Dubai’s tourism sector closed 2025 on a historic high, welcoming 19.59 million international overnight visitors, a 5 percent increase from 2024 and the third consecutive year of record-setting growth, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
The milestone was underscored by December’s performance, when the city received more than 2 million visitors in a single month for the first time, signalling strong momentum heading into 2026.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the results reflect the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which positions tourism as a core driver of economic diversification and sustainable growth.
Western Europe remained Dubai’s largest source market with 4.1 million visitors, followed by CIS and Eastern Europe and South Asia, each contributing 2.89 million arrivals. GCC and MENA markets together accounted for 26 percent of total visitors, highlighting the strength of proximity markets alongside long-haul demand.
Dubai’s hospitality sector also recorded robust performance. Hotel inventory reached 154,264 rooms across 827 establishments, while average occupancy rose to 80.7 percent. Average daily rates increased to AED579, and revenue per available room climbed 11 percent to AED467.
DET attributed the growth to diversified global marketing campaigns, strategic partnerships with major international brands, and continuous investment in infrastructure and digital innovation. New hotel openings, streamlined guest experiences, and incentive programmes for investors further strengthened the ecosystem.
With Dubai International Airport retaining its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passengers and a packed calendar of retail, cultural, and sporting events, officials said the emirate is well positioned to sustain growth as it advances toward its long-term D33 ambitions.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
