Page 779 - MOE ENGLISH PR - MAY 2024

UAE's Tourism Sector Projected To Bolster GDP

By 12% In 2024: Economy Minister Reveals

By OneArabia

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, the UAE's Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates
Tourism Council, highlighted the significant contribution of the tourism sector to the country's
economy during his speech at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024. The sector saw an 11.7
percent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2023, reaching AED220 billion. Al Marri
projected that by the end of 2024, tourism would account for 12 percent of the UAE's GDP,
approximately AED236 billion.

The 31st edition of ATM, taking place at Dubai World Travel Centre (DWTC) until May 9th,
focuses on Gulf-wide collaboration, facilitating inter-regional travel, and infrastructure
development. The event witnessed a panel discussion featuring prominent figures such as
Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Fahd Hamidaddin, Azzan Al Busaidi, and Sarah Buhijji. Moderated by
Richard Dean of Dubai Eye, the discussion delved into the significance of inter-regional
initiatives for advancing the GCC tourism industry.

The panelists emphasized the planned GCC Unified Tourist Visa as a pivotal element for
promoting the region as an interconnected destination. This initiative is expected to enhance
accessibility, thereby improving key performance indicators like length of stay, average spend,
and employment rates. The discussion also covered how ongoing and future infrastructure
projects, including airports and cruise terminals as well as the anticipated GCC Railway, will
further boost accessibility across Gulf nations.

https://www.onearabia.me/business/uae-tourism-gdp-contribution-forecast-2024-011-30091.html