Tourism is a vital economic sector in the UAE and the country has given it considerable priority. The UAE has developed its infrastructure and service facilities to meet the needs of tourists and raised the standard of service in the hotel and transportation sectors. It also organizes events and festivals that have played a significant role in attracting tourists from all over the world.

The UAE is considered one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Arab world, especially Dubai, which is famous for its luxury tourism. As a result, the UAE has become heavily dependent on tourism as one of its most important non-oil economic sectors.

According to the World Tourism Organization, the UAE is currently among the top ten fastest growing tourist destinations in the world, with the number of incoming tourists reaching 15.5 million. Tourism plays a central role in driving the UAE economy, with its direct contribution to GDP reaching approximately AED 68.5 billion (US$ 18.7 billion) in 2016, equivalent to 5.2% of the total GDP. The total contribution reached AED 159.1 billion (US$ 42.3 billion), accounting for 12.1% of GDP. The UAE also topped the list of most attractive destinations for family tourism.

Tourism and travel sector revenues reached approximately AED 167 billion in 2022, accounting for 9% of GDP. These revenues increased to AED 220 billion in 2023, representing a growth of 26% compared to 2022 and a contribution of 11.7% to the country’s GDP.

The tourism sector also contributed to the creation of approximately 809,000 jobs in various tourism-related sectors in 2023.