Dubai experienced a record-breaking year, attracting 18.72 million international overnight visitors between January and December 2024. This marked a 9% increase from 17.15 million visitors in 2023, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum praised this achievement. He highlighted the strategic vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, embodied in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. The agenda aims to position Dubai as a leading global hub for business and leisure.
“This success reflects strong leadership and collaboration between public and private sectors,” Sheikh Hamdan stated. “We remain dedicated to sustaining growth through innovation, infrastructure development, talent acquisition, and market diversification.” He emphasized Dubai’s ongoing focus on attracting global talent and expanding foreign investment.
Strategic partnerships, creative global campaigns, and major events contributed to Dubai’s record-breaking tourism year. The city’s efforts align with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the economy by 2033.
Dubai’s tourism growth also builds on its top global ranking for foreign direct investment (FDI) into tourism. Key infrastructure projects, such as expanding Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), further support growth and enhance visitor experiences.
The DET collaborated with public and private sector partners to improve Dubai’s diverse offerings. Continuous market engagement in more than 60 countries and year-round marketing campaigns positioned Dubai as a must-visit destination.
Resilience of Dubai
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of DET, noted Dubai’s resilience and ability to navigate global challenges. “Careful planning and agile policy implementation have driven tourism growth,” he said. “This success fuels Dubai’s broader economic growth strategy.” He highlighted Dubai’s focus on adapting and innovating across industries.
STR data revealed Dubai’s hotel inventory outpaced major global cities like New York and Bangkok. Upcoming properties, including Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab and Mandarin Oriental Downtown, will meet growing demand.
Performance on key hotel metrics remained robust. Average occupancy rose to 78.2%, up from 77.4% in 2023. Occupied room nights reached 43.03 million, representing 3% growth.
Creative global campaigns included ‘Dubai, What’s Not To Love?’ and ‘If You Go, You Know.’ Tailored campaigns featured global personalities such as Bollywood stars Saif and Sara Ali Khan.
DET’s strategic partnerships with Emirates, IHG, Hilton, and Emaar Hospitality enhanced the destination experience. Collaborations with celebrities like J.Balvin and Mr. Beast expanded Dubai’s global reach.
Dubai’s outstanding tourism and hospitality achievements position the city as a global leader, driving sustainable growth and innovation.
