UAE Announces 1 Million Job Opportunities in Tourism for 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is quickly becoming one of the world’s top countries for tourism jobs. According to the latest Economic Impact Research (EIR) by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), almost one million people will be working in the UAE’s travel and tourism industry by the end of 2025.

This report shows that more than 925,000 people are expected to be employed in the sector in 2025. That’s over 26,000 more jobs compared to 2024. This increase proves that the UAE has made a strong comeback after the COVID-19 pandemic and that the government’s efforts to grow the tourism sector are working well. From building new attractions to improving travel policies, the UAE has been focusing on tourism as a key part of its economy.

With strong planning, smart investments, and a clear vision for the future, the UAE is becoming a leader in global tourism. From job creation to exciting new attractions, the country is turning tourism into one of its biggest success stories. Whether you’re a traveler, investor, or local resident, the future of tourism in the UAE looks brighter than ever.

Tourism Spending and Economy Growth Hit New Records

The WTTC report also says that spending by international visitors in the UAE will hit an all-time high of AED 228.5 billion in 2025. This will be a 37% rise compared to 2019, the previous record year before the pandemic.

The total value of the travel and tourism industry is expected to reach AED 267.5 billion in 2025. This means it will make up nearly 13% of the UAE’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Local tourism is also getting stronger, with domestic travelers expected to spend around AED 60 billion—a 47% increase since 2019.

Julia Simpson, the President and CEO of WTTC, praised the UAE for its great progress. She said,

“The UAE remains a global leader in tourism, with smart infrastructure, excellent hospitality, and streamlined visa policies. It’s a testament to how strategic planning can drive economic success.”

Simpson also pointed out the importance of big national plans like the Tourism Strategy 2031 and the National Tourism Charter. These programs are guiding the UAE’s tourism industry toward a future that is both sustainable and innovative, helping it grow in a smart and long-term way.

2024 Achievements and What’s Coming Next

In 2024, the tourism sector already made a big impact on the UAE’s economy. It added AED 257.3 billion to the country’s income and provided jobs for about 899,000 people. That means nearly one out of every eight workers in the UAE was part of the tourism industry.

Dubai had an excellent year in 2024, welcoming 18.72 million international visitors, which is a 9% increase from the year before. Spending by visitors also stayed high. International tourists spent AED 217.3 billion, while local travelers spent AED 57.6 billion.

Looking forward, the WTTC believes that by 2035, the tourism sector in the UAE will be even bigger. It is expected to add AED 287.8 billion to the economy, which will be 10.4% of the country’s GDP. It will also give jobs to over one million people, proving the importance of tourism in the UAE’s future.

Abu Dhabi’s Rise as a World-Class Tourism Destination

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is becoming a major name in the world of tourism. The city is working on several big projects to attract more visitors and become a top spot for culture and entertainment.

One of the biggest upcoming projects is the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a world-famous art museum being built on Saadiyat Island. This will add to the city’s cultural charm. Meanwhile, Yas Island, already known for its theme parks, is getting even better:

• Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi will launch a new Harry Potter-themed attraction
• Yas Waterworld is adding 12 exciting new water rides, including the tallest waterslide in the UAE
• Ferrari World is getting ready to open a record-breaking roller coaster
• A brand-new Disney-themed resort is being developed in partnership with The Walt Disney Company and Miral, which will be a major attraction for families

Abu Dhabi is also focusing on unique cultural experiences. One example is teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a digital art museum offering an immersive experience. It has already started attracting large numbers of visitors.

Thanks to these big and creative projects, Abu Dhabi is not just keeping up with global travel trends—it is setting new standards. The city is proving that tourism can be both fun and sustainable, helping both the economy and the environment.

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