13.5 Billion Dirhams in Hotel Revenues During the First Quarter
The hospitality sector in the United Arab Emirates has witnessed significant growth, with hotel establishments generating revenues estimated at 13.5 billion dirhams during the first quarter of this year, reflecting the continued expansion of this vital sector. This development is part of ongoing efforts to boost tourism and enhance the country’s status as a preferred destination for travelers. The article explores various aspects of this growth and its impact on the future of hospitality in the UAE.
Meeting of the Hospitality Advisory Council
The Hospitality Advisory Council held its second meeting for 2025, chaired by His Excellency Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the UAE Tourism Council. Sixteen presidents and executives from a range of national and international hotels attended the meeting, where several new national initiatives aimed at enhancing the growth of the hospitality sector were discussed.
Record Numbers in the Sector
Abdullah bin Touq stated that “hotel revenues during the first quarter of 2025 reached approximately 13.5 billion dirhams,” with hotels welcoming over 8.4 million guests, indicating a 2% increase compared to the same period last year. The total number of hotel nights reached 29.3 million, with an occupancy rate of 81.3% during the same period.
Investments and Government Support
Bin Touq added that “the achieved figures reflect the significant interest the state has in developing the hospitality industry.” Substantial investments have been made to enhance hotel infrastructure and major global organizations, contributing to the provision of exceptional hospitality experiences that reflect Emirati culture and heritage.
A Special Year for UAE Tourism
2025 is not just an ordinary year; it marks a pivotal moment in the journey of UAE tourism, especially after the election of Sheikha Al Nuaimi as the first woman to hold the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. This achievement enhances the UAE’s leading role in supporting global tourism development.
The council also discussed initiatives that support sector growth, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between governments and the private sector to achieve the goals set forth in the “National Tourism Strategy 2031,” which aims to make the UAE the best tourism identity in the world by the next decade. The Hospitality Advisory Council serves as a platform for providing advice and supporting new initiatives in the sector, reflecting the state’s commitment to achieving further accomplishments in hospitality.