Page 339 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2024 (Part 1)

UAE tourism’s exceptional performance

H.E. Bin Touq continued: “The UAE’s tourism sector continues its exceptional growth year
after year. It grew by 26 per cent in 2023 compared to that of 2022, breaking the records
achieved in 2019 by 14 per cent. Its contribution to the national GDP reached
approximately AED 220 billion, equivalent to 11.7 per cent. In addition, the country’s

airports received approximately 72 million passengers in the first half of 2024, reflecting a
14 per cent growth over the same period in 2023. Moreover, the UAE’s 1,240 hotels
recorded more than 53 million guest nights, with occupancy rate reaching 80 per cent, one
of the highest globally.”

H.E. noted that these figures reflect the country’s leading position in the global tourism and
travel landscape. They underscore the sector’s importance in the growth and
competitiveness of the national economy and supporting digital transformation, as well as
increasing the number of SMEs operating in various tourism-related fields in line with ‘We

the UAE 2031’ vision.

Tourism: Key driver of economic growth

Emphasizing the tourism sector’s significance as a key driver of economic growth, H.E. Bin
Touq said that therefore it also contributes to the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable
Development Goals. The UAE continues to support global efforts to boost the sector’s
sustainable development, improve its resilience, and promote cooperation and exchange
of insights for the localization of advanced technology in tourism areas and activities, with
the goal of developing a highly efficient infrastructure that ensures a prosperous future for

the sector.

“The meeting is an important step towards enhancing the exchange of expertise and
deliberations on mechanisms for cooperation among the G20 countries, to develop
innovative tourism initiatives that ensure the sustainable development of the sector and
provide it with more opportunities,” he said.

UAE’s efforts to develop tourism

Furthermore, H.E. Bin Touq elaborated on various initiatives and policies implemented by
the UAE to foster domestic tourism. These endeavours have played a significant role in

establishing a distinguished tourism infrastructure in the country in line with international
best practices. Additionally, the UAE has prioritised the development of premier and
diverse tourism destinations and offerings, while also ensuring the provision of superior
services. The tourism sector contributes significantly to the UAE’s economic diversification
efforts, seamlessly aligning with the objectives outlined in the ‘UAE Tourism Strategy 2031.’

https://uaenews247.com/2024/09/25/uae-participates-in-g20-tourism-ministers-meeting-
in-brazil-reinforces-commitment-to-supporting-global-efforts-to-ensure-the-sectors-
sustainable-development/