Dubai Tourism Hits 19.59M Visitors in Record 2025 Year

Dubai’s tourism industry achieved a third consecutive record-breaking year in 2025, welcoming 19.59 million international overnight visitors, a 5% increase from 18.72 million in 2024, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). In December alone, over 2 million visitors arrived, the first time the city exceeded two million in a single month.

Leadership and Vision

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, said the city’s success reflects the strategic vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33. Dubai’s tourism growth is fueled by world-class infrastructure, strong partnerships, and innovative visitor experiences, promoting the city as a top global destination.

Visitor Growth by Region

Dubai’s diversified tourism strategy attracted visitors from key regions:

• Western Europe: 4.1M (21%)

• CIS & Eastern Europe: 2.89M (15%)

• South Asia: 2.89M (15%)

• GCC: 2.99M (15%)

• MENA: 2.17M (11%)

• Northeast & Southeast Asia: 1.85M (9%)

• Americas: 1.40M (7%)

• Africa: 897K (5%)

• Australasia: 401K (2%)

DET Director General Helal Saeed Almarri highlighted that tourism continues to drive economic growth, investments, and talent attraction, supporting Dubai’s ambition to double its economy by 2033.

Hotel Sector Performance

Dubai’s hotel sector thrived in 2025, with 154,264 rooms across 827 properties, rivaling global cities. Occupancy reached 80.7%, with 44.85 million room nights sold. Average daily rates rose to AED 579, and revenue per room increased 11% to AED 467. Notable hotel openings included Ciel Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab, and Mandarin Oriental Downtown.

Campaigns and Partnerships

Global campaigns like ‘Find Your Story’ with Millie Bobby Brown and Jake Bongiovi, and ‘Dubai, Ready for a Surprise?’ with Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, attracted international visitors. Partnerships with Marriott, Visa, Hyatt, and Amadeus enhanced Dubai’s appeal. The Beautiful Destinations Academy was launched to develop the creator community.

Global Recognition

Dubai received multiple international accolades in 2025:

• First Certified Autism Destination™ in the Eastern Hemisphere

• Ranked among the world’s top 10 safest cities

• Named best city for solo female travelers

• Featured 3 hotels in The World’s 50 Best Hotels

• Cultural food tours in Old Dubai listed in Lonely Planet’s top experiences

Events and Festivals

Major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Summer Surprises, and Dubai Fitness Challenge attracted millions of visitors. The inaugural World Sports Summit drew 1,500 sports leaders. Dubai Business Events hosted 504 major events, a 15% increase from 2024.

Education and Sustainability

Dubai College of Tourism expanded programs for Emiratis and students of determination. Sustainable initiatives like the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp recognized 153 hotels, and the Refill for Life initiative eliminated 42.7 million single-use plastic bottles.

Culinary Highlights

Dubai’s gastronomy scene continued to shine with new openings and Michelin-star recognitions. FZN by Björn Frantzén became the world’s first chef with three Michelin stars for three different restaurants. Trèsind Studio became Dubai’s first Indian Michelin three-starred restaurant.

Outlook for 2026

Dubai will continue expanding infrastructure, including Al Maktoum International Airport and Dubai Metro Blue Line, while celebrating the Year of the Family. Investments in technology, culture, and sustainable planning aim to keep Dubai at the forefront of global tourism.