Abu Dhabi hotels achieve US$185.7M revenue in May 2025 Amid growing international guests

UAE –  Hotel establishments in Abu Dhabi recorded total revenues of AED682 million (US$185.7 million) in May 2025, driven by higher occupancy rates and an increasing number of international visitors.

This underscores the emirate’s thriving tourism sector.

According to preliminary data from the Department of Culture and Tourism-Abu Dhabi, released by the Statistics Centre – Abu Dhabi, this revenue reflects sustained growth in hospitality, supported by diversified accommodation options and exceptional service standards.

The breakdown includes AED408 million (US$111.2 million) from room revenues, AED224 million (US$61.0 million) from food and beverage services, and AED50 million (US$13.6 million) from other sources.

In May 2025, Abu Dhabi’s hotels welcomed approximately 481,000 guests, highlighting its increasing global appeal.

Guests from non-Arab Asian countries led with 155,000 visitors, followed by Europeans at 112,000 and UAE nationals at 88,000. Other markets include 31,000 from GCC, 52,000 from other Arab nations, 25,000 from the Americas, and 8,000 from non-Arab African countries.

A total of 172 hotel establishments were operational, offering 34,383 rooms.

The total guest nights surpassed 1.345 million, with an impressive 80% occupancy rate.

The average revenue per available room (RevPAR) reached AED490 (US$133.5), reflecting robust demand and effective revenue strategies.

Five-star hotels attracted 236,000 guests, including 72,000 Europeans. Four-star hotels hosted 126,000, while three-star and below accommodated 70,000 guests.

Additionally, 50,000 guests stayed in hotel apartments, showcasing diverse accommodations.

Market reports indicate Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector is on track to reach AED62 billion contribution to the economy in 2025, supporting 255,000 jobs.

In Q1 2025, hotels generated AED2.3 billion revenue, an 18% increase year-on-year, with a 79% occupancy rate and RevPAR of AED484 (US$132).

Abu Dhabi’s Stopover Programme with Etihad Airways boosted tourism, recording a 76% increase in stopover visitors in early 2025, contributing to the growth in hotel demand and visitor volumes.

Furthermore, Abu Dhabi hosted 1.4 million overnight guests in Q1 2025, reflecting steady inflows from key markets like India, China, Russia, the UK, and the US.

The emirate’s focus on culture-led tourism, luxury offerings, and improved connectivity enhances its global competitiveness .

Sustainability and innovation are priorities, with hotels investing in eco-friendly practices and enhanced guest experiences.

Abu Dhabi’s strategic marketing campaigns and infrastructure improvements continue to attract high-value travellers, underpinning the hospitality sector’s resilience.

Overall, the strong May 2025 results further establish Abu Dhabi as a world-class tourism destination, attracting a diverse international audience and delivering varied, high-quality hospitality experiences.

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