According to a recent report released by the World Tourism Organization on international tourism expenditure, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has secured a prominent position on the global stage. In fact, the UAE proudly clinched the fourth spot worldwide when it comes to international tourist spending. The figures reveal an impressive Dh224 billion spent by visitors in the country over the course of the previous year.
This achievement underscores the UAE’s growing allure as a premier international travel destination. Tourists from all corners of the globe are evidently drawn to the UAE’s unique blend of modernity and tradition, its stunning landscapes, world-class infrastructure, and vibrant cultural scene.
The remarkable influx of tourist spending not only boosts the country’s economy but also reflects the hospitality and the array of experiences the UAE offers its visitors. From the gleaming skyscrapers of Dubai to the cultural heritage sites of Abu Dhabi and the natural wonders of the desert, the UAE has something to captivate every traveler.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai, took to his official account on X platform to announce the results.
“Two days ago, the United Nations World Tourism Organization report was issued. The UAE ranked fourth in the world in international tourist spending, with a total of 224 billion dirhams last year alone, outperforming ancient countries such as France, Italy, Turkey, and Germany in international tourist spending. Only the United States preceded us in the ranking. Spain and Britain.” His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stated.
With the results His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also gave a short story showcasing the vision that he had and is now being achieved.
“ On the sidelines of one of the Cooperation Council meetings in the 1980s, while the ministers were discussing the crises that the region is going through and the endless challenges… I was in my mid-thirties and I was the youngest person in the session… and the most bored of the endless political talk… I asked to talk, and I suggested The ministers have a different proposal: Why don’t we develop the Gulf cities into global tourist destinations… and can we start from Dubai?
All eyes turned to me… and there was a little silence… before it was interrupted by the laughter of one of the older foreign ministers…
Then he said: What will tourists find in Dubai and our Gulf cities? The desert! Sand! Heat and humidity! The rest laughed.
Then he added a tone of experience to his speech and said: Then, Sheikh Mohammed, where is the cultural and civilizational heritage and human history in Dubai so that people can visit it!
I did not argue with him, but I felt sad because we do not make better use of our wealth, we do not trust our youth, and we do not try anything different other than what we know and are familiar with!
I read the report and remembered my friend, the Foreign Minister.”
As the UAE continues to evolve as a global tourism hotspot, it is likely that this upward trajectory in tourist spending will persist, bringing not only economic benefits but also fostering cultural exchange and international understanding. The future looks promising for the UAE’s tourism industry, and it will undoubtedly remain a destination of choice for travelers seeking memorable and enriching experiences.
