A view of the Dubai skyline. ARCHIVE

Dubai continues to solidify its reputation as a global tourism hotspot, attracting 8.68 million international visitors during the first five months of 2025. According to the Tourism Performance Report for January to May 2025 released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the number reflected a 7 percent increase compared to the same period last year. In May alone, the city welcomed 1.53 million visitors. Top visitors to Dubai in 2025 Western Europe – 1.92 million visitors (22%) Russia, CIS, Eastern Europe – 1.396 million (16%) GCC countries– 1.275 million (15%) South Asia – 1.242 million (14%) Middle East & North Africa (MENA) – 989,000 (11%) Northeast & Southeast Asia – 771,000 (9%) The Americas – 601,000 (7%) Africa – 346,000 (4%) Australia – 141,000 (2%) The growth was also reflected in Dubai’s hotel sector, which expanded to 825 establishments offering 153,356 rooms as of May 2025. The average occupancy rate climbed to 83 percent, up from 81 percent last year. Tourists averaged a stay of 3.8 nights in hotels, spending a daily rate of Dh620. Dubai reported 19.09 million occupied hotel room nights in the last five months. The strong performance reinforces Dubai’s position as a preferred destination for leisure, business, and cultural experiences, with strategic marketing efforts paying dividends across global source markets. ICA/Expat Media
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