Highlighting Global Tourist Attractions and Sustainable Growth
The UAE recently participated in the G20 Tourism Ministers’ Meeting 2024, held in Brazil, to discuss global tourism strategies and sustainable growth.
Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, UAE’s Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council represented the country at this significant global event. The meeting brought together leaders from G20 countries to promote international collaboration and address challenges within the tourism sector.
The UAE, A Leading Tourist Destination in 2024
During his address, Al Marri underscored the UAE’s growing prominence as a global tourist destination. He emphasized how the nation has leveraged its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, and strong aviation sector to become a top choice for travelers.
“Under the directives of its wise leadership, the UAE has become a major destination for tourists from around the world, owing to its strategic location connecting the East and West,” said Al Marri.
The UAE’s tourism sector has shown remarkable growth, with a 26% increase in 2023 compared to the previous year. This growth highlights the UAE’s commitment to advancing its travel and tourism industry, positioning the nation as a premier global tourist attraction. In the first half of 2024, UAE airports welcomed around 72 million passengers, demonstrating a 14% increase from the previous year. The country’s 1,240 hotels recorded an impressive 53 million guest nights, boasting an occupancy rate of 80%, among the highest in the world.
UAE’s Vision for Tourism in 2024 and Beyond
The UAE’s success in the tourism industry is a key driver of its economy, contributing approximately AED220 billion to the national GDP, or 11.7%. This growth is part of the broader “We the UAE 2031” vision, which aims to further enhance the tourism sector by supporting digital transformation and boosting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) involved in tourism.
The UAE’s participation in the G20 meeting aligns with its long-term goals of sustainable tourism development and economic diversification. Al Marri highlighted how tourism contributes to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, emphasizing the importance of innovation and digital integration.
Global Tourist Attractions in the UAE
The UAE continues to be a sought-after destination for travelers seeking a mix of modern luxury and cultural richness. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the serene deserts of Abu Dhabi, the country offers a wide range of attractions that appeal to global tourists. As part of its strategy for 2024, the UAE plans to further enhance these attractions while promoting new developments like eco-friendly resorts and smart tourism initiatives.
This focus on sustainability aligns with the UAE’s commitment to environmental conservation, another key topic discussed at the G20 meeting. The UAE travel and tourism industry has placed significant emphasis on building a resilient infrastructure that supports green tourism and minimizes environmental impact.
Future Prospects for UAE Tourism
Looking ahead, the UAE’s future in the global tourism landscape remains promising. The country’s leadership continues to invest in cutting-edge technologies to improve traveler experiences and foster greater connectivity.
With its growing appeal as a UAE tourist destination, the country is poised to continue its upward trajectory in 2024 and beyond, attracting millions of visitors from across the globe.
