Dubai sees tourism grow 3% in first...

UAE city attracts 5.31 million international visitors with western Europe the biggest source market

Following back-to-back years of record growth, Dubai welcomed 5.31 million international visitors in Q1, up 3% on the same period last year, according to the latest figures from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

DET says the growth reflects Dubai’s global stature as a top tourism destination, and builds on the 9% increase in 2024 that saw total international overnight visitors reach 18.72 million.

His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, said the sustained growth of the tourism sector "continues to be vital not only through its direct economic impact, but as a pathway to investment, talent and businesses into the city".

Western Europe was Dubai’s biggest source market from January to March 2025, with 1.15 million visitors, marking a 22% overall share. This was followed by CIS and Eastern Europe with 891,000 (17%) and GCC with 772,000 visitors (15%).

South Asia and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) were fourth and fifth, accounting for 752,000 (14%) and 620,000 (12%) visitors, respectively.

During the quarter, the Average Daily Rate (ADR) rose 2% year-on-year to AED647, while occupied room nights at 11.19 million, and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) at AED528, were on a par with 2024.

DET is the Destination Partner for ATM, which is being held at Dubai World Trade Centre under the theme ‘Global Travel: Developing Tomorrow’s Tourism Through Enhanced Connectivity’ and expects to welcome a record 55,000 attendees.

More than 125 key partners will join DET on its stand at the show, including hotels, destination management companies, tour operators and attractions.

In Q1 2025, DET continued to build key partnerships, including with travel tech giant Amadeus, as well as hospitality groups Premier Inn Middle East and Hyatt Hotels. What's more, Dubai College of Tourism, part of DET, collaborated with Marriott International to launch a new Hospitality Apprenticeship Programme for Emiratis.

“By working closely with stakeholders within Dubai and our global partners, we are not only enhancing the visitor experience, but also driving economic growth as well as innovation and entrepreneurship in the sector,” said His Excellency Issam Kazim.

For more information, visit www.dubaidet.gov.ae/en

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