Dubai welcomes a record 9.31 million visitors in the first half of 2024

31.07.2024 - 03:06 / breakingtravelnews.com

Dubai welcomed 9.31 million international overnight visitors from January to June 2024, a 9% increase over the 8.55 million tourist arrivals in the first half of 2023, according to data published by Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Following a landmark 2023, when the city hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors, Dubai maintained its robust tourism momentum into the first six months of this year, putting the city on track for a record performance in 2024. Driven by DET’s efforts in collaboration with stakeholders and partners, the growth in international visitation aligns with the overarching objective to make Dubai the best city to visit, live, and work in.

Global accolades and industry events
Starting 2024 on a high note, Dubai was named the No.1 global destination for an unprecedented third successive year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards in January, making it the first city to achieve this unique accolade. The first half of the year also saw Dubai named the Middle East’s leading destination by the World Travel Awards, while Dubai International Airport and Mina Rashid were named the Middle East’s leading airport and leading cruise port for 2024 respectively. In addition Dubai World Trade Center was named Middle East’s Leading Exhibition and Convention Center.

Key source markets
With bespoke strategies and activities highlighting the city’s unique offering, dynamic appeal and connectivity, Dubai has maintained its position as a first-choice travel destination for visitors both from key traditional and emerging markets.

From January to June 2024, the proximity markets from GCC and MENA had a combined 26% share of overall visitors, 1.27 million (14%) and 1.09 million (12%) arrivals respectively, with Western Europe accounting for 20% of visitors to Dubai, 1.89 million in total. South Asia was another major source market, with 1.62 million visitors (17%).

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Dubai International Airport was named the Middle East’s Leading Airport by World Travel Awards 2024

Hotels and hospitality
World-class hotels and accommodation continue to be one of the core pillars of Dubai’s destination offering, and adding to the city’s appeal for global visitors, H1 saw a number of high-profile openings including: The Lana, Dorchester Collection’s first Middle East property; SIRO One Za’abeel, Dubai’s first fitness hotel; and Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences. The city’s accommodation portfolio will continue to grow with new openings planned throughout the rest of the year, as part of a strategic approach to expanding inventory to meet demand and ensure Dubai offers visitors a wide range of experiences and options across different categories and price points.

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