UAE Tourism Soars: A 275% Increase in Commercial Licenses by 2025

UAE Tourism Industry Experiences Remarkable Growth

By mid-September 2025, the UAEs tourism, hospitality, aviation, and digital tourism sectors witnessed a significant surge in commercial licenses, reaching a total of 39,546. This marks an impressive 275% increase compared to the same period in 2020, as reported by Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council.

Key Factors Driving Growth

Speaking on World Tourism Day 2025, Al Marri highlighted the UAEs ongoing reforms in business and investment regulations as pivotal to this growth. These reforms have enhanced the countrys attractiveness to international companies and investors, creating abundant opportunities in tourism-related industries.

Tourism: A Pillar of Sustainable Growth

Tourism remains a cornerstone of the UAEs economic strategy, driving sustainable growth. The UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 introduces new initiatives, including the much-anticipated sixth Worlds Coolest Winter campaign, set to launch in December.

Investing in Talent and Innovation

The UAE is actively collaborating with local and international partners to train Emirati talent for the tourism workforce. Efforts are also underway to encourage investments in the hospitality, travel, and aviation sectors, while supporting start-ups through innovative programs.

Strengthening Ties with Africa

In October, the UAE will host the UAE–Africa Tourism Investment Summit as part of the Future Hospitality Summit. This event aims to foster deeper bilateral partnerships across tourism, hospitality, and aviation sectors between the UAE and African nations.

Gulf Tourism Insights

In 2024, the UAE welcomed 3.3 million visitors from GCC countries, representing 11% of total hotel guests. Saudi Arabia led with 1.9 million visitors, followed by Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. This highlights the UAEs appeal as a prime destination for Gulf tourists.

Unified GCC Tourist Visa: A Strategic Move

The upcoming unified GCC tourist visa is set to enhance regional integration and boost the Gulfs appeal as a single tourism destination. A pilot launch is anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2025, with full implementation to follow.