UAE Tourism to Create 1 Million Jobs by 2025 as Visitor Spending Hits Record Highs
The United Arab Emirates is poised to become a top global hub for tourism employment, with nearly one million people expected to be working in the sector by the end of 2025. This forecast comes from the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) report by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which reveals strong growth in the country’s travel and tourism industry.
According to the report, the sector is set to support more than 925,000 jobs in 2025, up by over 26,000 from the previous year. This surge reflects the UAE’s robust post-pandemic recovery and ongoing strategic investments in the tourism landscape.
Record-Breaking Visitor Spending and Economic Growth
International visitor spending in the UAE is projected to reach AED 228.5 billion in 2025—a 37% increase over the 2019 peak. Overall, the travel and tourism sector is expected to contribute AED 267.5 billion to the national GDP, nearly 13% of the total economy. Domestic tourism is also thriving, with local travel spending forecasted to hit AED 60 billion, up 47% since 2019.
WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson commended the UAE for its remarkable progress, citing its world-class infrastructure, exceptional hospitality, and efficient visa systems. She noted that initiatives like the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter are playing a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable, innovation-driven tourism industry.
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Highlights from 2024 and a Promising Outlook
In 2024, the UAE’s tourism sector added AED 257.3 billion to the economy and supported around 899,000 jobs, representing one in every eight jobs nationwide. Dubai alone welcomed 18.72 million international visitors, a 9% rise from 2023. Tourist spending remained high, with international travelers contributing AED 217.3 billion and domestic tourists spending AED 57.6 billion.
Looking ahead to 2035, the WTTC expects tourism’s economic contribution to grow to AED 287.8 billion—around 10.4% of GDP—with over one million people employed in the sector.
Abu Dhabi’s Rise as a Global Leisure Powerhouse
Abu Dhabi is quickly establishing itself as a top-tier global tourist destination. Cultural and entertainment mega-projects are transforming the capital’s appeal:
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Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is set to open on Saadiyat Island.
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Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi will introduce a Harry Potter-themed attraction.
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Yas Waterworld is adding 12 new features, including the UAE’s tallest waterslide.
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Ferrari World plans to launch a new record-breaking roller coaster.
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A Disney-themed resort, developed in partnership with The Walt Disney Company and Miral, is also in development.
In addition to these high-profile attractions, Abu Dhabi is investing in innovative cultural experiences such as teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a digital art project already drawing significant attention.
These strategic developments reinforce the UAE’s position as a trailblazer in global tourism, combining cutting-edge entertainment, cultural richness, and sustainable planning to redefine the future of travel.
