In 2023, UAE tourism industry added $59.89 billion to GDP and created 809,000 jobs

The UAE tourism sector is set to continue its impressive growth trajectory in 2024, with projections indicating a significant increase in its contribution to the country’s GDP and job opportunities. According to recent data, the sector contributed AED220 billion ($59.89 billion) to the UAE’s GDP in 2023, accounting for 11.7 percent of the overall economy. This contribution is expected to rise to AED236 billion ($64.25 billion) in 2024, representing 12 percent of the GDP.

Khaled Al Midfa, chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), highlighted the sector’s pivotal role in generating 809,000 job opportunities across various tourism activities and fields in the UAE in 2023. Projections suggest that the number of job opportunities will increase to 833,000 in 2024, showcasing the sector’s potential for job creation and economic growth.

Al Midfa also shared insights into the UAE Tourism Strategy, which aims to further boost the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP. The strategy sets ambitious targets, including reaching AED450 billion by 2031, attracting AED100 billion in new investment, and welcoming 40 million guests to the UAE’s hotels in the next decade. These goals reflect the government’s commitment to positioning the UAE as a leading global tourism destination.

In addition to its economic impact, the UAE’s tourism sector has also made significant strides in global rankings. The country recently claimed the top position in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and secured the 18th spot globally in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) report. The UAE’s score improved by 4.4 percent in the 2024 index, moving up seven places from its previous ranking in 2021.

The TTDI report evaluates 119 economies based on various factors, including the enabling environment for tourism, travel and tourism policy and infrastructure, services, natural and cultural resources, and sustainability. The UAE’s rise in the global rankings underscores its commitment to enhancing the tourism sector’s competitiveness and attractiveness to visitors from around the world.

Overall, the outlook for the UAE’s tourism sector in 2024 is promising, with continued growth expected in terms of economic contribution, job opportunities, and global recognition. As the country works towards achieving its ambitious targets outlined in the Tourism Strategy, stakeholders in the industry can look forward to a thriving and dynamic tourism landscape in the years to come.