621,000 Guests in Al Ain and Al Dhafra Hotels in 2025

Al Ain and Al Dhafra hotels experienced unprecedented demand in 2025, with a total of 621,000 hotel guests. This figure indicates a strong performance in the hospitality sector, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s commitment to enhancing its position as a global tourist destination. These positive results are attributed to robust regional and international marketing efforts, making 2025 a pivotal year for tourism development in the region.

Continuous Growth in Al Ain

Al Ain alone welcomed 473,100 hotel guests during the year, achieving an estimated 9% increase compared to the previous year. This performance was bolstered by a similar growth in occupancy rates, indicating a boom in leisure tourism. The notable increase in visitor numbers underscores the impact of efforts made to promote the diverse tourist attractions in the city.

Al Dhafra: An Emerging Destination

The Al Dhafra region welcomed 147,900 hotel guests, recording a growth rate of 3% and a significant increase in occupancy rates of 19%. This strong performance reflects tourists’ interest in the region’s natural and heritage sites, as Al Dhafra stands out as one of the most attractive destinations in the emirate. Major events, such as the Liwa International Festival, play a crucial role in boosting tourism presence in Al Dhafra.

Tourism Achievements and Future Strategies

Al Ain has been announced as the Arab Tourism Capital for 2026, after earning the title of Gulf Tourism Capital for 2025. This recognition reinforces the strategy of the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi to achieve its ambitious tourism development goals by 2030. Additionally, festivals and large events have contributed to enhancing the visitor experience and increasing demand for tourism services, further elevating Al Ain’s status as a unique destination that combines heritage and nature.

The Impact of International Markets

With the flourishing tourism in both regions, international markets have also shown rapid growth, with the Chinese market experiencing the highest increase at 79%. The Indian market recorded a 59% rise, while the Pakistani market saw a growth rate of 42%. These figures highlight the growing importance of international partnerships in promoting tourism in Al Ain and Al Dhafra.

Thanks to the ongoing focus on development and innovation, Al Ain and Al Dhafra hotels will remain at the forefront of the tourism landscape, attracting an increasing number of visitors in the coming years. These achievements clearly indicate that Al Ain and Al Dhafra are making significant strides in tourism, contributing to a promising future for the sector in Abu Dhabi.