Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Industry Skyrockets in 2023: Welcoming 24 Million Visitors and Contributing Over 49 Billion Dirhams to GDP

In 2023, Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry experienced a remarkable growth of 55.5%, welcoming approximately 24 million visitors compared to 18 million in the previous year. This increase was fueled by an impressive 27% increase in hotel guests and a staggering 54% increase in international visitors, contributing significantly to the economy and adding about 49 billion dirhams to the GDP.

The emirate’s vibrant entertainment calendar was a significant draw for tourists, featuring over 150 events that showcased Abu Dhabi’s pristine beaches, natural landscapes, cultural sites, and iconic monuments such as Qasr Al Hosn, Qasr Al Watan, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The Louvre Abu Dhabi and Manar Abu Dhabi Public Art Gallery also attracted millions of visitors with their museums, cultural festivals, and art exhibitions.

Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry saw an influx of visitors due to a whopping 44% increase in meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions events that attracted over 960,000 participants in more than 2,477 events. This surge resulted in a substantial increase of about 21% in food and beverage sector revenues as tourists explored the city’s attractions and dining options.

Major entertainment events like the Mother of the Nation Festival and the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Grand Prix were among the highlights that strengthened Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a global entertainment and tourism hotspot. Cultural events such as the Al Hosn Festival and Liwa Festival also contributed significantly to its allure.