UAE Hotel Revenues Climb Amid Expanding Tourism Sector

The United Arab Emirates’ hospitality industry generated more than AED 26 billion ($7 billion) in revenue during the first half of 2025, marking a 6.3% increase compared to the same period last year. According to figures shared by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism, nationwide hotel occupancy averaged 80.5%, reinforcing the sector’s strong growth trajectory.

Driving the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031

This performance aligns with the goals of the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which seeks to raise the sector’s contribution to the national economy to AED 450 billion ($122.5 billion) within the next decade. The broader strategy aims to diversify revenue streams, reduce reliance on hydrocarbons, and accelerate non-oil GDP growth.

Key Updates from the UAE Tourism Council

The figures were unveiled during the third meeting of the UAE Tourism Council in 2025, chaired by Minister Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri. Discussions focused on implementing new initiatives, strengthening collaboration with the private sector, and reviewing progress on prior recommendations. Local tourism authorities also presented their annual results and outlined development plans for 2026.

Employment and Expansion Outlook

Tourism and hospitality remain vital employers in the UAE, supporting more than 809,000 jobs—over 12% of the national workforce—in 2023. In Dubai alone, an additional 20,000 hotel rooms are expected by 2030 to help meet the country’s ambitious target of welcoming 40 million hotel guests annually by 2031.

Wynn Resorts Bets Big on Ras Al Khaimah

Private capital continues to pour into the UAE’s hospitality infrastructure. Wynn Resorts is currently building a $3.9 billion integrated resort on Al Marjan Island in Ras Al Khaimah, slated to open in 2027. The property will feature 1,530 rooms and suites, upscale dining, entertainment venues, and what could become the first licensed casino in the Gulf region.

Designed to be Wynn’s tallest global development, the resort will also house a luxury marina created in partnership with IGY Marinas and Marina Solutions International, offering 101 berths, concierge services, and advanced docking systems catering to ultra-high-net-worth visitors.

Land Reserved for a Second Resort

In addition, Wynn and its partners have earmarked nearly 1.5 million square feet of land—partially reclaimed from the sea—for a potential second integrated resort on Al Marjan Island. According to shareholder agreements filed with the U.S. SEC, the designated parcels include the “Second Integrated Resort Site,” “Janu Site,” and “Luxury Hotel and Apartments Site,” alongside a broader land reserve.