Waterworld Expansion: Adding 12 new rides, including the UAE’s tallest waterslide.

• Ferrari World’s New Roller Coaster: Set to break records upon opening.

Innovative attractions like teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a digital art experience, have also added to the capital's growing tourism appeal.

Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030 aims to attract 39.3 million visitors, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a global tourism leader.