UAE hotel revenues hit $12.1bn as visitor numbers surge

The UAE tourism sector generated hotel revenues of approximately AED44.4bn ($12.1bn) between January and November 2025, underlining its role as a key driver of sustainable economic growth and international competitiveness.

The performance was highlighted at the International Tourism Fair – FITUR Madrid 2026, where senior UAE officials showcased the country’s tourism achievements, global partnerships and long-term growth strategy.

Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, participated in FITUR Madrid 2026, held from 21 to 25 January at IFEMA in Spain.

The exhibition aims to strengthen international tourism partnerships with key regional and global markets, reinforce the presence of the UAE’s tourism identity and products internationally, exchange expertise on sustainable tourism policies and enhance tourist destinations.

UAE–Spain relations

Al Marri said the UAE and the Kingdom of Spain enjoy strong and strategic economic relations, reflecting a shared vision to expand cooperation and broaden joint partnerships across economic, investment and tourism sectors.

He noted that tourism represents a key pillar in strengthening bilateral relations by creating new opportunities for joint investment, enhancing cultural exchange and tourism expertise, and driving economic cooperation towards broader horizons, while supporting sustainable growth in both countries.

Al Marri said the UAE tourism sector represents a fundamental pillar and key driver of sustainable development, contributing effectively to the national economy’s gross domestic product.

Guided by the vision of the country’s leadership, he added, the UAE has consolidated its position as a leading global tourism destination, attracting millions of visitors annually and offering diverse tourism experiences supported by advanced infrastructure, growth-supportive policies and innovative initiatives that have enhanced competitiveness regionally and globally.

UAE tourism milestones

Reviewing key achievements in 2025, Al Marri highlighted several regional and international milestones, including the election of Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais as Secretary-General of UN Tourism for the 2026–2029 term.

He also pointed to the selection of Masfout as Best Tourism Village in the World for 2025, as well as the designation of Al Ain as Capital of Arab Tourism for 2026, following its selection as Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025.

According to Al Marri, these achievements reflect the UAE’s distinguished standing in the tourism sector and its continued efforts to enhance competitiveness and develop sustainable tourism destinations at both regional and global levels.

Presenting tourism performance indicators for January to November 2025, Al Marri said hotel revenues reached approximately AED44.4bn ($12.1bn), representing growth of 8.8 per cent compared to the same period in 2024, driven by an increase in the average daily rate.

The number of hotel guests rose to around 29.1m, recording growth of 5.2 per cent, while hotel guest nights exceeded 99.4m, up 6 per cent compared to the same period in 2024.

Sustainable tourism

Al Marri said the exhibition serves as a leading global platform for exchanging best practices related to tourism sustainability and for developing innovative projects and solutions that enhance the sector’s ability to address challenges and achieve long-term economic and social development.

During his visit to the Abu Dhabi and Dubai pavilions, he underlined the strength and competitiveness of UAE tourism products and services and their role in delivering outstanding visitor experiences that meet the expectations of tourists from around the world.

He also stressed the importance of strengthening the presence of national tourism companies at international exhibitions and events.