Dubai tourism numbers are climbing fast in 2025, reflecting the city’s growing appeal as a top destination. Between January and May, Dubai welcomed 8.68 million international visitors, a 7% jump compared to the same period last year. The momentum is strong, with 1.53 million people arriving in May alone.
Hotels across the city are staying busy. By the end of May, occupancy rates averaged 83%, up from 81% last year. Dubai now boasts more than 153,000 hotel rooms spread across 825 properties, offering something for every type of traveler.
Even the skies are busier. Dubai International Airport handled a record 46 million passengers in the first half of 2025, signaling a healthy recovery and strong demand for travel to the city.
A Regional Leader in a Global Travel Boom
This surge in Dubai tourism numbers is part of a much larger trend. As travel rebounds worldwide, the Middle East and especially Dubai, is leading the charge. The travel and tourism sector are expected to add $367 billion to the region’s economy this year, with visitor spending reaching almost $194 billion, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
According to a joint report by the World Economic Forum and Kearney, global tourism growth is on track to reach 30 billion trips annually by 2034. That could bring $16 trillion into the world economy. While deal-making in the travel sector has slowed globally, the Middle East remains a bright spot.
Experts say Dubai’s success comes down to a mix of smart visa reforms, new airline routes, and strong marketing in key markets. Europe, South Asia, the GCC, and Eastern Europe continue to send millions of tourists, making Dubai one of the most visited cities in the world once again.
With the latest Dubai tourism numbers showing consistent growth, and broader global tourism growth trends looking positive, the city’s tourism future appears brighter than ever.
