UAE tops MENA region in WEF’s 2024 tourism and travel development index

The UAE has once again proven its dominance in the tourism sector, ranking first in the MENA region and 18th globally in the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI) 2024. This achievement highlights the country’s continuous growth in the tourism industry, as stated by Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council.

Al Marri emphasized that these accomplishments are in line with the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to establish the country as the top tourist destination in the world within the next decade. He expressed confidence in the sector’s growth in 2024, attributing it to the innovative tourism projects and initiatives being implemented in the country.

Hanan Ahli, Managing Director of the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre (FCSC), praised the UAE for leading in various tourism indicators, such as travel and tourism data provision and air transport infrastructure. The report also revealed the country’s high rankings in infrastructure, services, and policy.

In 2023, the UAE’s tourism sector experienced a significant 26% year-on-year growth, surpassing pre-pandemic levels by 14% and contributing AED 220 billion to the GDP. The sector’s contribution is expected to increase further in 2024, reaching AED 236 billion and accounting for 12% of the GDP, according to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

With its world-class infrastructure and exceptional tourism offerings, the UAE continues to attract visitors from around the globe, solidifying its position as a leading tourism destination.