UAE Tourism Shines in 2024 — WTTC Calls It a Standout Year

 

The year 2024 has firmly established the United Arab Emirates as a global tourism powerhouse. In its latest findings, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) hails the UAE’s tourism success story, calling it a “standout year” that reflects years of strategic planning, global positioning, and visionary leadership.

At the heart of this progress lies Dubai, a beacon of innovation and ambition. Tourism contributed AED 257.3 billion ($70.1B) to the nation’s GDP—13% of the economy—surpassing not only expectations but also the pre-pandemic highs by 26%. This isn't just economic data; it's a statement. A declaration that the UAE has unlocked a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive tourism model that blends growth with responsibility.

What’s particularly noteworthy is how this success fits into the larger narrative of Vision 2031. The UAE is not chasing short-term wins—it’s building a legacy. With a target of AED 450 billion GDP contribution and 40 million hotel guests annually, tourism is being woven into the very fabric of national progress.

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Credible Milestones That Deserve Applause:

1. Global Leadership and International Trust
Shaikha Al Nowais’s election as the next Secretary-General of UN Tourism is more than a diplomatic win—it's a global endorsement of the UAE’s thought leadership in tourism. When paired with the UAE's rank among the Top 7 destinations for international tourist spending in 2024, it’s clear the world is not just watching, but also following the UAE’s model.

2. Economic Firepower
The growth trajectory from AED 204 billion in 2019 to AED 257.3 billion in 2024 reflects precision planning. Tourism now represents a vital pillar of economic resilience, providing over 5.4% of total government income and supporting future diversification efforts.

3. Climate-Conscious Tourism
A tourism sector with just 13.3% emissions contribution in 2023? That's a rare feat. With investments in eco-transport, sustainable resorts, and low-emission mobility, the UAE is setting an example for others in balancing hospitality and climate goals.

4. Inclusive Opportunity Creation
With women forming 16.3% and youth 9.7% of the workforce in tourism, the sector is also becoming a channel for national talent development. This inclusion isn't just about equality—it’s about future-readiness, innovation, and building a culturally rooted tourism identity.