Dubai attracts 9.88M international visitors in H1 2025, marking 6% growth via strong partnerships, marketing – DET

UAE – Dubai’s tourism sector has recorded a remarkable milestone by welcoming 9.88 million international overnight visitors during the first half of 2025.

This translates to a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024, underlining Dubai’s growing appeal as a top global destination, according to data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, highlighted that Dubai’s continuous record-breaking visitation is a clear outcome of the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The city’s strategic goal to become a major international business and tourism hub has been realized through innovative infrastructure and exceptional experiences.

Sheikh Hamdan emphasized Dubai’s status as the world’s most connected city, combining seamless transport, modern facilities, and unique attractions.

The city’s dedication to offering compelling experiences adapts to the evolving needs of its visitors, elevating Dubai’s position as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.

Tourism remains a driving force in the emirate’s economy, aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, aiming to boost GDP and cross-sector value creation.

By anticipating and exceeding the expectations of travelers, Dubai continually strengthens its reputation as the best city globally to visit, live, and work in.

DET’s success is built on strong public-private partnerships, a robust global marketing strategy, and high-profile events.

The department collaborates with more than 3,000 global and domestic partners, targeting key markets worldwide.

Visitor demographics show that the GCC and MENA markets contribute 26% of total arrivals, with the GCC generating 1.51 million visitors (15%) and MENA 1.12 million visitors (11%).

Western Europe remains the largest individual source market, contributing 2.12 million visitors (22%). Other significant markets include CIS and Eastern Europe (15%), South Asia (15%), and Asia (9%).

Dubai’s hospitality sector continues to thrive with an average hotel occupancy rate of 80.6 percent, up from 78.7 percent in the first half of 2024.

The city’s diverse calendar of cultural, entertainment, and business events, along with new retail and leisure developments, keeps attracting visitors year-round.

This strong tourism growth, combined with visionary leadership, collaborative partnerships, and ongoing innovation, firmly establishes Dubai as a premier global tourism destination and business hub.

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