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Press Release

UAE showcases its pioneering experience in tourism development at

G20 Tourism Working Group meeting in South Africa

Country’s efforts in improving air connectivity and facilitating international
mobility as crucial drivers for global tourism and sector resilience highlighted

Abu Dhabi, May 12, 2025:

The UAE participated in the second meeting of the G20 Tourism Working Group held in Durban,
South Africa, from May 11 to 13, 2025. The country’s delegation was led by H.E. Badria Youssef
Al Maidoor, Assistant Undersecretary for the Support Services Sector of the Ministry of Economy.

The UAE’s participation came in response to a formal invitation extended by South Africa, the
G20 Presidency for 2025. This marks the sixth time that the UAE has participated as a guest in the
group’s meetings. The latest meeting was held under the theme "Solidarity, Equality, and
Sustainability," addressing interconnected global challenges related to the economy, climate, and
sustainable development.

During the meeting, the UAE delegation praised South Africa’s efforts in advancing tourism
growth and enhancing the G20’s agenda for tourism cooperation. The delegation expressed sincere
appreciation to South Africa for hosting the event, emphasizing that this year’s agenda closely
aligns with the UAE’s vision and strategy for tourism development, particularly the focus on
fostering innovation and human-centered artificial intelligence to support the growth of small and
medium sized tourism enterprises, as well as advancing tools for sustainable tourism financing and
investment.

The delegation highlighted the UAE’s efforts to improve air connectivity and facilitate
international mobility, recognizing these as crucial drivers for advancing global tourism.
Additionally, it emphasized the importance of enhancing the resilience of the sector and its ability
to withstand crises, while ensuring inclusivity and sustainability in tourism development.

The country’s delegation also reviewed the UAE’s key tourism performance indicators,
highlighting the sector’s impressive achievements in 2024, which further strengthened its
contribution to the growth and sustainability of the national economy. Revenues from hotel
establishments in the country surged to nearly AED 45 billion, reflecting a 3 per cent growth