Dubai welcomes over 9.88 million visitors in first half of 2025, cements status as global tourism hub

Dubai welcomes over 9.88 million visitors in first half of 2025, cements status as global tourism hub

Dubai has recorded a strong start to 2025, welcoming over 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of the year, marking a 6% increase compared to the same period in 2024, according to new figures released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

The robust growth reflects the city's continued momentum following a record-breaking 2024, when Dubai attracted 18.72 million international overnight visitors — a 9% year-on-year rise that eclipsed the previous record of 17.15 million set in 2023.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, hailed the achievement as a reflection of the long-term vision laid out by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai.

Dubai continues to set new records, welcoming over 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of this year, a 6% rise from the same period in 2024. This milestone reflects the vision of Mohammed bin Rashid to position Dubai among the world’s top three global tourism… pic.twitter.com/hfENVBFSsC

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) August 3, 2025

“This achievement is a testament to the vision to position Dubai among the world’s top three global tourism destinations, as outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33,” Sheikh Hamdan shared in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
“The achievement has been driven by strong public-private partnerships and an effective global marketing strategy. A warm welcome to all our visitors, from the heart of the world — Dubai.”

Strategically located at the crossroads of East and West, Dubai continues to leverage its world-class infrastructure, exceptional air connectivity, and diverse attractions to attract travelers from across the globe. The city’s success also underscores the strength of its collaborative tourism ecosystem, seamlessly integrating government initiatives with private sector participation.

With the second half of 2025 underway and several marquee events and exhibitions on the horizon, Dubai’s tourism trajectory appears firmly aligned with the ambitions of D33 — to make Dubai a sustainable economic powerhouse and one of the top three cities for business and tourism globally.