UAE’s tourism economy expected to contribute nearly 13% to national GDP

The United Arab Emirates‘ (UAE) travel and tourism sector is projected to contribute approximately $72.2 billion to the national economy in 2025, representing nearly 13% of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

Record-breaking international visitor spend

International visitor spending is expected to hit $61.7 billion, a 37% increase compared to 2019, setting a new benchmark for the country. This growth reflects the UAE’s strengthening position as a global tourism hub.

Domestic tourism is also growing, with local spending projected at $16.2 billion, a 47% rise from 2019 levels, highlighting a solid domestic travel market.

Посмотреть эту публикацию в Instagram

Публикация от Travel Tomorrow (@traveltomorrow.eu)

Employment growth in the tourism sector 

The travel and tourism industry is expected to support over 925,000 jobs by the end of 2025, highlighting its significance as a major employment sector in the UAE. This represents a substantial increase from the 898,600 jobs supported in 2024.

Strategic initiatives driving growth

This upward trajectory is credited to the UAE’s long-term strategic programmes, such as the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter. These initiatives focus on sustainability, technological innovation, and enriching visitor experiences. Investments in smart cities, cutting-edge infrastructure, and smooth international connectivity have enhanced the country’s tourism profile.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, remarked, “The UAE continues to lead the way in global travel and tourism. From cutting-edge smart cities to exceptional hospitality and seamless visa systems, the country is a model of how strategic vision drives economic growth.”

WTTC forecasts indicate that by 2035, the sector could contribute up to $77.7 billion, or 10.4% of the national GDP. Job creation is also projected to exceed 1 million roles, further solidifying the sector’s strategic importance.

The UAE’s continued focus on innovation and sustainability positions it as a leader in global travel, offering a strong model for tourism-driven economic growth.

Redefining culture and leisure in the UAE

The UAE’s commitment to cultural and entertainment advancements is evident in recent developments. Abu Dhabi has announced a $10 billion tourism strategy aimed at boosting visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030. This plan includes expanding hotel room availability from 34,000 in 2023 to 52,000 by 2030 and enhancing the holiday home segment to diversify accommodation options.

Additionally, the introduction of new attractions, such as the TeamLab Phenomena in Abu Dhabi, which opened on April 18, 2025, showcases the UAE’s dedication to merging art, science, and technology. This 17,000 square-meter exhibition offers dynamic, multisensory experiences that respond to visitors’ movements, further enriching the cultural landscape 

Ver esta publicação no Instagram

Uma publicação partilhada por Travel Tomorrow (@traveltomorrow.eu)

In a significant entertainment development, The Walt Disney Company has announced plans for a new theme park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, in partnership with Miral. Slated to open in the early 2030s, this park will be Disney’s most technologically advanced offering yet, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s future-oriented development and further solidifying the UAE’s position as a global entertainment destination.

The UAE’s strategic investments and initiatives in the travel and tourism sector are yielding substantial economic benefits. With record-breaking international visitor spending, significant employment growth, and ambitious cultural and entertainment projects, the UAE is reinforcing its status as a leading global tourism hub.