Hotel revenues in the UAE rose 9.7% to approximately Dh49.21 billion in 2025, as the country’s tourism sector continued to expand across key performance indicators, the Ministry of Economy said. The data was reviewed during the second 2026 meeting of the Emirates Tourism Council, chaired by Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, in Ras Al Khaimah.
Total hotel guests reached 32.34 million in 2025, up 5.2% from 30.75 million recorded in 2024. Guest nights increased 5.9% year-on-year to 110.62 million, reflecting sustained demand for hospitality services.
Hotel occupancy rates stood at 79.3%, while total room capacity across the country rose to around 217,000 rooms by the end of the year.
Sector growth supported by policy measures
Officials attributed the strong performance to the UAE’s tourism strategy, which focuses on enhancing infrastructure, improving service quality, and ensuring resilience against global disruptions.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri said the UAE has strengthened its position as a global tourism hub through proactive policies and rapid response mechanisms, allowing the sector to maintain steady growth despite external challenges.
Focus on competitiveness and visitor experience
The council reviewed ongoing initiatives aimed at improving visitor safety, upgrading travel experiences, and strengthening coordination between tourism authorities.
Discussions also included future plans to sustain growth, particularly in light of regional developments that may impact travel demand.
Economic contribution remains strong
Officials said the continued rise in hotel revenues and visitor numbers highlights the sector’s role in supporting economic diversification and enhancing the UAE’s global competitiveness.
The tourism industry remains a key pillar of the national economy, contributing to employment, investment, and international visibility.
