Dubai welcomes over 9.88 million international visitors in first half of 2025

Dubai recorded over 9.88 million international visitors in the first half of 2025, marking a 6 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, according to the latest data released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET).

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence, highlighted that this achievement is a testament to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, to position the city among the world’s top three global tourism destinations, as outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

“The achievement has been driven by strong public-private partnerships and an effective global marketing strategy. A warm welcome to all our visitors, from the heart of the world — Dubai,” Sheikh Hamdan wrote on X.

Dubai had earlier welcomed a record 18.72 million international overnight visitors between January and December 2024 — a 9 per cent year-on-year increase that surpassed the previous high of 17.15 million in 2023.

Thanks to its strategic location at the crossroads of East and West, exceptional connectivity, and world-class infrastructure, Dubai continues to solidify its position as a preferred global travel destination.