WTTC reveals that Travel & Tourism in the UAE has reached new heights

International arrivals at Abu Dhabi and Dubai saw a significant increase last year, surpassing 2019 numbers by more than 9%. The World Travel & Tourism Council’s 2024 Economic Impact Research report highlighted the exceptional performance of the UAE’s Travel & Tourism sector in 2023.

The report revealed that the sector’s GDP contribution reached a record-breaking AED 220 billion, representing 11.7% of the entire economy. This marked a 26% growth from the previous year and exceeded the 2019 record by almost 15%. Additionally, the sector supported over 809,000 jobs, with a 41,000 increase from the previous year.

Both domestic and international visitor spending saw significant growth, with domestic spending reaching AED 55.5 billion and international spending surpassing AED 175 billion. This surge in visitor spending reflects the enduring appeal of the UAE as a top global tourism destination.

Julia Simpson, President & CEO of WTTC, praised the UAE’s Travel & Tourism sector for its remarkable growth, emphasizing the country’s strategic vision and commitment to enhancing the industry. The forecast for 2024 projects further growth, with GDP expected to reach over AED 236 billion and job opportunities increasing by more than 23,500.

The Middle Eastern Travel & Tourism sector also experienced substantial growth in 2023, reaching almost $460 billion USD. International arrivals at Abu Dhabi and Dubai exceeded pre-pandemic levels, showcasing the region’s resilience and attractiveness to global travelers.

Looking ahead, WTTC predicts continued growth in the sector, with GDP contribution expected to reach $507 billion USD in 2024. The positive outlook for the Travel & Tourism industry in the UAE and the wider Middle East underscores the importance of sustainable strategies in driving economic prosperity and job creation.