( Tourism in Dubi - UAE Economy)

UAE Hotel Revenues to Reach $13.4 Billion in 2025

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, affirmed that the UAE, thanks to the directives of its wise leadership, has established itself as a leading and resilient global model in managing and developing the tourism sector. This is achieved by offering an exceptional experience based on proactivity, high preparedness, and rapid response in dealing with various crises.

He stated that the UAE has proven its ability to protect the gains of national tourism, ensure the sustainability of this vital sector, and enhance its competitiveness.

This came during the second meeting of the Emirates Tourism Council for 2026, held in Ras Al Khaimah and chaired by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri. The meeting, which included the heads and directors general of local tourism authorities, discussed new action plans aimed at accelerating the recovery of the tourism sector and enhancing its growth and sustainability in the UAE in the coming period, given the current regional circumstances and their impact on travel and tourism.

Ibn Touq explained that the UAE's tourism performed strongly in 2025, with the number of hotel guests reaching approximately 32.34 million, the highest figure ever recorded in a single year in the history of Emirati tourism. This compares to 30.75 million guests in 2024, representing a growth rate of about 5.2 percent. The number of overnight stays exceeded 110.62 million, compared to 104.45 million in the previous year, reflecting a growth rate of nearly 5.9 percent.

He noted that hotel revenues in the UAE market increased by 9.7 percent, reaching approximately AED 49.21 billion (around USD 13.4 billion) last year, compared to 2024, with a hotel occupancy rate of 79.3 percent.

The number of hotel rooms reached 217,000 by the end of 2025. He pointed out that these positive indicators reflect the importance of this vital sector in supporting the national economy and consolidating its competitive position regionally and internationally. A strong incentive to continue national efforts to enhance the growth and sustainability of the tourism sector under the current circumstances.

The Council reviewed the efforts undertaken by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and local tourism development departments since the beginning of the crisis, which have contributed to enhancing visitor safety and ensuring a smooth experience in the country, in addition to providing diverse accommodation solutions and integrated logistical support services.

These efforts included strengthening institutional coordination among various stakeholders to ensure a rapid and effective response to any unforeseen changes that the tourism sector may face.

The Council emphasized the importance of strengthening joint work and continuous coordination with various federal and local entities to ensure integrated roles and unified visions in addressing various challenges. This will enhance the efficiency of the national response and support the continued development of the tourism sector, solidifying its readiness for various changes.