Tourism industry in Dubai has continued its growth in 2024 as the total number of visitors to the Emirate rose by 9 pc to 18.72 million, a new high. According to a press statement by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the city had received 17.15 million overnight visitors in the preceding year, which was also a record high.

In terms of fastest growing source markets, Asia continued to be the largest as Dubai saw the highest growth in visitor numbers from North East and South East Asia, which rose by 24 pc, followed by Africa, rising 20 pc and CIS and Eastern Europe that grew by 16 pc. The statement adds that Western Europe remained the largest source region, with a 14 pc increase in visitors.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

According to DET, Dubai’s hotel occupancy rate rose to 78.2 pc, up from 77.4 pc in 2023, and occupied room nights rising to a high of 43.03 million, representing 3 pc growth compared to 41.70 million in 2023.

Helal Saeed Almarri

“This achievement is the result of visionary leadership and strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. We are committed to maintaining this exceptional growth momentum. Through strategic innovation, infrastructure development, talent acquisition, and market diversification, we will continue to enhance Dubai’s competitiveness, attract more international visitors, and enhance tourism’s role as a key driver of economic growth,” says Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.

The statement adds that the significant growth in tourism is underpinned by an increasing level of investment and wealth flowing into the Gulf, as well as year-round sporting, art and professional events, as well as marketing efforts.

Issam Kazim

“Through careful planning and dynamic, agile policy implementation, Dubai has successfully navigated global economic and geographic headwinds to achieve record-setting growth in tourism for a second consecutive year. This achievement is not an isolated milestone but a foundational pillar of Dubai’s diversified growth strategy,” says Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

“These collaborations have not only intensified our international efforts, but also made Dubai the destination of choice for new and returning visitors, with an increasing number of them finding the city appealing to relocate to, on a more permanent basis. A powerful sense of community among the almost 200 nationalities living in Dubai is also seeing more residents advocate for the city, inviting and hosting their friends and family to experience it for themselves,’’ says Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM).