UAE says tourism downturn is over and sector is ready to take off
Dubai: The UAE’s tourism sector has moved beyond the recent period of regional disruption and is entering a new phase of growth, Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri said at Arabian Travel Market 2026. “The descending is over, and let's prepare for ascending. We are going to take off. Our tourism sector is yet to begin from the date of today onward,” he said, adding that…
The UAE's tourism sector has moved past recent regional disruption and is on the verge of a growth phase, according to Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri at Arabian Travel Market 2026. Al Marri emphasized the sector's resilience as being built into its foundation over the past 50 years, rather than just a response to crises.
During the recent instability, operators maintained employment levels without resorting to short-term discounts, which protected the destination's long-term brand and workforce stability. The minister highlighted the importance of planning and prompt coordination, noting that cooperation among Gulf countries has strengthened their resilience.
The 33rd edition of Arabian Travel Market, held from September 14 to 17 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, will feature over 210 speakers discussing resilience, international cooperation, AI, aviation, hospitality, and sustainability. Other officials at the event included Shaikha Al Nuwais, Secretary General for UN Tourism, and Fatima Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism for the Kingdom of Bahrain.
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