RASHA TUBEILEH (ABU DHABI)
Flight bookings to Abu Dhabi soared by 59% in the second quarter of this year compared to the same period last year, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. The council also reported a 13% rise in flight bookings to Dubai during the same period. Overall, international arrivals in Abu Dhabi and Dubai increased by more than 9% last year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2019.
Industry experts highlighted key factors behind Abu Dhabi’s tourism boom, including the activity at Zayed International Airport, the expansion of airline networks, and the development of tourism and cultural infrastructure. Alaa Al Ali, CEO of Nirvana Travel and Tourism, stated: “Abu Dhabi is an integrated destination for both business and leisure tourists, offering diverse attractions like the entertainment hubs on Yas Island and the museums on Saadiyat.”
The recent opening of a new passenger terminal at Zayed International Airport and Etihad Airways’ expanded flight network have played crucial roles in attracting more tourists to Abu Dhabi. The city also hosts numerous events and exhibitions, further enhancing its appeal as a top destination.
Tourism and travel expert Salah Al Kaabi predicted continued growth in flight bookings to Abu Dhabi in the second half of the year. He attributed this to the ongoing expansion of airlines and the improved traveller experience at Zayed International Airport. He also emphasised the significance of events, exhibitions, and conferences in driving tourism, supported by the city’s robust infrastructure, including event facilities and hotel accommodation.
Abu Dhabi Airports recorded approximately 13.9 million passengers in the first half of this year, a 33.5% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth in passenger traffic was accompanied by a 24.3% rise in air traffic, with 84,286 flights recorded during the first half of 2024, compared to 67,835 flights in the first half of 2023.
The UAE as a whole welcomed 25.3 million international tourists last year, a 28.5% increase from the previous year, and is expected to attract 29.2 million international tourists this year, reflecting a growth of 15.5%. The UAE’s aviation sector saw significant growth, with over 134 million passengers passing through the country’s airports in 2023, marking a 33% increase from 2022 and a 5% rise compared to 2019.
Tourism’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP is expected to reach Dh236.4 billion this year, a 7.6% increase from last year, further underscoring the sector’s importance to the national economy.