Dubai has recorded a notable increase in international overnight visitors, welcoming 9.31 million tourists from January to June 2024, marking a 9 percent rise from the 8.55 million visitors during the same period in 2023. This growth continues the city’s impressive tourism performance from 2023, when Dubai hosted a record 17.15 million international visitors.
The sustained rise in tourism reflects Dubai’s ongoing momentum, driven by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasized that Dubai’s tourism sector is setting global standards and continues to offer rich and memorable experiences for travelers. He highlighted the importance of expanding partnerships and exploring new opportunities to enhance Dubai’s global appeal.
Dubai’s tourism success is attributed to effective public-private partnerships and strategic campaigns that have strengthened its position as a premier global destination. The city’s accomplishments were recognized globally, with Dubai being named the No.1 global destination for the third consecutive year by Tripadvisor and receiving accolades as the Middle East’s leading destination and airport.
The first half of 2024 saw Dubai’s hospitality sector performing exceptionally well, with high occupancy rates, increased revenue per available room (RevPAR), and notable new hotel openings. Key source markets include Western Europe, South Asia, and the GCC, with significant growth from North-East and South-East Asia.
Dubai’s status as a global gastronomy hub was reaffirmed with the third edition of the MICHELIN Guide Dubai, which highlighted 106 restaurants, and the city’s cruise sector also saw a boost with numerous ship calls and the establishment of the Cruise Arabia alliance.
The city is also advancing in inclusivity, aiming to become the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere. Dubai’s sustainability initiatives, including the Dubai Can campaign and the Dubai Reef project, underscore its commitment to environmental stewardship and long-term goals.
Dubai’s dynamic and growing tourism sector continues to attract global attention, setting new benchmarks and reinforcing its reputation as a world-leading destination for both business and leisure.
