Abu Dhabi to welcome more than 24 million visitors this year

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has announced new performance targets for the emirate, including an ambitious target to attract more than 24 million visitors to the emirate by the end of 2023.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi, affirmed the start of an ambitious new chapter for the emirate’s tourism sector, according to the state news agency, WAM.

The UAE’s capital city welcomed a total 18 million visitors – a 13 per cent increase from the previous year, while the hotel occupancy rates reached 70 per cent, which surpasses the Middle East average of 67 per cent.

The highest number of international visitors arrived from India, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the US, respectively.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi: “Our ambitious goal to welcome more than 24 million visitors by the end of 2023 builds on healthy growth over the past year. This encouraging performance was enabled through powerful collaborations and the delivery of memorable travel and business experiences across the whole year, supported by an integrated ecosystem of best-in-class services, infrastructure, and impactful marketing. In Abu Dhabi, we are demonstrating the power of partnerships across the tourism sector and the fact that collectively we can thrive.”

Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, the tourism body’s director general, said: “The success we have achieved so far inspires us to strive for more. We are committed to delivering on our ambitions for 2023 by further elevating the successful strategy of creating and delivering unique experiences for everyone to enjoy and a diverse range of year-round events for visitors in collaboration with our global IP partners. This is complemented by a MICE industry that continues to thrive, owing to the emirate’s world-leading venues, hotels, and supporting facilities.

Events in Abu Dhabi

Last year, the emirate hosted a diverse range of over 100 events during a 180-day period, featuring A-list global talent. From the legendary Grammy award-winning singer Sting to BLACKPINK, and AR Rahman, WAM reported.

The emirate also hosted festivals such as Mother of the Nation (MOTN) and LIWA festivals.

Global sporting events such as the Grand Prix, NBA, and UFC also garnered global attention.

The emirate also launched two tourism campaigns last year.

Additionally, a month-long programme of activities was held to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Louvre Abu Dhabi’s, alongside two high-profile events, namely, Abu Dhabi Art and Culture Summit Abu Dhabi.

The tourism body will be at Arabian Travel Market this year. The trade show commences on May 1.

We are all set and excited to be returning to the Arabian Travel Market, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s unique culture, leisure and entertainment offerings to the world. ​

Visit our stand in ME2410 & ME2450, and experience the wonders found #InAbuDhabi at your own pace! pic.twitter.com/iyNsgGIN4k

— Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (@dctabudhabi) April 25, 2023