Abu Dhabi has experienced a remarkable surge in tourist arrivals this year, with the latest data confirming a significant increase. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) reported that 1.4 million overnight guests visited the emirate in the first quarter of 2025. This represents a substantial rise compared to the previous year, with tourists arriving from key markets including India, China, Russia, the UK, and the US.

The hospitality sector is also thriving, generating Dhs2.3 billion in revenue, which marks an impressive 18 percent increase from last year. Hotel occupancy rates have remained high at 79 percent, indicating that visitors are enjoying their stays in the capital. This data serves as strong evidence that Abu Dhabi is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers.

Moreover, Abu Dhabi is on track to meet its ambitious goal of contributing Dhs62 billion to the local economy through tourism in 2025, which is expected to support approximately 255 000 jobs. This growth aligns with the emirate’s long-term Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors annually by the end of the decade. Upcoming attractions, such as the newly opened teamLab Phenomena at Saadiyat Cultural District and the anticipated Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim, are expected to further boost tourism in the region.