Abu Dhabi has added 37,000 new jobs to its tourism sector in 2024, increasing the total workforce to 225,000, up from 188,000 last year. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) attributes this growth to global promotional efforts that have boosted visitor numbers.

Saood Al Hosani, undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, told The National that the tourism sector is projected to contribute Dh55 billion ($14.9 billion) to the emirate’s GDP in 2024, up from Dh46 billion in 2023. By 2030, the sector aims to exceed Dh90 billion.

The Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030 plans to create 178,000 additional jobs and increase Emiratisation in the sector to 10% by 2025, up from 3% currently.

The emirate expects 6.2 million hotel guests this year, a 10% increase from 2023, with occupancy rates reaching 83% in December. To meet the growing demand, Abu Dhabi plans to add 360 hotel rooms by year-end and 1,000 more in 2025, focusing on four- and five-star properties.

China, India, Russia, and the UK remain top sources of international visitors, with growing air connectivity driving demand. DCT Abu Dhabi is also exploring new markets, including regions within the CIS, and recently launched the Abu Dhabi Stopover campaign with Etihad Airways, aiming to attract 100,000 visitors.

Major cultural attractions like the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Zayed National Museum are set to open in 2025, further enhancing the emirate’s appeal. Venture capital firms are showing interest in funding tourism-related projects, with new deals expected to be announced in early 2025.

Abu Dhabi is poised to benefit from Saudi Arabia’s hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup, which is expected to boost tourism across the Gulf region, supported by plans for a unified Gulf tourist visa.

As part of its economic diversification strategy, Abu Dhabi continues to strengthen its tourism sector, driving job creation and economic growth.