UAE among top 7 destinations for international tourist spending
The UAE's travel and tourism sector delivered a standout performance in 2024, contributing AED 257.3 billion to the national GDP — 13 per cent of the total economy, according to a report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
This marks a 3.2 per cent increase from 2023 and a 26 per cent surge compared to 2019, placing the UAE among the top global performers in tourism-driven economic growth.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, praised the sector's achievements, highlighting the UAE's ranking among the top seven global destinations for international tourist spending.
In 2024, international visitor spending exceeded AED 217 billion, while domestic tourism reached AED 57 billion.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism, credited the success to strategic planning and proactive initiatives. He reaffirmed the UAE's commitment to tourism as a key pillar of economic diversification and sustainable development.
The UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 aims to further boost the sector's GDP contribution to AED 450 billion and attract 40 million hotel guests annually by the next decade.
The WTTC report also revealed the UAE's strong international appeal, with visitors coming from: India (14%), United Kingdom (8%), Russia (8%), China (5%), Saudi Arabia (5%), other markets (60%).
Despite rapid growth, the UAE remains committed to sustainability. In 2023, tourism-related carbon emissions accounted for just 13.3 per cent of the country's total, reflecting efforts to integrate environmental standards across the sector.
On the social front, the report noted that women made up 16.3 per cent of the UAE's tourism workforce in 2023, while youth aged 15–24 represented 9.7 per cent, underscoring the sector's role in empowering future generations.
Globally, the travel and tourism sector added $10.9 trillion to the world economy in 2024, accounting for 10 per cent of global GDP.
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