Abu Dhabi has set a bold target of attracting 39.3 million annual visitors by 2030 as it builds on a strong performance in the first quarter of 2025. Between January and March this year, the emirate recorded 1.4 million hotel guests, contributing to an 18% year-on-year surge in hotel revenue, which reached AED 2.3 billion.

The hospitality sector also saw a 25% jump in revenue per available room (RevPAR), which hit AED 484, while overall hotel occupancy remained steady at 79%, including during the Ramadan period. Top source markets included India, China, Russia, the UK, and the US, demonstrating Abu Dhabi’s wide global appeal.

These figures reflect the effectiveness of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to contribute AED 62 billion to the emirate’s economy in 2025 and support 255,000 tourism-related jobs. It also includes plans to expand hotel capacity to 50,000 rooms by the end of the decade.

Speaking ahead of the 32nd edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), said, “Our strategic approach to elevating Abu Dhabi as a cultural and tourism destination is delivering tangible results. As we showcase the offerings of our emirate at Arabian Travel Market, we are focused on strengthening partnerships and accelerating progress towards our long-term tourism goals—all while ensuring that Abu Dhabi’s unique cultural identity remains at the heart of everything we offer.”

In 2024, Abu Dhabi saw 3.2 million international overnight visitors and generated AED 7.6 billion in total hotel revenue. The emirate has also significantly ramped up its global presence. From operating in 11 international markets in 2023, DCT Abu Dhabi expanded its reach to 25 markets in 2024, targeting high-potential regions including APAC, Eastern Europe, and the CIS.

One of the key highlights at ATM 2025 is the Experience Abu Dhabi stand, offering immersive showcases of the emirate’s cultural identity. Visitors can explore highlights from the Saadiyat Cultural District, which recently welcomed the opening of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. Upcoming institutions in the district include the Zayed National Museum, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Regional destinations like Al Ain and Al Dhafra are also being prominently featured.

With a solid foundation of performance, an ambitious roadmap, and expanding international reach, Abu Dhabi is well on track to becoming a leading global tourism hub.