Dubai has reached a new tourism milestone, welcoming 18.72 million international visitors in 2024, marking a 9% increase from the previous year. This new figure surpasses the city’s record of 17.15 million visitors in 2023, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, attributed the city’s record-breaking tourism performance to strategic initiatives focused on innovation, infrastructure, and global outreach. He emphasized the role of visionary leadership and collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving this success.
“Dubai’s exceptional tourism performance is a result of visionary leadership and strong public-private sector collaboration. We remain dedicated to elevating the city’s global standing as a top destination for business and leisure,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
The surge in visitor numbers can be credited to several key factors, including the city’s expanded international partnerships, the hosting of high-profile global events, and the continuous growth of its hospitality sector. Dubai’s hotel inventory now boasts 154,016 rooms across 832 establishments, catering to the increasing demand.
Looking ahead, the city’s tourism outlook remains positive, with major infrastructure projects in the pipeline. Notable developments include the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and the extension of the Dubai Metro’s Blue Line, both of which will enhance the city’s connectivity and further solidify Dubai’s position as a premier global tourism hub.