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Dubai has set a new record for international tourism, welcoming 18.72 million overnight visitors in 2024, marking a 9 per cent year-on-year increase.
This surge surpasses the previous record of 17.15 million set in 2023, according to data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
The significant growth in tourism is underpinned by impactful local and international partnerships, creative global campaigns, and major events. These efforts align with the goals of D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033.
Dubai’s remarkable performance also reflects its position as the number one city globally for foreign direct investment (FDI) into tourism, according to the Financial Times Ltd’s ‘fDi Markets’ data for H1 2024.
Key infrastructure projects, such as the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, further contribute to the city’s growth by enhancing the visitor experience and supporting future tourism expansion.
In yet another testament to Dubai’s growing appeal as a leading global tourism destination, the emirate welcomed 18.7 million international visitors in 2024, a 9% increase from 2023. The hospitality sector continues to thrive, recording an average hotel occupancy rate of 78%… pic.twitter.com/LmIdgzI9sY
— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 9, 2025
Dubai’s expanding visitor base from key regions
Tourism growth was further supported by DET’s global marketing activities, which targeted over 60 countries.
Dubai’s well-established partnerships with international players and its year-round campaigns showcased the city’s diverse offerings, increasing both visitor numbers and the number of people choosing to relocate to Dubai.
From a regional perspective, Dubai saw the highest growth in visitor numbers from North East and South East Asia (24 per cent), followed by Africa (20 per cent) and CIS and Eastern Europe (16 per cent). Western Europe remained the largest source region, with a 14 per cent increase in visitors.
Hotel sector performance
Dubai’s hotel sector also played a crucial role in its tourism success. By the end of December 2024, Dubai’s hotel inventory had expanded to 154,016 rooms across 832 establishments, compared to 150,291 rooms in 2023.
The city’s hotel occupancy rate rose to 78.2 per cent, up from 77.4 per cent in 2023.
The city’s hotel sector continued to outperform global peers, with average daily rates (ADR) remaining competitive.
The ADR for 2024 was Dhs538, a marginal increase from Dhs536 in 2023.
Revenue per available room (RevPAR) also rose 2 per cent, reaching Dhs421, compared to Dhs415 in 2023.
Global leader in tourism
Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), praised the contributions of Dubai’s partners and stakeholders in driving the city’s tourism growth.
“Our market strategy, built on bespoke campaigns, has been pivotal in showcasing Dubai’s diverse tourism offerings,” Kazim said.
In 2024, Dubai continued to attract international recognition, with the city being named the world’s leading shopping and exhibition destination at the 31st World Travel Awards.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) was also crowned the world’s leading airport, with 92.3 million passengers passing through in 2024.
Dubai’s focus on safety and accessibility further enhanced its appeal. The city ranked among the top five safest cities in the world and retained its position as the top destination for long-term remote workers, according to various global indices.
Successful events secure Dubai’s global status
The city’s tourism appeal was also boosted by a calendar of high-profile events, including the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which attracted 2.7 million participants, and the Dubai Shopping Festival, which marked its 30th edition.
Trade shows, such as GITEX Global, Gulfood, and Arabian Travel Market, attracted thousands of visitors and exhibitors.
Looking ahead, Dubai is committed to maintaining its tourism momentum, with extensive infrastructure developments already underway. Al Maktoum International Airport’s new Dhs128bn terminal will be the largest in the world when completed, while the Dubai Metro’s Blue Line extension will further enhance connectivity.
Read: Abu Dhabi Airports reports 28% growth in passenger traffic in 2024
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