In 2023, Dubai hosted 17.15 million international tourists, reinforcing its position as one of the top three cities globally in the business and entertainment sectors. This figure represents a 19.4% increase over 2022 and surpasses the previous record of 16.73 million visitors set in 2019.
According to the latest data from Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), Dubai experienced a record-breaking year in 2023, attracting 17.15 million international overnight visitors. The numbers for 2023 signify substantial growth from the 14.36 million tourist arrivals in 2022, exceeding the visitor record of 16.73 million set in 2019. This growth aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, initiated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. D33 aims to position Dubai among the top three global cities for business and entertainment, as well as making it the best city to visit, live, and work in.
Dubai’s success in attracting tourists was further solidified by its ranking as the number one global destination for the third consecutive year at the Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards 2024, becoming the first city to receive this prestigious accolade. This achievement reflects the city’s vibrant and diverse offerings, world-class infrastructure, exceptional service, and ongoing collaboration between the government and the private sector. Dubai offers travel options suitable for every budget and preference, and its calendar of business, entertainment, and sports events continues to draw international visitors throughout the year.
“Growth in Tourism and its Contribution to Economic Expansion
Dubai’s tourism sector’s performance is closely linked to a 3.3% GDP growth in the first nine months of 2023, highlighting the mutually beneficial relationship between tourism and economic prosperity. Activities in accommodation and food services recorded an impressive 11.1% growth, solidifying Dubai’s position as a global leader in tourism.
Dubai’s international visitor performance has surpassed global tourism trends according to the latest data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). By the end of 2023, global international tourism reached 88% of pre-pandemic levels. However, the Middle East region exceeded pre-pandemic visitor numbers by 22% compared to 2019, holding a leading position in the global recovery.
Key Regions Maintain Momentum
Dubai’s strong tourism performance in 2023 reaffirmed its status as a top travel destination for both traditional and new markets. European tourists led the list, making up 19% of the total tourist numbers. South Asian tourists followed at 18%, with the Gulf Cooperation Council at 16%. Tourists from Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States along with Eastern Europe were fourth at 13%. Tourists visiting Dubai in 2023 included 12% from the Middle East and North Africa region, 9% from North and Southeast Asia, and 7% from the Americas. Lastly, Africa was at the bottom in terms of tourist numbers, comprising 4% (649,000) of Dubai’s visitors.
Dubai Among Global Leaders in Hotel Occupancy Rates in 2023
In 2023, Dubai achieved an average hotel occupancy rate of 77.4%, ranking among the cities with the highest rates worldwide. This rate surpassed the 72.9% achieved in 2022 and the 75.3% in 2019, marking the highest occupancy rate in Dubai’s history. This high rate was achieved despite a 19% increase in room numbers compared to 2019. By December 2023, Dubai reached a significant milestone with 150,000 room keys. As of the end of December 2023, Dubai’s hotel inventory included 150,291 rooms across 821 facilities, compared to 146,496 rooms across 804 facilities at the end of December 2022 and 126,120 rooms across 741 facilities at the end of December 2019. The increase in room numbers while surpassing previous years’ occupancy rates demonstrates Dubai’s extraordinary success in the hotel sector.”
