The UAE’s Minister of Economy, Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, has revealed at the World Economic Forum in Riyadh that the buoyant tourism sector is set to contribute Dh236 billion to the national economy in 2024, marking a significant increase from previous years.
This surge aligns with the country’s ambitious goal of elevating tourism’s GDP share to Dh450 billion by 2031, as outlined in the National Tourism Strategy 2031.
With a remarkable 26% growth in tourism’s contribution to the national GDP in 2023 compared to the previous year, the sector has not only rebounded but has also surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 14%. The Minister emphasized the importance of this growth, highlighting the sector’s resilience and its vital role in driving economic prosperity.
The UAE’s commitment to sustainable tourism is evident through initiatives such as the National Sustainable Aviation Fuel Roadmap, which aims to produce up to 700 million liters of sustainable aviation fuel annually by 2030. Furthermore, the sector continues to be a significant contributor to job creation, with 809,000 jobs provided in various tourism activities and fields in 2023, representing 12.3% of the total labor market.
Efforts are underway to enhance regional tourism cooperation, including the launch of a unified GCC tourist visa, which aims to promote the diverse tourism offerings across GCC countries. This initiative is expected to attract more tourists and further elevate the region as a leading destination for both regional and international travelers.
Sustainability remains a key focus for the UAE, with the Minister underscoring the importance of balancing economic growth with environmental conservation and social responsibility. Emphasizing the significance of ecotourism in preserving natural reserves and desert attractions, the UAE is committed to strengthening collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable tourism development.
Despite the achievements made thus far, challenges lie ahead, including the need to upskill the tourism workforce and foster innovation across various tourism activities. However, the UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting tourism diversity, attracting global investments, and solidifying its position as a leading destination on the global tourism landscape.
As the UAE continues to navigate the evolving tourism landscape, the sector’s resilience and adaptability position it as a driving force behind the country’s economic growth and competitiveness on the global stage.
