According to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, the city welcomed 9.88 million overnight international visitors in the first half of 2025, a 6% increase over the same period last year. This success contributes to the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to place the city among the world’s top three tourist destinations.
India remains a key market, with Mumbai ranking high among source cities. During this era, Dubai International Airport recorded 1.2 million passengers from Mumbai alone. Strong cultural and economic ties, combined with celebrity-led promotions, have helped attract Indian tourists seeking luxury, leisure, and adventure.
Tourism development has been fuelled by global campaigns like “Find Your Story” and “Dubai, Ready for a Surprise?” that have resonated in India. Emirates Airlines has increased demand by offering benefits such as free hotel stays and discounted attraction passes.
Dubai International Airport handled 46 million passengers in the first six months of 2025, up 2.3% from the previous year.
Tourists continue to be drawn to attractions such as the Museum of the Future, which has received 4 million visitors since 2022, and the city’s parks, which drew 16.7 million people in 2025.
