Dubai’s tourism sector has witnessed exciting transformations last year in the tourism sector. According to data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai witnessed a 9% growth in the number of international visitors to Dubai in 2024 marked at 18.72 million people, compared to 2023's record of 17.15 million new visitors. Now, the city is gearing up for even bigger achievements in 2025 and beyond, in keeping with the demands of Dubai's global appeal as a top travel destination.
While highlighting key administrative and strategic achievements last year, including in the hospitality sector, education sector and also food and luxury, DET unveiled some of its future development plans for Dubai’s tourism sector.
Dubai’s Tourism Plans
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Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) expansion: Work has begun on a Dhs 128 billion passenger terminal at DWC. Once completed, it will be the largest airport terminal in the world, capable of handling 260 million passengers annually. This mega-project aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to make Dubai a ‘20-Minute City’ by improving connectivity and accessibility.
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Dubai Metro Blue Line extension: The 30-kilometre Blue Line extension will connect 14 stations, serving approximately 1 million residents and enhancing travel across the city. This development will make it easier for tourists and residents to explore Dubai’s attractions more conveniently.
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Hospitality and investment growth: Dubai is actively collaborating with global investors and hospitality operators to introduce new brands and experiences across emerging districts like Palm Jebel Ali and Dubai South. The city already ranks number one globally for attracting greenfield FDI projects in tourism, according to the Financial Times’ ‘fDi Markets’ data.
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Tech-driven tourism: Dubai is leveraging cutting-edge technologies like AI and VR to create personalised and immersive experiences for visitors. The Visit Dubai app uses AI to offer tailored recommendations, while virtual tours allow tourists to explore attractions before their trip. Additionally, biometric hotel check-ins and automated immigration processes at Dubai International Airport are making travel smoother and more efficient.
With these plans in motion, Dubai is poised to attract even more visitors in the coming years, reinforcing its reputation as a city of the future.
For more updates on Dubai’s tourism developments, visit www.dubaitourism.ae.