UAE leads MENA region and rises seven spots worldwide

The UAE has once again proven its dominance in the global tourism industry by securing first place regionally and 18th globally in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index 2024. This remarkable achievement marks a significant climb of seven places from its 25th global ranking in 2019.

H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, attributed this success to the forward-looking vision and directives of the country’s wise leadership. He emphasized that the UAE’s tourism sector continues to excel at both regional and international levels, reflecting the country’s leading position in the global tourism and travel landscape.

The UAE’s tourism strategy for 2031 aims to solidify the country’s position as the best tourist destination in the world by the next decade. H.E. Al Marri expressed confidence in the sector’s growth in 2024, citing pioneering tourism projects and initiatives that are being implemented, supported by the country’s sophisticated infrastructure and outstanding tourism products and services.

H.E. Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), commended the UAE’s success in strengthening its position as one of the most attractive and safe travel destinations globally. She highlighted the country’s effective and comprehensive strategy to enhance economic diversification under the directives of its wise leadership.

The UAE’s tourism sector’s significant growth in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, and its expected contribution to the country’s GDP in 2024 further solidify its position as a key pillar of the future economy. The country’s top rankings in various indicators of the Travel & Tourism Development Index underscore its competitiveness and resilience in the global tourism landscape.