The UAE continues to solidify its position as a prime destination for tourism investment.
It benefits from the attractive investment environment and advanced infrastructure.
As well as the supportive policies that promote the growth of the sector.
Green Economy
The UAE’s tourism sector is witnessing an expansion of investment opportunities across all areas.
From infrastructure, to hotels and resorts, entertainment projects, and sustainable tourism ventures.
All aligns with the country’s vision for a green economy.
Government entities continue to support the tourism sector.
This is through the implementing of innovative initiatives to develop tourist destinations, foster innovation, and collaborate with the private sector to ensure the highest standards of quality and excellence.
National Tourism Strategy 2031
Through its National Tourism Strategy 2031, the UAE aims to strengthen its status among the world’s top tourist destinations.
The strategy targets an increase in the sector’s contribution to GDP to AED 450 billion.
It also targets the attraction of AED 100 billion in new investments, and hosting 40 million hotel guests by 2031.
Last year, the UAE achieved remarkable growth rates and major accomplishments in the tourism sector.
Hotel revenues reached nearly AED 45 billion — a 3% increase compared to 2023.
While hotel occupancy rates rose to 78%, one of the highest regionally and globally.
UAE Ranking in Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024
The UAE ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 18th globally in Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024 issued by the World Economic Forum.
According to global consultancy Arthur D. Little, the UAE has not only built some of the world’s most luxurious hotels.
But has also succeeded in integrating hospitality with cultural and entertainment experiences.
Tourism officials and experts have stated that the sector still holds vast potential, noting that major projects.
Whether within the tourism industry itself or across other sectors — can drive growth and enhance the attractiveness of tourism investment.
A Global Tourism and Investment Destination.
Mohammed Al Rais, Chairman of Dubai Travel and Tourism Agents Working Group and CEO of Al Rais Travel, said:
The UAE has seen numerous pioneering and exceptional tourism projects over the past few years.
Bringing the sector to a leading position regionally in terms of tourist experiences and to global prominence in many tourism-related fields.
He emphasized that the UAE continues to establish itself as a global tourism and investment destination.
Through major projects taking place across the emirates — a reflection of investor confidence in the sustainable growth potential of the tourism sector.
The UAE tourism sector encompasses the following:
- Leisure tourism
- Business and conference tourism
- Medical tourism
Along with projects in every emirate falling into one or more of these categories.
This demonstrates a comprehensive strategic vision for the diversification of the country’s tourism offering.
Tourism as A Nationwide Trend
Al Rais added that current and upcoming mega-projects launched by the UAE send a clear message to investors that the country’s tourism sector continues to offer numerous opportunities.
As it has strong revenue-generating potential and can accommodate more high-quality investments.
He noted that the tourism project momentum is not limited to a specific emirate, but rather reflects a nationwide trend.
This surge in tourism investment serves as a major driving force, attracting both residents and tourists alike.
Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, and Niamh Smith, Minister for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence, and Digital Transformation of Ireland, signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Abu Dhabi. The agreement aims to enhance economic and… pic.twitter.com/qRtJ80v8Ls
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) April 11, 2025
The UAE Leading Expansion in Tourism Investment
Hosni Abdel Hadi, CEO of Carlton Hotels UAE, confirmed that the strong momentum in the tourism sector reflects a clear leadership vision to reinforce the country’s position as an integrated global tourism and investment hub.
He pointed out that ongoing expansions in tourism and hotel infrastructure projects are boosting investor confidence.
Besides opening new avenues for growth.
He added that the mega-projects underway across the country — including airports, major tourist destinations like artificial islands, and cultural landmarks — show that the UAE is not merely maintaining its achievements.
But confidently advancing toward a more developed and diversified tourism future.
He concluded: “Today, we are witnessing notable growth in demand for hospitality from various global markets, driven by the country’s stability and the diversity of its tourism offerings.”
