The latest data from the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has revealed that international visitor spending in the United Arab Emirates is set to reach a record AED 228.5 billion in 2025, 37% above the previous peak of 2019. More about UAE international tourism spend find out below.

The global tourism body’s annual Economic Impact Research (EIR) shows that travel & tourism in the UAE is set for another record year in 2025, with the sector forecast to contribute AED 267.5 BN to the national economy, accounting for almost 13% of GDP.

According to the research, by the end of the year, travel & tourism will also support more than 925,000 jobs.

Domestic visitor spending is also projected to reach a record high at AED 60 billion, 47% above 2019, highlighting the continued strength of the local travel market.

These milestones reflect the UAE’s leadership in driving innovation, sustainability, and seamless connectivity across its cities and attractions, powered by initiatives such as smart city development, world-class infrastructure, and a laser focus on visitor experience.

Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO, said:

“The UAE continues to lead the way in global Travel & Tourism. From cutting-edge smart cities to exceptional hospitality and seamless visa systems, the country is a model of how strategic vision drives economic growth.

“With initiatives like the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter, the UAE is building a future-ready sector rooted in sustainability and innovation. With strong leadership and public-private alignment, 2025 is set to mark yet another chapter in the UAE’s remarkable tourism success story.”

A look back at 2024

According to the data, in 2024 the sector contributed AED 257.3 billion to the UAE economy and supported 898,600 jobs, making up nearly one in eight jobs in the country.

Spending from international travelers reached AED 217.3 billion, while domestic visitor spending injected AED 57.6 billion into the national economy.

What Does the Next Decade Look Like?

Looking ahead to the next 10 years, WTTC forecasts the sector will contribute nearly AED 287.8 billion to the economy by 2035, representing 10.4% of the national GDP.

The workforce is expected to exceed 1 million jobs, underscoring the sector’s central role in economic diversification and national growth.

Across the Middle East

The Middle Eastern travel & tourism sector continues to grow at pace. In 2024, the region contributed $341.9 billion to GDP and supported 7.3 million jobs. UAE international tourism spend

WTTC is forecasting that travel and tourism across the region will continue to grow throughout 2025, with the GDP contribution set to reach $367.3 billion. Jobs are forecast to reach 7.7 million.

Jobs supported by the sector rose to 898,600, making up nearly one in eight jobs in the UAE.

Alertify conclusion: Why the UAE Stands Apart

What truly sets the UAE apart in the global tourism landscape isn’t just its soaring visitor numbers — it’s how those numbers are achieved. While many destinations compete on beauty or history alone, the UAE competes (and wins) on strategic foresight, flawless execution, and a commitment to seamless travel experiences. Its government doesn’t just promote tourism — it engineers it, combining world-class infrastructure, smart city innovation, and frictionless entry systems that make visiting easier, faster, and often more affordable than in rival destinations.

In a region where luxury often carries a steep price, the UAE proves that high quality doesn’t have to mean high cost. With competitive hotel rates, affordable transport, and wide-ranging visitor options — from ultra-luxury to budget-friendly — the country continues to democratize access to world-class experiences. Add in forward-thinking policies like visa reforms, open skies agreements, and digital convenience, and the result is a tourism model that’s not just thriving — it’s redefining the global standard.