In a recent interview on the AB Majlis podcast for World Tourism Day, Hoor Al Khaja, Senior Vice President of International Operations at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), pulled back the curtain on the city’s thriving tourism landscape and DET’s ambitious vision for the future.
The emirate is experiencing a tourism boom in 2024, with 10.62 million visitors arriving in the first seven months – an 8 per cent increase over the same period last year. “We’re well on our way to achieve our tourism vision and targets,” said Al Khaja, citing a robust 77 per cent hotel occupancy rate despite continually increasing room supply.
Al Khaja attributes Dubai’s success as a global tourism powerhouse to the unified vision and leadership of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. “There is a very strong public and private partnership into achieving this vision because it becomes a win-win situation,” she explained.
A diversified approach to source markets and tourism propositions has been key. “Dubai has something to offer everyone, whether you’re talking about sports, luxury, business, culture, heritage, family, or medical tourism,” noted Al Khaja. Dubai also caters to all budgets with a range of hotel options and activities.
Safety, security, and stringent quality control provide crucial support. “It’s something we’re extremely lucky and proud of,” said Al Khaja. “It’s a huge consideration for travellers, particularly families and solo women.”
Looking ahead, the emirate will continue reinventing itself with new mega-projects like the Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab resort and infrastructure expansions at Dubai World Central Airport. “It’s going to cater to around 150 million passengers and eventually more than 250 million, which will make it the largest airport in the world,” revealed Al Qaja.
A Dubai South cultural district with an opera house and theatre is also on the horizon. “Lots to look forward to [in the] short and long term, all in line with where we see ourselves as a global city.”
Al Khaja’s overarching message to the world: “Dubai has something for everyone. We invite people to come experience the soul of the city and put aside any misconceptions.” With DET’s visionary strategy, the emirate is solidifying its position as one of the planet’s premier destinations.
Her comments came as the world will observe World Tourism Day on Wednesday, an annual celebration aimed at raising awareness about the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, political and economic values.
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