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Time of India
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From Shah Rukh Khan to Beyoncé: Why Dubai is the ultimate destination for global celebrities?
Celebrities from Bollywood to Hollywood are choosing Dubai for its luxury, lifestyle, and star power/ Representative Image From A-list Bollywood icons to global music royalty and Hollywood elites, Dubai has become the world's go-to destination for celebrities who want more than just luxury, they want a lifestyle. Over the past decade, the emirate has seen a surge in visits, property purchases, brand endorsements, and lavish getaways by stars from India, South Africa, the US, and beyond. This isn't just about beaches and brunches. It's about cultural bridges, brand synergies, and a magnetic blend of security, sophistication, and sensory indulgence. Here's a comprehensive look at why Dubai tops every celebrity's list, not just as a travel hub, but as a second home. Bollywood's Deep Bond With Dubai India and the UAE share a special diplomatic and cultural connection and nowhere is that more evident than in Bollywood's love for Dubai. Celebrities from the Hindi film industry aren't just visiting, they're living, investing, and collaborating with the city at every level. Shah Rukh Khan : The Face of Dubai No one exemplifies this bond more than Shah Rukh Khan, who often refers to Dubai as his 'second home.' The superstar and wife Gauri Khan own a luxurious villa on Palm Jumeirah and he has been an ongoing collaborator with Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Vietnam: Giá nhà container chưa bán có thể khiến bạn bất ngờ (Xem ngay) Nomad's Notebook Nhấp vào đây In an official promotional film under the #BeMyGuest campaign, Shah Rukh said: 'Dubai is a second home to me. Whether I am here on vacation with my family and friends, or my many business trips here for shoots, it's a city that I truly relate to on many levels, driven, passionate and spirited.' The campaign featured him skydiving, dining, dune bashing, and inviting global audiences to 'come with me, be my guest.' He added: 'Dubai offers endless experiences that stay with you forever… whether you're travelling with family, friends or as a couple, this city truly offers a complete holiday experience.' Issam Kazim, CEO of DCTCM, affirmed this collaboration's success: 'Shah Rukh Khan truly represents the beautiful relationship that Dubai and India share.' 'Our tourism efforts are increasing every year, with a major emphasis on the Indian market. We are excited to invite Indians from all over the world to experience Shah Rukh Khan's Dubai for themselves.' Following his invitation, young stars like Parineeti Chopra and the late Sushant Singh Rajput rang in the New Year in Dubai, sharing their experiences on social media. Salman Khan : Brand Icon and Frequent Visitor Salman Khan, another megastar, has been featured on UAE billboards promoting homegrown brands such as Splash, a Middle East fashion label. He has often been seen strolling Dubai's malls or vacationing with rumoured partner Iulia Vantur. In 2023, a Pakistani fan even purchased a Dubai number plate featuring the actor's birthday, "27/12 S," in tribute. Salman has filmed hits like Kick, Dabangg, and Partner in the UAE and his family reportedly owns property in the city. In 2023, he also met H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, at a UAE Embassy event in Mumbai. Shilpa Shetty: From Resident to Luxury Guest Shilpa Shetty, actress and wellness entrepreneur, confirmed to the local media outlet Khaleej Times that she recently sold her apartment in the iconic Burj Khalifa: 'I used to have a home in Dubai but we just very recently sold it… it's lovely to have a two-bedroom place when you don't have a child. But when you have a child, you want a bigger space.' Though she's moved out of her Burj home, Shetty hasn't moved away from Dubai. As the brand ambassador of Danube Properties, she's actively involved in local real estate campaigns. She also launched her book The Great Indian Diet in Dubai and led the XYoga Dubai festival alongside yoga guru Suneel Singh, drawing over 9,000 participants. Anil Kapoor: Family-Driven Investment Veteran actor Anil Kapoor purchased a two-bedroom apartment in the 'Ritz by Danube' housing project. At a Dubai press conference (IANS reported), he joked: 'I do not have that nose to smell business, but my better half being Sindhi is apt at it.' Calling Dubai his 'second home', Kapoor noted his family's love for the city and the investment appeal surrounding Expo 2020. He regularly visits Dubai for film shoots (Welcome Back was shot here), promotions, and award ceremonies. Hollywood and African Celebs: Chasing the Dubai Dream Dubai isn't just a magnet for South Asian celebs. Western stars and African entertainers are also flocking to the city, for performances, parties, and high-profile vacations. Beyoncé, Will Smith , Zac Efron & More Dubai's most extravagant moment in recent years? Beyoncé's private concert to open Atlantis The Royal, which also hosted actress Ananya Panday, whose stay trended across platforms. Will Smith went skydiving over Palm Jumeirah. Zac Efron tore through the dunes in a buggy selfie session. Dubai is now the stage, and global celebrities are the headliners. African Superstars and Lifestyle Icons From Bonang Matheba to Connie and Shona Ferguson, and Shauwn Mkhize, African stars have made Dubai their festival season hotspot. Their days include: Desert safaris at sunset: quad biking, dune bashing, and awe-inspiring views. Yacht parties in the Dubai Marina: Bonang, Rosette Ncwana, and the Fergusons were all seen enjoying the luxe aquatic scene. The Burj Khalifa on New Year's Eve: Mkhize left South Africa early just to watch the fireworks from her suite at The Address Dubai Mall Hotel. As IOL Lifestyle put it: 'There's a stillness in the desert that makes you realise how big the world is… It made me forget about all the woes of the world.' The Lifestyle Factor: What Makes Dubai a Celebrity Magnet Here's why Dubai is the perfect mix of excess and ease for the world's most famous faces: Luxury Real Estate & Hotels: From villas on Palm Jumeirah to serviced apartments in Downtown Dubai, the real estate is glamorous and private. Celebrities also love hotels like, Atlantis The Royal, The Address Dubai Mall and Burj Al Arab. Dining: Where Ceviche Meets Salt Bae, Dubai's food scene is elite, literally. Stars are regulars at The Nusr-Et Steakhouse, made famous by Salt Bae (Rosette Ncwana posted her dining experience there). Coya, a Peruvian-Asian-Middle Eastern fusion spot at Four Seasons, beloved for ceviche, beef ribs, and Instagrammable mocktails like Purple Rain. Designer Malls & Desert Snow: From The Dubai Mall to Mall of the Emirates, shopping is a cultural event here. While Bonang was gifted luxury items during her stay, others skied at Ski Dubai or explored homegrown and designer brands across the city.
Arabian Business
12-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Dubai welcomes 7.15m visitors in first 4 months of 2025 as tourism sector powers ahead
Dubai's tourism sector continues its record-breaking momentum in 2025, with the city welcoming 7.15m international overnight visitors between January and April — a 7 per cent year-on-year increase, according to updates shared at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism's (DET) first City Briefing of the year. Held at the Coca-Cola Arena, the bi-annual briefing gathered more than 1,300 stakeholders from the hospitality, aviation, retail, and F&B sectors, along with key government representatives. Issam Kazim, CEO of Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: 'Building on yet another record-breaking performance in 2024, the exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 is a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners. 'In advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, our focus remains on strengthening the spirit of partnerships, embracing innovation, and creating future-ready experiences that enhance Dubai's position as the world's best city to visit, live and work in. 'As we look ahead to the second half of this year and beyond, we will harness the key elements that have driven the industry's steady growth – a robust and diversified market strategy, a solid collaboration model between the government and private sectors, and global campaigns showcasing the ever-evolving diverse destination offering.' Dubai tourism briefing highlights 7.15m visitors in the first four months of 2025 Follows 18.72m visitors in 2024, the second consecutive year of record growth The city is now the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere More than 70,000 individuals trained in sensory awareness More than 300 hotels participating in the accessibility certification programme Launch of 'MyDubai Communities', a digital platform to promote coexistence Major 2025 campaigns launched: 'Dubai. That's How You Summer' 'Find Your Story' starring Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 Returns The event confirmed the return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) from June 27 to August 31, structured across three key retail periods: Summer Holiday Offers The Great Summer Sale Back to School DSS 2025 will feature city-wide sales, raffles, cultural shows, and entertainment tailored for residents and tourists alike. MICHELIN Guide expansion The city food scene continues to evolve, with 1,200 new restaurant licences issued in 2024. The fourth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai includes: 119 restaurants across 35 cuisines (+12.3 per cent YoY) 2 restaurants with 3 MICHELIN Stars: FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio 3 restaurants with 2 Stars, 14 with 1 Star, and 22 Bib Gourmand venues 3 restaurants awarded the MICHELIN Green Star for sustainability Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: 'Dubai's vibrant calendar of festivals and events reflects our city's bold vision and boundless ambition – a testament to our commitment to innovation, excellence, and global leadership. 'These world-class experiences are not only a key driver of visitation but also vital to nurturing the pillars of our economy, from retail and hospitality to aviation and business events.'
Gulf Business
12-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Dubai: DET briefing highlights growth, new campaigns and community initiatives
Image: Dubai Media Office The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism ( The event, held at the Coca-Cola Arena, forms part of DET's bi-annual platform to align public and private sector efforts to sustain the city's tourism momentum. Reflecting the UAE's Year of Community theme, the briefing underlined the role of collaboration in achieving Dubai's tourism growth. Stakeholders shared insights to support DET's strategic roadmap, with the goal of reinforcing Dubai's global appeal as both a leisure and business destination. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, led the session, which provided updates on Dubai's tourism performance, upcoming campaigns and citywide initiatives aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. Tourism milestones Dubai welcomed 7.15 million international overnight visitors from January to April 2025, a 7 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. The city received 18.72 million visitors last year, marking a second consecutive year of record tourism performance. Dubai's hotel sector reported 153,534 available rooms by end-April, with all key performance metrics posting year-on-year gains. 'The exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 is a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners,' said Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). 'It is by coming together as a community that we have been able to navigate challenges, create compelling narratives about the city, and drive global trends.' Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said the city's year-round events continue to serve as key economic drivers, attracting visitors and supporting sectors such as retail and hospitality. 'These world-class experiences are vital to nurturing the pillars of our economy and are a reflection of Dubai's bold vision and global ambition,' he said. Read: DET: New initiatives and campaigns The event highlighted Dubai's designation as the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere. In partnership with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), DET has trained more than 70,000 individuals through the Dubai College of Tourism, while over 300 hotels have taken steps to enhance accessibility for neurodivergent visitors. Also spotlighted was the 'MyDubai Communities' platform, launched by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in April. The digital initiative aims to strengthen social cohesion by connecting residents through more than 100 interest-based groups. DET's new summer campaign, 'Dubai. That's How You Summer' , was unveiled during the briefing, positioning the city as a vibrant seasonal destination. Another campaign, 'Find Your Story' , launched earlier this year and features Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi exploring Dubai's blend of desert adventure and futuristic architecture. Culinary growth and events calendar Dubai's food scene continues to be a tourism growth engine. The 2025 MICHELIN Guide Dubai, published in May, included 119 restaurants across 35 cuisines – a 12.3 per cent increase from 2024 – and featured the city's first three-starred restaurants: FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio. Looking ahead, the return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) was confirmed for June 27 to August 31. Structured into three phases – Summer Holiday Offers, The Great Summer Sale, and Back to School – DSS is expected to drive retail engagement and footfall throughout the summer. Dubai's retail calendar will also include Dubai Home Festival, Dubai Fitness Challenge and Dubai Shopping Festival in the latter half of the year, alongside a growing line-up of international business events. The City Briefing concluded with a call for continued stakeholder engagement to sustain Dubai's momentum as a leading global tourism and business hub.
Economy ME
11-06-2025
- Business
- Economy ME
Dubai welcomes 7.15 million tourists in first four months of 2025, up 7 percent
Dubai welcomed 7.15 million international overnight tourists between January and April 2025, a 7 percent annual increase. This growth builds on the 18.72 million people who visited in 2024, the second consecutive year of record-setting growth for the city. During its first City Briefing of 2025, the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) also revealed that the city's hotel sector offered 153,534 rooms at the end of April, with all key performance indicators demonstrating strong annual growth. 'Building on yet another record-breaking performance in 2024, the exceptional results achieved by the industry so far in 2025 are a testament to the resilience and steadfast support of our stakeholders and partners. From hospitality and aviation to retail and gastronomy, every sector has played a critical role in solidifying Dubai's position as a global tourism leader. It is by coming together as a community that we have been able to navigate challenges, create compelling narratives about the city, and drive global trends,' stated His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). Briefing outlines strategic priorities for the year Held at the Coca-Cola Arena, the briefing brought together more than 1,300 industry leaders and professionals from across the hospitality, aviation, retail and F&B sectors, along with representatives from Dubai government entities, reaffirming DET's commitment to creating a resilient and future-ready ecosystem for tourists. Reflecting the UAE Year of Community's focus on building a connected society grounded in belonging and shared purpose, the briefing highlighted the critical role that partners across the public and private sectors are playing in Dubai's continued tourism performance. The latest edition provided a comprehensive update on the city's tourism performance, campaigns, festivals and events, and strategic priorities for the year ahead. The City Briefing serves as a pivotal instrument to align stakeholders with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and further enhance shared responsibility in propelling Dubai's development as a welcoming global destination. 'In advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, our focus remains on strengthening the spirit of partnerships, embracing innovation, and creating future-ready experiences that enhance Dubai's position as the world's best city to visit, live and work in. We are also collectively driving initiatives that enhance social inclusion, talent development and quality of life, while strengthening community bonds, promoting values, and instilling a sense of belonging,' added Kazim. Dubai advances accessibility and community initiatives The City Briefing highlighted key initiatives that reinforce Dubai's contribution to community, accessibility and sustainability. Central to these efforts is the city's achievement in becoming the first Certified Autism Destination in the Eastern Hemisphere. Under DET's leadership, in collaboration with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the initiative has already involved the training of more than 70,000 individuals through the Dubai College of Tourism's autism and sensory awareness course. Meanwhile, more than 300 hotels in Dubai have actively engaged in the certification process to deliver accessible experiences to all tourists. This milestone directly aligns with the D33 Agenda's key priorities of enhancing social inclusion, talent development and quality of life. Another significant project that was highlighted at the event was the launch of the 'MyDubai Communities' digital platform in April. The initiative is designed to strengthen community bonds and promote the values of tolerance and coexistence, offering access to more than 100 interest-based communities. These groups provide users with a unique opportunity to connect over shared passions and interests, fostering a sense of belonging and creativity. 'The Certified Autism Destination and MyDubai Communities programs are both testaments to our collective drive to shape a future-ready society. These initiatives not only enhance Dubai's destination offering – they speak to the heart of our identity as a city built on opportunity, diversity and strong community values, ensuring a richer experience for both residents and visitors,' Kazim added. Dubai's festival landscape vital in attracting tourists His Excellency Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), also presented at the City Briefing and spoke about how Dubai's robust year-round calendar of events and festivals continues to be a vital component in attracting tourists. The return of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS) – the city's much-anticipated summer festival – was announced at the briefing. Taking place from June 27 to August 31, DSS will deliver a vibrant calendar of sales, prize draws, entertainment and cultural experiences for residents and visitors of all ages. This year's DSS will also be structured into three retail periods – Summer Holiday Offers, The Great Summer Sale, and Back to School – to drive consumer engagement and maintain momentum. In the second half of 2025, other major upcoming events on the city's annual Retail Calendar include Dubai Home Festival, Dubai Fitness Challenge, and Dubai Shopping Festival. A growing pipeline of international business events, which attract thousands of delegates, was also announced at the City Briefing, reflecting Dubai's status as a premier destination for meetings and exhibitions. 'Dubai's vibrant calendar of festivals and events reflects our city's bold vision and boundless ambition – a testament to our commitment to innovation, excellence, and global leadership. These world-class experiences are not only a key driver of visitation but also vital to nurturing the pillars of our economy, from retail and hospitality to aviation and business events. They continue to provide unique opportunities for our communities, including both visitors and residents, to enjoy the city's offerings and engage with key destination pillars,' Al Khaja added. Read: UAE tourists drive surge in Moscow arrivals with 62,100 visitors in 2024 Global gastronomy hub Dubai's food scene is a also key driver in attracting tourists, and as revealed in the Dubai Gastronomy Industry Report, published by DET, the city issued around 1,200 new restaurant licences in 2024. The fourth edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai, unveiled last month, reflects Dubai's fast-growing and diverse culinary scene. The 2025 Guide featured 119 restaurants across 35 cuisines, a 12.3 percent increase from 106 restaurants in 2024, including Dubai's first MICHELIN three-starred restaurants, FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio. This year's Guide also included 3 MICHELIN two-starred restaurants, 14 MICHELIN one-starred restaurants, 22 Bib Gourmand restaurants, and 3 restaurants awarded a MICHELIN Green Star. 'As we look ahead to the second half of this year and beyond, we will harness the key elements that have driven the industry's steady growth – a robust and diversified market strategy, a solid collaboration model between the government and private sectors, and global campaigns showcasing the ever-evolving diverse destination offering,' added Kazim.
Khaleej Times
10-06-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai records 7% growth in tourist arrivals in first four months, reaching 7.15 million
Dubai's hotel sector is showing robust forward bookings for the remainder of 2025, outperforming last year's figures as the emirate continues to attract a growing number of international visitors. Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), a division of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), shared this positive outlook during the inaugural Dubai Stakeholders City Briefing. 'We're confident the coming months will be even busier than previous years,' Kazim said. 'We're exploring every possible opportunity to sustain this upward momentum.' Dubai recorded 43.03 million occupied room nights in 2024 — up from 41.7 million in 2023 — marking a 3 per cent increase. Average hotel occupancy rose to 78.2 per cent in 2024, compared to 77.4 per cent the previous year. Kazim noted that the occupancy rate is expected to climb further to around 80 per cent in 2025. The city briefing, held at Coca-Cola Arena on Tuesday, brought together thousands of stakeholders from the hospitality, tourism, and related sectors. According to DET data, Dubai Marina led hotel occupancy in 2025, reaching 86 per cent, followed closely by Palm Jumeirah and Oud Metha at 85 per cent. Al Barsha recorded 84 per cent, Bur Dubai 83 per cent, Jumeirah and the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) 82 per cent, Deira and Jebel Ali 80 per cent, and Downtown Dubai at 77 per cent. Kazim emphasised Dubai's commitment to evolving its tourism offerings in line with global travel trends. 'When it comes to product development, we always aim to stay ahead. We're closely monitoring global trends and traveller preferences to ensure we meet and exceed expectations,' he said. 'Our collaboration with partners is key — we align the right plans with the right investors and stakeholders to deliver a world-class experience. When our strategy was launched, Dubai had about 66,000 hotel rooms. Today, that number has more than doubled to around 153,000.' Looking ahead, Kazim urged stakeholders to prepare for a further surge in tourist arrivals once the new Al Maktoum International Airport opens to passenger traffic. 7% growth in 4 months of 2025 After consecutive record-breaking years in 2023 and 2024, Dubai welcomed 5.31 million international visitors between January and March 2025—a 3% year-on-year increase. By the end of April, the total number of tourists reached 7.15 million, representing a 7 per cent growth compared to the same period in 2024, according to DET data. 'After the disruption of 2020, we surpassed our pre-pandemic visitor numbers in 2023. Then in 2024, we exceeded them once again,' Kazim noted. 'The 7 per cent year-on-year increase this year reflects our focused approach, especially in targeting underperforming markets with high potential.' The tourism chief concluded by stressing the importance of strategic market focus and continued innovation to maintain Dubai's competitive edge in global tourism.
