The numbers are in…

There’s zero doubt that tourists love flocking to Dubai, and nothing can cement this further than the numbers that were announced by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

According to the tourism board, Dubai welcomed 18.72 million international overnight visitors from January to December 2024. It marks a nine per cent increase from the previous year, surpassing the 17.15 million visitors from 2023.

HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, stated that the record-breaking stats reflect the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai to ‘consolidate the city’s status as a global hub for business and leisure and one of the world’s best cities to visit, live and work in.’

What drove the numbers?

According to DET, the city’s impactful local and international partnerships, creative and targeted global campaigns, and major events helped achieve the numbers for 2024. And the tourism board will continue to work with the private and public sectors to develop and enhance the city’s offerings and experiences catering to all budgets and preferences.

The Viewing Point

His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said, “Our market strategy, built on bespoke and diversified campaigns, has been pivotal in showcasing Dubai’s diverse tourism offerings to the world, and we have leveraged strong partnerships with private and public sector organisations and individuals to enhance our global reach and promote Dubai as a leading hub for business, leisure, and innovation.”

Kazim added that the efforts made ‘Dubai the destination of choice for new and returning visitors, with an increasing number of them finding the city appealing to relocate to on a more permanent basis. A powerful sense of community among the almost 200 nationalities living in Dubai is also seeing more residents advocate for the city, inviting and hosting their friends and family to experience it for themselves.’

Gitex Global - Things to do in Dubai

A year-round events calendar helped contribute to the numbers. Dubai is home to a plethora of business, leisure, sporting events, trade shows, industry exhibitions, and more, all of which drew in businesses and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in the city.

Other contributing factors include the growth of the hotel sector with high-profile new openings including One&Only One Za’abeel, SIRO One Za’abeel, and The Lana Dorchester Collection. And we can’t forget the city’s culinary scene. From hidden gems and homegrown heroes to Michelin-starred restaurants, there’s plenty here (and more to come) to try that keeps visitors coming back.

What’s next?

DET has plenty more up their sleeves and is actively engaging with investors and operators in hospitality, exploring opportunities to bring new brands and offerings to the city. And with huge megaprojects already in the works, including the Palm Jebel Ali and the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport, there’s plenty of exciting opportunities to come.

Images: Getty Images and supplied