Page 426 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - JUNE 2024

tourism activities. These efforts align with the nation's new economic model outlined in
the vision of ‘We the UAE 2031,’ where tourism plays a pivotal role.

He said: "This meeting holds significance considering the growing tourism industry in
the region and the dynamic shifts occurring both locally and internationally. It marks a
pivotal moment for enhancing collaborative efforts, fostering new opportunities and

initiatives, and finding the best solutions. Our goal is to harness these resources to
boost the growth and resilience of the tourism sector, thereby bolstering the economic
advancement of our Islamic economies. Ultimately, this initiative seeks to promote the

prosperity and welfare of our people, fulfill the aspirations of future generations, and
secure a brighter tomorrow for all.”

UAE Tourism Industry Benchmarks:

In his speech at the meeting, he added: "The UAE tourism sector has maintained its
momentum with remarkable achievements and strong indicators, reinforcing its crucial
position in driving the national economy. In 2023, the sector grew by 26 per cent

compared to 2022 and surpassed pre-pandemic levels from 2019 by 14 per cent. Its
significant contribution to the GDP has reached AED 220 billion, representing 11.7 per
cent of the country’s GDP. The sector is projected to continue its growth trajectory in

2024, with its expected contribution climbing to AED 236 billion, equivalent to 12 per
cent of the GDP, as indicated by a report from the World Travel and Tourism Council.”

Al Saleh added: “The United Arab Emirates ranked first regionally and 18th globally in
the World Economic Forum's 2024 Tourism and Travel Development Index, making a
remarkable advancement of seven places from its 25th rank globally in 2019.” He noted

that these results and achievements underscores the efficacy of the forward-looking
vision of the wise leadership, which prioritizes sustainable tourism development and
nurtures ongoing collaboration with governmental and private sector partners, both
regionally and globally, in order to achieve the targets of ‘National Tourism Strategy

2031’.

These objectives aim to elevate the status of the UAE as the premier global tourist
destination, raise the tourism sector's contribution to the GDP of the country to AED 450
billion, and attract 40 million guests in hotel accommodations within the next decade.

Promoting digital transformation in tourism services:

https://www.zawya.com/en/press-release/events-and-conferences/uae-participates-in-12th-
session-of-conference-of-tourism-ministers-of-oic-in-uzbekistan-hw5saryh