DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — Dubai welcomed a record 19.59 million international overnight visitors in 2025, up 5% from 18.72 million in 2024, marking the third consecutive year of record-breaking tourism, according to data released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
The city also crossed a milestone in December, receiving more than 2 million international visitors in a single month for the first time, underscoring strong momentum heading into 2026.
Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the results reflect the long-term vision of Dubai’s leadership and the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the emirate’s economy by 2033.
“Dubai’s strong tourism growth momentum has been driven by a commitment to building a city that connects the world, creates opportunity and offers distinctive experiences for global travelers,” he said, citing continued investment in infrastructure, partnerships and service excellence.
Western Europe remained Dubai’s largest source market in 2025, accounting for 4.1 million visitors, or 21% of arrivals, followed by South Asia and CIS and Eastern Europe, each with 2.89 million visitors. The GCC and wider Middle East and North Africa region together accounted for 26% of total arrivals.
Helal Saeed Almarri, director general of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said tourism continues to be a key driver of economic diversification, supporting growth, investment inflows and global talent attraction.
Dubai’s hospitality sector also posted strong results. Hotel occupancy averaged 80.7% in 2025, up from 78.2% a year earlier, while occupied room nights rose 4% to 44.85 million. Average daily room rates increased 8% to 579 dirhams, and revenue per available room climbed 11% to 467 dirhams, according to official data.
By the end of the year, Dubai’s hotel inventory reached more than 154,000 rooms across 827 establishments, placing it among the world’s leading hospitality markets.
Tourism growth was supported by major global marketing campaigns, new hotel openings and strategic partnerships with international brands, as well as continued recognition for safety, accessibility and sustainability, officials said.
Dubai International Airport retained its position as the world’s busiest airport for international passengers in 2025, while major retail, cultural and sporting events helped attract visitors year-round.
Officials said infrastructure projects planned for 2026 and beyond, including the expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport and the Dubai Metro Blue Line, will further strengthen Dubai’s position as a leading global tourism and business hub.
