The UAE’s tourism sector recorded 62 per cent occupancy rate in the first half of 2021, outperforming 10 other major global tourism destinations including China (54%), USA (45%), Mexico (38%), the UK (37%) and Turkey (36%). The country’s hotel and tourism establishments attracted nearly 8.3 million guests during this period, recording 15% growth compared to that of H1-2020.

During the reference period, guests spent nearly 35 million nights in the UAE hotels reflecting a growth of 30%, while the average length of their stay increased to 4.1 nights at a 12.5% growth, Emirates news agency WAM reported.

This is accompanied by a 31% growth in hotel establishments’ revenues to reach AED11.3 billion ($3 billion). Domestic tourism accounted for 30% of the total number of guests at these establishments.

Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs, and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi affirmed that the positive results highlight the strength and flexibility of the national tourism sector, the development of the UAE’s tourism market, the diversity of its products, and the efficiency of national campaigns in highlighting the tourism components that characterise the country.

In addition, they shed light on the diverse destinations housed by the seven emirates; and the continuous development of their hospitality features and services. He noted that the latest achievement is a result of concerted government efforts aimed at developing domestic tourism.

Al Falasi pointed out that these results are of great relevance in light of the tightening of travel restrictions in some major tourism markets around the world due to the impact of Covid-19.

It reflects guests’ trust in the national tourism products, and their competitiveness in establishing themselves as preferred choices for the country’s citizens and residents, compared to other foreign tourist destinations, he added.