Momentum continues after a strong 2024 as Dubai champions innovation, sustainability, and global partnerships at Arabian Travel Market 2025
Dubai’s tourism sector continues to soar, welcoming a 3% year-on-year increase in international visitors during the first quarter of 2025, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). This latest uptick follows a remarkable 9% surge in tourist arrivals throughout 2024, further solidifying the emirate’s position as a global hub for travel, business, and innovation.
The data was revealed as Dubai took center stage at the 2025 edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM)—the region’s premier travel and tourism event. The DET used the platform not only to highlight its recent successes but also to outline future-forward strategies focused on sustainability, digital innovation, and cross-border collaborations aimed at elevating the visitor experience.
Strategic Vision for Growth Dubai’s continued tourism growth aligns with the city’s broader economic diversification goals, underpinned by visionary leadership and a commitment to creating world-class infrastructure and experiences. The city has emerged as a beacon of resilience and adaptability in the face of evolving global travel trends.
At ATM 2025, DET officials emphasized the importance of sustainable tourism practices, from eco-conscious hospitality developments to cultural preservation and community engagement. They also spotlighted emerging technologies such as AI-driven travel services and immersive digital platforms that enhance how tourists explore the emirate.
Global Partnerships at the Forefront Cross-border tourism partnerships were a recurring theme during the event. Dubai is actively working with key markets across Europe, Asia, and the Americas to promote multi-destination travel experiences that position the UAE as a gateway to the Middle East and beyond. These efforts are bolstered by world-class aviation connectivity, led by Emirates and flydubai, which continue to expand their reach and frequency across continents.
Looking Ahead With major global events on the horizon and a year-round calendar of cultural, business, and lifestyle experiences, Dubai is poised to maintain its upward tourism trajectory. The city’s adaptability, combined with an unwavering focus on visitor satisfaction, suggests that 2025 could mark yet another milestone year in the emirate’s travel narrative.
As DET Director General Helal Saeed Almarri stated during the ATM: “Dubai’s success in tourism is a result of consistent investment, public-private collaboration, and a deep understanding of traveler needs. We are not just building numbers—we are building meaningful experiences that reflect the spirit of Dubai.”
From sun-soaked beaches and heritage neighborhoods to futuristic skyscrapers and immersive art districts, Dubai continues to welcome the world—one memorable moment at a time.
