Abu Dhabi's Tourism Sector Targets AED 62 Billion Contribution To Economy By 2025

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has outlined ambitious goals for the emirate's tourism sector. The department aims to contribute AED62 billion to the economy by 2025, marking a 13 percent increase from 2024. By 2030, the target is for tourism to add AED90 billion to Abu Dhabi's non-oil GDP.

In the first quarter of 2025, international overnight hotel guests in Abu Dhabi increased by 4 percent compared to the same period in 2024. India, China, Russia, and the UK remained key source markets. Hotel occupancy across the emirate reached 79 percent, with Abu Dhabi city itself achieving an occupancy rate of 82 percent.

Al Mubarak emphasised the importance of cultural institutions like teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi in enhancing tourism. This new addition joins other notable museums such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi. These venues are located in Saadiyat Cultural District and reflect the UAE’s values of coexistence and its rich cultural identity.

The ongoing investment in culture is inspired by Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan's vision. This commitment underscores the UAE’s rise as a global cultural hub. Al Mubarak highlighted Saadiyat Cultural District's role as a cultural and historical treasure, with museums serving as vital centres for future generations.

He announced plans for three additional museums to open in Saadiyat Cultural District this year. These developments aim to further solidify Abu Dhabi's status as a leading global arts and culture destination. The teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi exemplifies this diversity and ambition.

The strategic focus on culture aligns with broader economic goals. By investing in cultural assets, Abu Dhabi seeks not only to attract tourists but also to enrich its non-oil economy significantly by 2030.

With inputs from WAM