The UAE welcomed more than 32 million hotel guests in 2025, generating AED 49.2 billion in hotel revenues – a 9.7% year-on-year increase – according to the Emirates Tourism Council's annual sector report, reviewed by Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Hotel occupancy averaged 79.5% across the year, placing the UAE among the highest-performing markets globally, while the sector logged approximately 100 million hotel nights. The national hospitality portfolio now spans more than 1,240 establishments and 217,000 rooms.
The UAE also ranked 18th worldwide and first across MENA in the 2024 Travel and Tourism Development Index. Tourism remains a cornerstone of the country's economic diversification agenda, backed by sustained investment in aviation, entertainment, culture, and integrated hospitality experiences across all seven emirates.
Gulf Economist Staff Writer