UAE Surges Ahead in Global Tourism, Tops $51.9 Billion in Visitor Spend

The United Arab Emirates has firmly established itself as a global tourism powerhouse, ranking among the top seven destinations worldwide for international tourist spending in 2023. According to the latest UN Tourism Barometer, the UAE recorded an impressive $51.9 billion in international tourism receipts last year, rising from 13th position in 2019 to 6th globally.

This leap places the UAE ahead of established tourism giants such as the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany and Australia. The remarkable growth in spending underscores the success of the country’s strategic focus on tourism as a key pillar of its national economy.

The UAE’s ascent is driven by a combination of factors: world-class infrastructure, a diverse range of premium offerings and consistent investment in visitor experiences. From luxury retail and high-end gastronomy to iconic cultural landmarks and curated events, the UAE has positioned itself as a destination that goes beyond the conventional. Dubai, with its record tourist arrivals and evolving entertainment landscape, continues to be the anchor of this success. At the same time, Abu Dhabi is rapidly gaining ground as a luxury and cultural capital, drawing discerning travelers from around the globe.

Government initiatives such as the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the ambitious D33 economic agenda have placed tourism at the forefront of the country’s growth vision. These programs aim to further increase tourist inflow, elevate the UAE’s global standing, and ensure long-term sustainability of the sector.

The UAE also retained its leadership position in the Middle East and ranked 18th globally on the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index, reinforcing its reputation for safety, innovation, and excellence in hospitality.