Dubai’s tourism sector has recorded impressive growth, welcoming 16.79 million international visitors between January and November 2024. This marks a 9% increase compared to the same period in 2023, which saw 15.37 million tourists. The latest figures, released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, underscore the emirate’s enduring appeal as a global travel destination.
In November alone, Dubai received 1.83 million tourists, while other months also recorded robust numbers: January welcomed 1.77 million, February 1.9 million, and March 1.51 million. April and May attracted 1.5 million and 1.44 million visitors, respectively, while the summer months of June, July, and August saw 1.19 million, 1.31 million, and 1.31 million arrivals. September recorded 1.36 million visitors, and October followed with 1.67 million, reflecting sustained interest throughout the year.
Western Europe emerged as the leading source region, contributing 3.298 million tourists, or 20% of total visitors. South Asia followed closely with 2.858 million tourists (17%), and GCC countries accounted for 15%, with over 2.5 million visitors. The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and Eastern Europe contributed 2.353 million tourists, accounting for 14% of the total, while the Middle East and North Africa provided 1.933 million visitors, representing 12%. North East and South East Asia added 1.622 million tourists (10%), while the Americas contributed 1.117 million visitors (7%). Africa and Australia accounted for 791,000 and 319,000 tourists, representing 5% and 2% of the total, respectively.
Dubai’s hospitality sector also witnessed growth, with 153,390 hotel rooms in 828 establishments by the end of November, compared to 149,685 rooms in 820 establishments at the same time in 2023. Hotel room bookings exceeded 39.19 million during the first 11 months of the year, a 3% increase from 38.01 million in the previous year. The average length of stay stood at 3.6 nights.
Five-star hotels led the market with 53,977 rooms across 168 establishments, accounting for 35% of total rooms. Four-star properties followed with 43,345 rooms in 194 establishments, while one- to three-star hotels provided 29,701 rooms in 278 establishments. Luxury hotel apartments offered 13,944 rooms across 80 properties, and mid-level hotel apartments contributed 12,423 rooms in 108 establishments.
Dubai also saw a rise in hotel rates, with the average daily rate (ADR) reaching AED520, a 2% increase from AED510 in 2023. The average revenue per available room (RevPAR) climbed 3% to AED 405, up from AED394 in the previous year.
These figures reflect Dubai’s successful efforts in maintaining its status as a premier global destination, supported by its diverse offerings and strong hospitality infrastructure.
