UAE tourism sector contributes AED251.3bn to GDP as visitor spending surges

The UAE tourism sector generated AED251.3 billion for the national economy in 2025, marking a 3 percent increase from the previous year as the country accelerates its National Tourism Strategy 2031. Data released on Sunday, 27 September, confirms international visitor spending reached approximately AED209 billion during the same period. Strategic Growth and Infrastructure Milestones Passenger traffic through UAE airports surged to 156.8 million in 2025, a 6.1 percent rise from 147.8 million in 2024. Dubai International Airport maintained its status as the world’s busiest hub for international travellers, handling 95.2 million passengers. This aviation growth supported a hospitality sector that welcomed 32.34 million guests across 1,240 establishments, generating AED49.21 billion in revenue. The Ministry of Economy and Tourism has launched the 'UAE Grand Tour' platform to further integrate the seven emirates. The digital service provides 14-day itineraries designed to increase the length of stay for international visitors by connecting attractions across the federation under the unified 'Visit UAE' identity. Sustainability and Ecotourism Expansion Under the new National Ecotourism Policy, the UAE has designated 55 nature reserves and rehabilitated 4,900 hectares of deserts, mountains, and beaches. This shift focuses on balancing economic output with environmental conservation, a core pillar of the strategy to reach AED450 billion in GDP contribution by 2031. Timely domestic…