BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
In 2025, the UAE solidified its status as one of the world's most dynamic tourism economies, with record occupancy rates, expanding infrastructure, and ambitious seasonal campaigns that attracted millions of visitors and strengthened the sector's contribution to national growth.
According to Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy & Tourism, hotel occupancy rates in the UAE reached 79.3% during the first 10 months of 2025, up from 78% in the previous year.
Tourism's contribution to the national economy remained significant, with the sector accounting for 13% of GDP last year, equivalent to Dh257.3 billion, and providing more than 920,000 jobs.
Al Marri reiterated plans to expand that contribution to 17% within five years, supported by continued investment and expansion in aviation.
Aviation continued to underpin this growth, with Abu Dhabi Airports, Dubai International Airport and Sharjah International Airport collectively handling 108.59 million passengers by the end of September, a testament to the UAE's connectivity and hub status.Farhan Badami, Market Analyst at eToro, highlighted the broader economic implications of tourism's strength in the UAE.
"Tourism is not just a growth story for the UAE economy, it is a key pillar supporting a wide range of sectors and listed companies. Airlines, hotel groups and travel platforms all stand to benefit as visitor numbers continue to rise," Badami said in a statement.
He noted that tourism acts as a powerful multiplier, bolstering retail, transport and real estate markets, while reinforcing the country's diversification away from hydrocarbons.
Despite tighter global economic conditions that could weigh on discretionary travel, the UAE's ability to attract record visitor numbers even amid uncertainty "underscores its competitive edge as a premium leisure and business destination," Badami added.
Looking ahead to 2026, tourism is expected to remain a key engine of growth, driving investment opportunities both domestically and internationally, he said.
Major Tourism Projects in 2025
The year 2025 saw announcements and openings of several high‑profile tourism developments. Among them were the Dh2 billion Therme Dubai wellness and leisure destination, the opening of Abu Dhabi's interactive Butterfly Sanctuary, and the Wynn Al Marjan Island hotel and resort in Ras Al Khaimah.
Other headline projects included the Dh3.5 billion Al Tay Hills development in Sharjah, the second phase of the Umm Al Quwain Creek Waterfront, and a globally significant Disney theme park and resort on Yas Island.
Additionally, the opening of Zayed National Museum and the Natural History Museum in Saadiyat Cultural District, as well as Al Ain Museum stood out in the tourism sector.
Global Recognition
Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais was elected as Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term, making history as the first woman to lead UN Tourism.
On another hand, Masfout village in Ajman was also named Best Tourism Village in the World 2025 by UN Tourism, and the UAE ranking among the top seven destinations globally for international tourism spending.
Additionally, Abu Dhabi's Saadiyat Island was also named one of Best Places to Go in 2026 by Condé Nast Traveller.
Al Ain was also named Capital of Arab Tourism for 2026 at the Arab Ministerial Council meeting in Baghdad earlier in December.
Top Destinations in UAE
Al AinAl Ain welcomed around 228,000 hotel guests in the first half of 2025, a 12% increase year-on-year. Cultural sites saw major growth, with visits to Al Ain Oasis up 40% and Qasr Al Muwaiji up 49%.
The surge supports Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030, positioning Al Ain as a rising cultural and eco-tourism hub.
Dubai
Dubai welcomed a record 15.70 million overnight visitors between January and October 2025, marking a 5% increase compared to the same period last year.
Hotel performance remained robust, with average occupancy reaching 79.4%. This sustained growth builds on Dubai's record 18.72 million international visitors in 2024 and reflects continued global demand for the city as a leading travel destination.
Yas Island – Abu Dhabi
Yas Island experienced a record‑breaking summer in 2025, with overall visitation rising by 15% compared to the previous year. Its theme parks delivered their strongest performance ever, boosted by a 9% increase in visits and a 50% surge in international visitors.
In winter, Yas Island brought a festive spirit, where seasonal experiences blended entertainment with family activities. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi transformed into a winter playground with its Winterfest celebration, featuring snowy play areas and ice‑skating. Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi celebrated with its Winter Spectacular, complete with character experiences and festive shows.
Saadiyat Island – Abu Dhabi
Saadiyat Island also saw impressive summer footfall, with visitor numbers up 14% year‑on‑year. The island's attractions, including teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, exceeded expectations and drew significant interest from both regional and international tourists.
The year 2025 demonstrated the UAE's commitment to expanding its tourism footprint, inviting the world not just to visit, but to experience year‑round experiences in a country where hospitality meets ambition.