The UAE’s travel and tourism sector is poised for further growth, with an estimated 26,400 new jobs expected in 2025, bringing the total workforce in the industry to 925,000, according to the latest data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). This growth represents a 2.9% increase from 2024, with international visitor spending projected to reach a record AED 228.5 billion ($62.2 billion).
WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson highlighted the UAE’s remarkable performance in travel and tourism, stating in a The National report, “2024 was a record year for the UAE in terms of travel and tourism, it really knocked it out of the park, surpassing all levels, beating 2019.” She emphasized that the country’s growth trajectory is far from over, with 2025 expected to set even higher benchmarks.
The WTTC report, produced in collaboration with Oxford Economics, also revealed that domestic tourism spending is forecast to reach AED 60 billion this year, marking a 4.3% increase from 2024 and an impressive 47% rise from 2019.
Simpson attributed the UAE’s success to factors such as advanced digital infrastructure, robust air connectivity, and a welcoming approach to international travelers. “That energy has never stalled, Dubai keeps reinventing itself and this is what’s so amazing about it,” she said, adding that the country’s appeal is further strengthened by its diverse source markets, including India, Russia, and the United Kingdom.
The sector’s contribution to the UAE’s gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to hit AED 267.5 billion in 2025, representing 12.9% of the national economy. The UAE’s focus on smart cities, seamless travel through biometric technology, and new attractions like Disneyland Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi are expected to continue driving growth.