Dubai recorded 9.88 million international overnight visitors in the first half of 2025, reflecting a 6% year-on-year growth, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This growth highlights the emirate’s rising global appeal, supported by strong public-private partnerships and a comprehensive international marketing strategy.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum noted, “Dubai continues to set new records in international visitation, reinforcing the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum… Dubai offers a model of excellence in the tourism and hospitality sectors grounded in innovation.”
The emirate’s tourism performance is aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, where tourism plays a central role in economic diversification and growth.
The data indicates that the GCC and MENA regions accounted for a combined 26% of visitors, while Western Europe led individual markets with 22%. Growth was observed across regions, including South Asia, Eastern Europe, the Americas, and Southeast Asia.
Dubai’s accommodation offering expanded with several new openings in H1 2025, and more are expected, including the Mandarin Oriental Downtown and Ciel Dubai Marina, which is set to be the world’s tallest hotel.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director-General of DET, stated, “Dubai’s strong tourism performance… reflects the enduring strength and adaptability of our economic model… Our response has been both deliberate and future-focused.”
Global marketing campaigns featuring international personalities have further boosted visitation, while strategic partnerships with major hospitality groups aim to enhance visitor experience and capacity.
Issam Kazim, CEO of DCTCM, added, “Guided by visionary leadership… Dubai has become even more accessible, with a robust infrastructure and a business-friendly environment…”
Dubai also received recognition as the first Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere and was ranked as the world’s safest city for solo female travellers in a study by InsureMyTrip. The town also received global accolades in the 2025 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards.
Dubai Business Events (DBE) secured 249 successful bids for international conferences, expected to attract over 127,000 delegates in the coming years.
From January to June 2025, hotel occupancy averaged 80.6%, with a rise in ADR and RevPAR. The number of hotel rooms reached 152,483 across 822 establishments.
Dubai’s gastronomy sector also saw global recognition. The 2025 MICHELIN Guide featured 119 restaurants, including Dubai’s first three-starred venues. Trèsind Studio was named the Middle East’s best restaurant and ranked No. 27 globally, while Orfali Bros returned to the top 50.
–Input WAM
