Dubai recorded an exceptional 9.88 million international overnight visitors between January and June 2025, reflecting a 6% rise year-on-year, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The increase further establishes Dubai’s growing status as a global tourism and commercial powerhouse.
Advancing Dubai’s D33 vision
The boost in tourist numbers supports the goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which seeks to position the city as a key economic engine by attracting residents, investors, and enterprises through tourism development.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, praised the achievement, citing the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
“Dubai’s steady growth as a focal point for trade, investment, talent and opportunity and its rise as the world’s most connected city,” Sheikh Hamdan said. “Dubai’s ability to create compelling experiences that meet the evolving needs of visitors has strengthened its status as one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.”
Visitor growth across global regions
DET’s statistics showed widespread growth across major markets. Western Europe led the way with 2.1 million travellers (22%), while CIS and Eastern Europe, along with South Asia, each contributed 15%. The GCC and MENA regions together made up 26% of arrivals, bringing in 1.51 million and 1.12 million visitors respectively. Additional arrivals came from North East and South East Asia (9%), the Americas (7%), Africa (4%), and Australasia (2%).
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, attributed the resilience of the tourism sector to proactive strategies, despite global headwinds.
“Our focus on enhancing visitor experiences through technology, investing in luxury and wellness, and promoting cultural exchange has kept Dubai on an upward trajectory,” Almarri said.
Hotels report higher occupancy and revenues
Dubai’s hospitality industry also recorded impressive figures. Average hotel occupancy rose to 80.6% in H1 2025, up from 78.7% the previous year.
Room nights reached 22.24 million, with guests staying an average of 3.71 nights. The average daily rate climbed by 5% to $159 (AED 584), while RevPAR increased by 7% to $128.2 (AED 471).
By mid-2025, the emirate offered 152,483 hotel rooms across 822 properties, including new entries like Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, Cheval Maison in Expo City, The Biltmore Hotel Villas, and Vida Dubai Mall.
