Page 611 - MOET PR REPORT- SEPTEMBER 2025

9/12/25, 5:02 PM Tourism Growth Accelerates As UAE Hotels Post $7.1B In H1 Revenues
Officials say the results highlight the combined efforts of public and private stakeholders, aligning
with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to boost the sector’s contribution to the national

economy to $122.5 billion (AED450 billion) by the next decade.

The announcement came during the Emirates Tourism Council’s third meeting of 2025, chaired by
Al Marri and attended by leaders of local tourism authorities. He credited the strong performance to

the government’s continued prioritization of tourism as a strategic growth driver beyond oil

revenues.

“Through the Emirates Tourism Council, we continue our efforts to promote sustainable tourism

development in the country by fostering effective partnerships between the public and private

sectors and launching innovative initiatives and projects,” Al Marri said.

He added that these initiatives not only fuel growth but also “enhance visitor experiences, create

opportunities for Emirati talent, and reinforce the UAE’s position as a global tourism hub.”

Abu Dhabi hotel occupancy rate

Abu Dhabi’s hospitality sector recorded solid growth in 2024, with hotel establishments welcoming
5.8 million guests, up from 3 million in the previous comparable period, according to data from the

Department of Culture and Tourism. The surge in visitors pushed the average occupancy rate to

79%.

Guests spent an average of 3.2 nights per stay. The total number of operating hotel establishments

reached 497.

Upcoming summits

The Emirates Tourism Council also reviewed on Tuesday some upcoming projects, including the

UAE’s preparations to host the UAE-Africa Tourism Investment Summit on October 27, part of the
broader Future Hospitality Summit (FHS World).

The event will bring together tourism ministers and senior officials from 53 African nations to

explore joint opportunities in tourism infrastructure, sustainable hospitality, and niche travel
products. The summit is expected to cement the UAE’s role as a bridge connecting Africa with

global markets and a trusted partner in tourism investment.

The Council also discussed 2026 development plans, including fresh initiatives to enhance visitor

offerings and solidify the UAE’s status as a regional leader and a global destination of choice.

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