- UAE tourism contributed AED 220 billion to GDP in 2023, expected to rise to AED 236 billion in 2024.
- Jobs in tourism grew to 809,000 in 2023, with a projection of 833,000 in 2024.
- The UAE aims for AED 450 billion in GDP from tourism and AED 100 billion in investments by 2031.
- The strategy targets 40 million hotel guests by the next decade.
- Tourism growth stimulates economic activities, leading to job creation, increased demand for goods and services, and business opportunities.
- Investments in tourism enhance infrastructure and global competitiveness.
The tourism sector in the UAE is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating a robust contribution to the nation’s GDP.
In 2023, the sector made a substantial impact, contributing AED 220 billion to the GDP, accounting for 11.7 per cent of the overall economy.
This positive trajectory is expected to continue in 2024, with forecasts suggesting a rise to AED 236 billion, constituting 12 per cent of the GDP.
Job Opportunities on the Rise
Job opportunities within the tourism sector are also on the rise. In 2023, the sector generated 809,000 jobs across various tourism activities and fields in the UAE.
Projections for jobs in 2024 are even more promising, with an anticipated increase to 833,000 job opportunities.
Vision for Growth
Khaled Al Midfa is the Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.
He emphasized the importance of the tourism sector during the UN Tourism 50th Regional Commission Meeting for the Middle East in Muscat. The strategy aims to elevate the sector’s contribution to the country’s GDP by 2031.
Leading the UAE delegation, Al Midfa outlined the ambitious goals of the UAE Touri AED 450 billion, attracting AED 100 billion in new investments.
Additionally, the strategy aims to welcome 40 million guests to the country’s hotels by the next decade.
Strengthening the Economy
The growth of the tourism sector not only enhances the nation’s GDP but also stimulates economic activities across various sectors.
As more tourists visit the UAE, there is increased demand for goods and services, leading to further job creation and business opportunities.
Moreover, the influx of investments in the tourism industry contributes to infrastructure development and enhances the overall competitiveness of the UAE’s tourism offerings on a global scale.
In essence, the UAE’s tourism sector is poised to play an increasingly vital role in driving economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and positioning the nation as a premier global destination for travellers.
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