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| Tourism in Dubai - UAE Economy |
The UAE strengthens its tourism position with revenues exceeding AED 49 billion
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the report of the Emirates Tourism Council and the achievements of the UAE’s tourism sector in the first half of 2026.
The report showed that the UAE achieved continuous growth in the tourism sector, including an increase in the number of hotel guests to more than 32 million, a 5.1 percent increase compared to 2025, and an increase in hotel revenues to AED 49.21 billion, a 9.7 percent increase compared to 2024.
The number of hotel rooms reached 217,000 rooms distributed across more than 1,240 hotel establishments, and the hotel occupancy rate reached 79.5 percent, one of the highest rates regionally and globally, reflecting strong demand and sustained performance.
Among the most notable achievements of the UAE tourism sector was reaching 100 million hotel nights. The UAE also ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa region and 18th globally in the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index.
The numbers speak for themselves. The figures at the beginning of 2026 were not mere statistics, but rather a message of confidence from global markets in the UAE's tourism sector. According to official data revealed at the UAE Tourism Council meeting in mid-April, the country's hotels recorded a strong start to 2026, with a record occupancy rate of 85 percent.
This figure was not only symbolic, but also translated into substantial financial returns exceeding AED 9.8 billion (approximately USD 2.7 billion) during January and February alone, a 17 percent increase compared to the same period of the previous year. This steady growth, amidst the height of regional tensions, proves that international tourists now view the UAE as a destination completely separate from the surrounding turmoil.
“A Safe Lifestyle as a Tourism Product”
Al-Faram explained that seeing officials and decision-makers going about their daily lives in tourist facilities and major malls gives visitors an immediate sense of reassurance. These “silent messages” confirm to tourists that their chosen destination is so stable that it doesn’t even require traditional “reassurance” statements, making travel to the UAE a safe and well-considered decision.
Logistical Resilience and Sustained Well-being
Al-Faram pointed out that one of the most important indicators of confidence among tourist groups is the efficiency of resources and services. He said, “While some destinations may experience disruptions in basic services during crises, the UAE, an oasis of stability, maintains the highest levels of quality of life.” Tourists will find that energy supplies, water, smart services, and recreational facilities are operating at full capacity, ensuring a hassle-free trip.
"The UAE's Reputation" is a Distinctive Mark
Al-Awa explained that simply mentioning the name "UAE" or "Dubai" is an "unparalleled international endorsement," noting that the country has succeeded in creating a unique model unmatched anywhere else in the world. He attributed this to the high level of professionalism displayed by all hotel establishments, which offer a level of service that places global standards on one side and the UAE on the other.
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