Page 547 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - MAY 2025 ( Part 2)

5/22/25, 11:51 AM UAE Explores Stronger Tourism Ties with Spain and Croatia to Advance Sustainable Sector Growth
The discussions underscored the UAE’s commitment to expanding cooperation across various tourism
sub-sectors, including leisure, investment, and tourism technology. H.E. Bin Touq emphasized the
UAE’s progress in developing world-class tourism infrastructure and leading destinations, in line with
international best practices, to position the country as a premier global destination.

Emphasis on the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031

During the meetings, H.E. Bin Touq highlighted the strategic importance of the UAE Tourism Strategy
2031, which aims to increase the sector’s contribution to the national GDP to AED 450 billion, attract
AED 100 billion in tourism investments, and welcome 40 million visitors annually by 2031. The

strategy forms a cornerstone of the UAE’s long-term vision to drive sustainable growth and strengthen
the country’s global tourism competitiveness.

Tourism Performance and Sector Growth

The UAE’s tourism sector demonstrated continued growth in 2024. Hotel revenues reached AED 45
billion, marking a 3% year-on-year increase. The country recorded a hotel occupancy rate of 78%,
among the highest globally, and added 16 new hotels, bringing the total to 1,251 by year-end.

UAE–Spain Tourism Exchange

In discussions with Spanish officials, both sides reviewed the latest trends in global tourism and
discussed enhancing cooperation in tourism policy, innovation, and sustainable practices. The number
of Spanish tourists visiting the UAE reached 150,231 in 2024, reflecting a 14% increase from the

previous year. Air connectivity remains strong, with approximately 48 weekly flights operated by UAE
and Spanish carriers.

Boosting UAE–Croatia Tourism Links

In Croatia, H.E. Bin Touq and H.E. Glavina explored avenues for collaboration between tourism
companies in both countries. The dialogue focused on creating joint tourism programs and expanding
leisure offerings to stimulate reciprocal tourism flows. There are currently over 42 monthly flights

between the UAE and Croatia, reinforcing strong connectivity and opportunities for mutual growth.

H.E. Bin Touq reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to supporting UN Tourism initiatives and building
lasting partnerships with member states to advance sustainable global tourism.

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