Dubai has succeeded in solidifying its standing as one of the most sought-after travel destinations globally. In the first half of 2025, the city received 9.88 million foreign overnight visitors, a 6% increase over the same period the previous year, according to data released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This accomplishment is the consequence of a clever fusion of the development of contemporary infrastructure, close cooperation between the public and private sectors, and the execution of international marketing campaigns.
The Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, underlined: “Dubai has cemented its position as a global center for business, investment, and tourism by offering tourists a variety of creative experiences. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s goal to make Dubai one of the most connected and desirable cities in the world is reflected in this success.
Additionally, he pointed out that the Dubai Economic Agenda D33’s implementation has made tourism a key driver of value creation and economic growth in the UAE’s many sectors.
DET data indicates that Dubai was successful in drawing travelers from all over the world:
This variety emphasizes Dubai’s appeal as a travel destination for both established and developing markets.
Dubai’s appeal was increased in large part by the diversification and growth of its hospitality portfolio. New hotels like Biltmore Villas Al Barsha, Vida Dubai Mall and Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab were opened in the first six months alone. The hotel’s performance was outstanding as well:
Dubai received a number of honors and recognitions in the first half of 2025:
In early 2025, Dubai launched a number of international campaigns with celebrities like Anushka Sharma, Virat Kohli, Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi. Visitor experiences were further improved by strategic alliances with top hospitality companies like Marriott, Hyatt and Premier Inn.
Over 127,000 people are anticipated to visit the city in the upcoming years as a result of the 249 international conferences and meetings that Dubai Business Events (DBE) was able to secure in the first half of 2025. This accomplishment has improved Dubai’s standing as the Middle East’s premier center for scientific and economic gatherings.
In 2025, Dubai’s dining establishments dominated the global scene:
Dubai is more than just a tourist destination; it is a global model of innovation, safety, cultural diversity, and sustainable development, as evidenced by its outstanding performance in the first half of 2025. Dubai is anticipated to emerge as one of the top destinations in the world for travel, residence, employment and investment with the ongoing execution of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
Source: https://www.propertynews.ae
