UAE reaches 84% of its target to have 40 million hotel guests by 2031

The UAE welcomed around 33.9 million visitors in 2025, achieving 84 per cent of its target of attracting 40 million hotel guests by 2031, according to Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism.

The UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 aims to increase the tourism sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product to Dh450 billion. It also seeks to attract Dh100 billion in additional tourism investments and welcome 40 million hotel guests annually.

Minister Highlights Need for Greater Collaboration

Speaking at the third edition of the Sharjah International Travel and Tourism Forum, Al Marri highlighted the importance of reviewing priorities and strengthening cooperation across the tourism sector.

He said the current period offers an opportunity to improve coordination between government entities, businesses, airlines, hotels, and tourism companies.
The latest visitor figures reflect the UAE’s progress towards its long-term tourism ambitions. Continued investment, stronger partnerships, and coordinated efforts across the industry are expected to support the country’s goal of becoming a leading global tourism destination by 2031.