Page 876 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - JANUARY 2025

The aviation industry has long been central to the UAE's economic strategy, serving as a key driver
for the country's growing tourism sector. A series of global accolades and major investments
received in 2024 reinforce the sector's significance and growing influence.

Most notably this included the inauguration of Zayed International Airport, celebrated for its
innovative design and earning accolades as the "World's Most Beautiful Airport," as well as the
launch of a Dh128 billion terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport, set to be the world's largest.
The new infrastructure has enabled the UAE's two largest cities to accommodate more guests and
handle additional flights from a wider range of carriers.

"The addition of new airlines and the strong performance of our existing partners reflect the
confidence in Abu Dhabi as a leading aviation hub," Elena Sorlini, Managing Director and Chief
Executive Officer at Abu Dhabi Airports said in a statement on strong numbers back in October.

This success trickled down into the tourism sector which experienced a significant boom in 2024,
increasing revenues to Dh236 billion in 2024, representing approximately 12% the country's gross
domestic product (GDP), according to forecasts by the World Travel and Tourism Council.

Hotel revenues in the UAE reached Dh33.5 billion during the first nine months of 2024, a 4% rise
from the same period in 2023, with occupancy rates across the seven emirates climbing to 77.8%,
among the highest globally.

"Supported by strong air connectivity, Dubai has a prominent presence on the global stage for
trade, investments, tourism, and is a leading player in aviation and logistics," His Highness Sheikh
Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline & Group, and
Chairman of Dubai Airports said in a statement.

Looking ahead to 2025, the continued growth in international tourism and travel could amplify the
momentum already seen in the UAE. In December, global airline body IATA projected industry-wide
revenue exceeding a trillion dollars and record passenger numbers for 2025, an opportunity the
UAE is poised to capitalise on.

https://en.aletihad.ae/news/business/4542205/uae-aviation-and-tourism-soar-with-record-
breaking-growth-in