Dubai has continued its strong tourism momentum into 2025, attracting 8.68 million international visitors between January and May—a 7% increase compared to the same period in 2024, which saw 8.12 million arrivals.
The latest Tourism Performance Report, released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), reveals that 1.53 million international visitors arrived in May alone, reinforcing the city’s growing appeal as a year-round global destination.
Key Source Markets Driving Growth
Western Europe remained Dubai’s largest source region, contributing 22% of total visitors, approximately 1.917 million tourists. Russia, the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), and Eastern Europe followed with 1.396 million visitors (16%).
South Asia accounted for 1.242 million tourists (14%), while the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region brought in 1.275 million (15%). The Middle East and North Africa delivered 989,000 visitors (11%), while Northeast and Southeast Asia contributed 771,000 (9%).
The Americas accounted for 7% of arrivals, with 601,000 visitors, followed by Africa with 346,000 (4%), and Australia with 141,000 (2%).
Hotel Sector Sees Continued Strength
Dubai’s hospitality sector also posted strong performance figures. By the end of May 2025, the city had hosted 825 hotel establishments, offering 153,356 rooms—an increase from 822 hotels and 150,202 rooms the previous year.
Hotel occupancy averaged 83% over the five months, up from 81% in 2024. Total occupied room nights reached 19.09 million, a 4% increase from 18.34 million the previous year.
The average length of stay remained stable at 3.8 nights per guest, while the average daily room rate increased to AED 620, a 5% rise over the previous year. Revenue per available room (RevPAR) rose by 7%, reaching AED 513 compared to AED 478 in the same period in 2024.
Strategic Positioning Continues to Deliver
Dubai’s sustained tourism growth reflects the city’s successful positioning as a preferred international destination, bolstered by diverse source markets, expanding hospitality offerings, and a robust events and business calendar. As the year progresses, Dubai remains on track to surpass previous tourism benchmarks, further cementing its status as a global tourism hub.
–Input WAM
