Strategic partnerships, global marketing campaigns and major events contributed to Dubai welcoming 19.59 million international overnight visitors in 2025, marking a 5% increase compared to 18.72 million arrivals in 2024, according to data published by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and a third successive year of record-setting figures.
The UAE’s hospitality sector ended 2025 on a high note delivering outstanding results, buoyed by strong tourism inflows across all major markets, said an industry expert. Dubai welcomed 17.5 million international visitors in the first 11 months, while Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah also recorded year‑on‑year growth in visitation.
Saudi Tourism Minister Ahmed Al-Khateeb said the sector aims to double its contribution to the kingdom's GDP from SAR300 billion ($80 billion) to SAR600 billion ($160 billion), while continuing to create jobs as the private sector recruits national talent.
The Gulf Aviation Academy closed 2025 with strong growth, training over 4,000 aviation professionals worldwide, a 15% year-on-year increase. During the year, GAA delivered more than 300 specialised courses across operational, technical and regulatory aviation disciplines.
50 Best announces that The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 awards, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, will be hosted in Abu Dhabi in November 2026. An extensive event programme – backed by 50 Best’s host partner, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi – will build up to the much-anticipated awards ceremony in November when The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 ranking will be revealed.
Experience Abu Dhabi will host its first Ramadan Festival throughout the Holy Month, featuring purpose-built neighbourhoods that celebrate Emirati heritage, foster community connections, and offer family-friendly activities for visitors to explore and enjoy.
The UAE Ministry of Economy and Tourism honoured 11 federal entities and national companies at the second National Forum for SMEs – Government Procurement for supporting Emirati SMEs and facilitating their access to government contracts and tenders in 2025.
Dar Global, the London-listed luxury real estate developer, has unveiled its ambitious project - Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts - at its AIDA project in Oman. Perched 130m above sea-level, it will offer 120 keys featuring furnished, themed luxury suites and family-first rooms with other key amenities.
Kerten Hospitality kicks off 2026 by signing 1,000 new keys, following a record 2025 with a 55% revenue increase, 69% GOP growth, and 44% higher management fees. The group accelerates expansion across the Middle East, Africa, and other high-growth markets, highlighting strong investor demand.
ELE|NA Elements of Nature, the wellness philosophy of THE OZEN COLLECTION, marks a shift in holistic hospitality by moving wellness beyond curated rituals towards a personalised data-informed approach to well-being. Now available at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, the integration of DNA analysis and bioenergetic assessment responds to the growing focus on longevity, preventative health and precision wellness.
