Top 7 Globally Popular Tourist Locations Based on International Spending: United Arab Emirates Included.
Dubai: It's clear as day, the UAE is towering high as one of the world's top tourism powerhouses! According to the World Travel and Tourism Council, the Emirates have claimed a spot among the globe's top seven travel destinations, raking in a staggering Dh217 billion in international tourist spending last year alone [1]!
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, our nations esteemed Vice-President and Prime Minister, as well as the Ruler of Dubai, hailed this achievement as a momentous milestone in our economic journey [1]. He went on to reveal the splendid figure of an additional Dh57 billion spent by domestic tourists, solidifying tourism's integral role in the UAE's economic growth and diversification [1].
As if that wasn't enough, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized the UAE's rapid rise in an industry that's long held reign by older, established competitors. "Here we are, surpassing countries that have had the upper hand for centuries," he declared, embracing the UAE's open-armed approach to tourism and foreign investments [1].
The report from WTTC also pointed towards a dazzling 2025 for the UAE's tourism sector, projecting an impressive AED 267.5 billion contribution to the national economy [2]. This chunky figure is slated to make up almost 13% of the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) [2].
But wait, there's more! The UAE is set to become an employment engine in the global travel industry, with nearly a million people estimated to be working in the travel and tourism sector by the end of 2025 [2]. By 2025, the industry is also anticipated to support over 925,000 jobs, with an additional 26,000+ positions up for grabs in the current year, as per WTTC's annual Economic Impact Research (EIR) [2].
Domestic tourism is flourishing too, with local visitor spending projected to soar to an astounding AED 60 billion - a 47% increase compared to 2019 [2]. This jaw-dropping growth showcases the remarkable resilience of the UAE's internal travel market, side by side with international arrivals.
WTTC President and CEO Julia Simpson couldn't contain her admiration, acknowledging, "The UAE continues to lead the pack in global travel and tourism. From jaw-dropping smart cities to world-class hospitality and a breeze-through visa system, the country stands as a shining example of strategic vision driving economic success." [1]
So forget about a one-trick pony! The UAE's travel and tourism sector is set to make some serious economic and employment contributions by 2025. Taking the initiative with the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter, we're gearing up for a future-ready, sustainable tourism sector that'll leave the competition biting the dust [2].
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[1] Dubai: Sheikh Mohammed hails milestone as testament to economic strength, thriving tourism sector[2] The UAE is also set to become a major job engine in the global travel industry, with nearly one million people expected to be employed in its travel and tourism sector this year.[3] WTTC Economic Impact Research (EIR) 2023[4] WTTC Forecast Highlights 2022-2025[5] UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter[6] The UAE is also projected to have over 30 million international visitors in 2025 - a high total since the advent of the pandemic.
- In the realm of global news, the UAE's travel and tourism industry is poised to make substantial economic and employment contributions, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council's (WTTC) Economic Impact Research (EIR) 2023.
- Amidst the bustling business environment, the UAE stands as a prime example in the travel and tourism sector, boasting over 30 million international visitors projected for 2025, as per WTTC Forecast Highlights 2022-2025.
- Beyond tourism's economic impact, it also plays a pivotal role in the UAE's health sector, with an anticipated employment of nearly one million people in the travel and tourism sector by the end of 2025 [2].
- By implementing strategic plans like the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter, the UAE aims to foster a future-ready, sustainable tourism industry that adheres to the principles of environmental conservation and industry best practices [5].
- As the UAE continues to progress, its tourism industry is not only generating revenue but also shaping lifestyles, nurturing a thriving business environment, and contributing to the country's general-news and public health landscape.
