Tourism Growth and Visitor Statistics
Dubai has demonstrated exceptional tourism performance throughout 2025, with 9.88 million overnight international visitors recorded in the first half of the year, marking a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. By September 2025, the city had welcomed 13.95 million visitors, showing a 5% increase compared to the same nine-month period in 2024. These figures underscore Dubai's resilience and sustained appeal as a premier global destination.
Dubai International Airport, the world's busiest for international passenger traffic, processed 46 million passengers in the first six months of 2025, a 2.3% increase over 2024. The airport's top routes include connections to Mumbai, London, and Riyadh, with Mumbai consistently ranking among the leading source markets. This connectivity has made Dubai increasingly accessible to travelers from key regions worldwide.
India as a Key Tourism Market
India has emerged as a significant contributor to Dubai's tourism growth, with Indian visitors accounting for substantial numbers of international arrivals. Mumbai ranks among Dubai's top source markets, with 1.2 million passengers traveling through Dubai International Airport alone. Indian travelers represent a diverse demographic, including families seeking luxury experiences, business professionals, and solo explorers.
The appeal of Dubai to Indian tourists is reinforced by strategic marketing campaigns such as 'Find Your Story' and 'Dubai, Ready for a Surprise?' which have featured prominent Bollywood and cricket celebrities. These campaigns have effectively resonated with Indian audiences, highlighting Dubai's offerings in luxury, adventure, and convenience. Emirates Airline has further supported this market by offering Indian tourists benefits including complimentary hotel stays and discounted attraction passes.
Major Attractions and Hospitality Infrastructure
Dubai's diverse attractions continue to draw millions of visitors annually. The Museum of the Future has attracted 4 million visitors since its opening in 2022, while the city's expansive parks hosted 16.7 million visitors in 2025. These venues offer visitors a blend of innovation, culture, and leisure experiences that appeal to various traveler preferences.
The hospitality sector has shown robust performance, with hotel occupancy reaching approximately 80.6% in the first half of 2025. The average daily rate stood at about AED 584 per night, with guests staying for nearly 4 nights on average. The city continues to expand its hotel infrastructure to accommodate rising visitor demand, ensuring world-class accommodations across various price points and luxury levels.
Future Growth and Infrastructure Development
Dubai's tourism sector is poised for continued expansion, with flagship events including the Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Fitness Challenge expected to attract additional international visitors in the coming months. The city has secured 249 international conference bids, positioning itself as a premier destination for business tourism and corporate events.
The ongoing $35 billion expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport represents a significant investment in Dubai's future tourism capacity. This development underscores the city's commitment to accommodating rising demand from key markets and maintaining its competitive position as a world-leading tourism destination. These infrastructure enhancements align with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to establish Dubai among the world's top three tourist destinations.