The UAE’s tourism sector continues to deliver record results: in 2024, its contribution to the national economy reached AED 257.3 billion ($70.1 billion), accounting for 13% of the country’s GDP. This is 3.2% higher than in 2023 and 26% above the pre-pandemic level of 2019.
Dubai’s infrastructure is rapidly developing. Dubai International Airport (DXB) entered the world’s top 5 airports for low-cost travel, ranking fifth. The leaders of the list were the airports of Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, Manila, and Hong Kong.
At the same time, construction has officially begun on the new Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), set to become the world’s largest and most advanced airport. The first phase is planned to be completed by 2032, after which DWC will gradually replace DXB. Eventually, it will be capable of serving up to 260 million passengers annually.
Dubai is also investing in autonomous transport. A 15-kilometer Dubai Autonomous Zone will be created, where residents will be able to travel using driverless taxis, buses, and boats. Regulations for self-driving trucks are also being developed, with testing planned in key areas including Jebel Ali Port, railway freight terminals, Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Investments Park, and Ibn Battuta Mall. The government’s goal is for 25% of all trips in Dubai to be autonomous by 2030.
Innovation is also extending into air mobility. In 2027, Joby Aviation will launch inter-emirate flying taxi routes. The first connection will link Dubai International Airport with Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, where the Wynn Resorts casino resort will be open by then. The flight will take only 15 minutes, with a maximum speed of 321 km/h. A second route will connect Al Marjan with Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the UAE. Additionally, Joby will introduce domestic flying taxi services within Ras Al Khaimah itself, where tourist arrivals grew by 6% and tourism revenues by 9% in the first half of 2025.
The hospitality sector is also expanding. In 2030, Dubai will welcome the new Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah Golf Estates resort, featuring 121 rooms, 97 residences, a spa center, restaurants, golf courses, an equestrian center, and riding trails.
Finally, starting from October 1, the iconic Dubai Fountain will resume its shows. Evening performances will run every 30 minutes between 18:00 and 23:00, while daytime shows will be held at 13:00 and 13:30 daily, and at 14:00 and 14:30 on Fridays.
All these initiatives highlight Dubai’s ambition to solidify its role as a global center for tourism and innovation, offering visitors and residents new opportunities for leisure, travel, and business.
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