Dubai Sees a 6% Rise in International Visitors, Welcoming Near to Ten Million in the First Half of this Year

Dubai continues to make significant strides in its tourism sector, welcoming over 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, marking a 6% increase from the same period last year. This growth highlights the city’s continued appeal as a global travel destination and solidifies its position in the global tourism rankings. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) released this data, underscoring the success of Dubai’s tourism strategy.

Sheikh Hamdan’s Vision for Dubai’s Tourism Growth

The Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, expressed pride in this achievement, attributing it to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized that this success aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the city among the top three global tourism destinations.

This vision is not just about increasing the number of visitors, but also about enhancing Dubai’s tourism offerings, strengthening its global presence, and fostering a dynamic, competitive tourism environment. Sheikh Hamdan celebrated the achievement, highlighting the strong public-private partnerships and an effective global marketing strategy that have driven this growth.

Record-Breaking Tourism Achievements

This year’s milestone follows Dubai’s record-breaking performance in 2024, when the city welcomed 18.72 million international overnight visitors, marking a 9% increase compared to the previous year. This achievement surpassed the 2023 record of 17.15 million visitors and underscores the city’s growing stature as a global travel hub.

Dubai’s strategic location, exceptional connectivity, and world-class infrastructure have played pivotal roles in attracting global tourists. The city’s access point between the East and West makes it an essential stop for international travelers, and its seamless transport options, including the Dubai International Airport (DXB), continue to serve as key enablers of this growth.

Dubai’s Unmatched Appeal

Dubai’s popularity can be attributed to its diverse offerings, from iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa, The Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Mall, to innovative cultural attractions such as the Museum of the Future and Expo 2020 Dubai. The city also boasts a wide array of luxury hotels, fine dining options, and shopping experiences, making it a prime destination for tourists seeking both modern amenities and a unique cultural experience.

Dubai’s Continued Success in 2025

The steady increase in international visitors demonstrates the effectiveness of Dubai’s efforts to create a welcoming and appealing environment for tourists. The tourism sector remains a key pillar of Dubai’s economy, contributing to its broader economic diversification strategy. The city’s continued rise in international rankings reinforces the goal of strengthening its position as a global tourism leader.

In addition to welcoming millions of tourists, Dubai also continues to see growth in key sectors, including retail, hospitality, and event tourism, thanks to its strategic location and robust infrastructure. The Dubai Duty Free, for example, reported record-breaking sales of Dh638.8 million in July 2025, showcasing the increasing spending power of visitors to the city.

Massive growth of Tourism in Dubai

Tourism in Dubai is booming, with 9.88 million overseas tourists in the first half of 2025. This record serves to underscore the increasing popularity of the city on a global front and its investment drive in tourism facilities and marketing. As Dubai continues to grow as a premier destination, it remains on track to meet its ambitious tourism goals outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, positioning the city among the top three global tourism destinations in the near future. With its strategic location, unparalleled attractions, and world-class services, Dubai’s tourism industry is well-poised for continued growth and success.

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