Abu Dhabi’s ambitious 2030 tourism strategy: GDP contribution at $90bn, over 178,000 jobs

Image credit: Abu Dhabi Media Office

In a significant announcement, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, has revealed the launch of the emirate’s Tourism Strategy 2030.

The strategy aims to further Abu Dhabi’s journey towards sustainable growth and global prominence in the tourism sector, noted the statement from Abu Dhabi Media Office.

2023 in numbers

The unveiling of the Tourism Strategy 2030 comes on the heels of an exceptional performance in 2023 for Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector.

Notably, the emirate welcomed nearly 24 million visitors, representing an increase of more than 30 per cent from the previous year.

Moreover, the tourism industry made significant contributions to Abu Dhabi’s economy, with a GDP boost of Dhs49bn, marking a more than 22 per cent increase from 2022. The hotel sector alone contributed Dhs6.4bn to the emirate’s economy.

Impetus for tourism

The Tourism Strategy 2030 reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to transform its social and economic landscape through sustainable development, aligning with the objectives of Abu Dhabi’s Economic Vision 2030, added Abu Dhabi Media office.

By nurturing talent in the tourism sector and strengthening its role in supporting economic growth, the strategy aims to position Abu Dhabi as one of the fastest-growing global destinations for international visitors.

His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, today approved the launch of Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030. pic.twitter.com/9NbNvE5wcR

— Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (@dctabudhabi) March 28, 2024

Strategic pillars

Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030 outlines ambitious objectives, including boosting visitor numbers to 39.3 million and increasing the sector’s GDP contribution to Dhs90bn by 2030.

Additionally, the strategy aims to create 178,000 new jobs, comprising direct, indirect, and induced roles.

To achieve these goals, the strategy is built upon six strategic pillars:

• Culture and heritage: Promoting authentic Emirati culture and iconic contemporary assets.
• Sun and Sea: Enhancing pristine beaches near central city areas.
• MICE: Establishing Abu Dhabi as a top-of-mind business destination for global and regional events.
• Nature and adventure: Showcasing Arabian deserts and untouched islands for adventure seekers.
• Family entertainment: Offering world-renowned family theme parks and entertainment venues.
• Vibrant urban experience: Providing an elevated lifestyle with live entertainment events, varied retail offerings, and an evolving culinary scene.

Looking ahead, Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030 serves as a blueprint for innovation and progress, aiming to enhance the emirate’s global position in culture and tourism.

Read: Louvre Abu Dhabi draws over 1.2million visitors in 2023