Page 148 - MOET ENGLISH PR REPORT - JUNE 2025

Mohammed bin Rashid: UAE among top 7 global destinations for international tourist
spending

Thursday, June 26, 2025 4:34 PM

A recent report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) revealed that the UAE's travel and
tourism sector delivered an exceptional performance in 2024.

The sector contributed AED257.3 billion (US$70.1 billion) to the national GDP, accounting for 13%
of the economy. This marks a 3.2% increase from 2023 and a remarkable 26% growth compared to
2019, one of the highest growth rates globally and regionally in terms of tourism’s contribution to
economic development.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler
of Dubai, praised the sector’s achievements, stating, “In a new indicator of the strength and
diversity of our national economy, the WTTC report highlights the exceptional achievements of the
UAE tourism sector. International visitor spending exceeded AED217 billion last year, with domestic
tourism expenditure reaching AED57 billion. The UAE ranks among the world’s top seven
destinations for international tourist spending, surpassing countries that have been in this industry
for centuries.”

He added, “We welcome tourists, delight in attracting investors, embrace talent, and build the best
environment for living, tourism, and visitation. Welcome to the world.”

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