UAE tourism posts robust 2025 gains with 32 million hotel guests and AED49.21bn in revenues
UAE tourism booms in 2025: over 32 million hotel guests, AED49.21bn in hotel revenues and 79.5% occupancy as the UAE leads MENA in travel development rankings.
The UAE tourism sector recorded a strong performance in 2025, with the Emirates Tourism Council reporting over 32 million hotel guests and AED49.21 billion in hotel revenues. The report, reviewed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, shows demand strengthening across markets and sustained growth in visitor nights and economic contribution. Key indicators point to rising visitor numbers, higher average stays and one of the region’s highest occupancy rates, underscoring the sector’s recovery and expansion.
Sheikh Mohammed reviews 2025 tourism report
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed the Emirates Tourism Council’s annual report on the sector’s 2025 performance. The review highlighted the government’s continuing focus on tourism as a strategic economic pillar. Officials noted that consolidated policy efforts and investment have supported steady growth in both leisure and business travel.
Visitor numbers and hotel demand
Total hotel guests exceeded 32 million in 2025, representing a 5.1% increase compared with 2024. This rise in arrivals was matched by an increase in nights spent in UAE properties, which reached 100 million hotel nights for the year. Analysts say the mix of events, expanded air connectivity and targeted marketing helped broaden source markets and lengthen average stays.
Revenue growth and economic impact
Hotel revenue climbed to AED49.21 billion, a 9.7% increase over the previous year, according to the council’s figures. The boost in revenues outpaced guest growth, indicating stronger spending per stay and improved yield management across properties. Tourism-linked sectors such as dining, retail and transport also reported spillover benefits from higher visitor spending.
Hotel capacity and occupancy rates
The UAE’s hotel supply stood at roughly 217,000 rooms spread across more than 1,240 properties at the end of 2025. Despite the increase in available inventory, average occupancy rose to 79.5%, one of the highest rates regionally and globally. Hoteliers cited diversified product offerings and high-value events as factors sustaining room demand even as new rooms came online.
Regional standing and global ranking
The Emirates secured the top position in the Middle East and North Africa on the Travel & Tourism Development Index for 2024 and ranked 18th globally, the report states. That international standing was presented as evidence of the country’s competitiveness in infrastructure, digital readiness and tourism policy. Officials said the ranking supports the UAE’s positioning as a year-round destination for a wide range of travelers.
Sector priorities and future planning
Looking ahead, policymakers identified infrastructure expansion, sustainability and niche product development as priorities for maintaining momentum. The council emphasized initiatives to enhance visitor experience, diversify source markets and encourage longer stays through cultural and outdoor offerings. Authorities also signalled ongoing collaboration with airlines and private sector partners to boost connectivity and promote off-peak travel.
The council’s report frames 2025 as a year of consolidation for the UAE tourism sector, with growth driven by both volume and value measures. Continued investment in hotels, events and destination marketing is expected to underpin further gains, while authorities monitor global trends and adapt strategies to sustain resilience and competitiveness.