The United Arab Emirates is on track to become a leading global hub for tourism employment, with nearly one million individuals expected to be working in the industry by the close of 2025. This is according to the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) released by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).
The report estimates that the UAE’s travel and tourism sector will support more than 925,000 jobs this year—an increase of over 26,000 positions from 2024. This growth highlights the country’s strong post-pandemic recovery and its strategic investments aimed at expanding the tourism sector.
According to WTTC projections, international visitor spending is set to reach a record AED 228.5 billion in 2025—a 37% increase compared to the previous high in 2019. The overall contribution of travel and tourism to the UAE’s economy is expected to hit AED 267.5 billion in 2025, making up nearly 13% of the nation’s GDP. Domestic travel is also surging, with spending by local tourists projected to rise to AED 60 billion, marking a 47% increase since 2019.
Julia Simpson, WTTC President and CEO, praised the UAE’s achievements: “The UAE remains a global leader in tourism, with smart infrastructure, excellent hospitality, and streamlined visa policies. It’s a testament to how strategic planning can drive economic success.”
She also highlighted the importance of national strategies such as the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter, which are guiding the sector toward a sustainable and innovation-led future.
In 2024, the UAE’s tourism sector contributed AED 257.3 billion to the economy and supported nearly 899,000 jobs, roughly one in every eight jobs in the country. Dubai recorded an impressive 18.72 million international visitors, a 9% increase from the previous year.
Spending by tourists also remained strong, with international travelers contributing AED 217.3 billion and domestic tourists spending AED 57.6 billion.
Looking ahead, the WTTC anticipates that by 2035, the UAE’s tourism sector will contribute almost AED 287.8 billion to the economy, representing 10.4% of GDP, and will employ over one million people.
Abu Dhabi is rapidly gaining recognition as a premier global tourism destination, with major cultural and entertainment developments underway.
Notable projects include the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island, expanding the capital’s cultural appeal. Yas Island is also boosting its entertainment portfolio:
In addition to theme parks, Abu Dhabi is investing in unique cultural experiences like the immersive digital art project, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, which has already begun drawing large visitor numbers.
With these ambitious initiatives, the UAE—especially Abu Dhabi—is not only maintaining its tourism momentum but also redefining the global standard for innovative and sustainable travel destinations.