Tourism in Dubai is returning back with the Emirate witnessing more than 6 million visitors in the first 11 months of 2021. According to reports, these numbers have surpassed the figures for the entire 2020.

Speaking in this regard, Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, (DCTCM), said that the emirate's tourism was able to recover due to the strategic measures taken by the government. These proactive measures facilitated Dubai in safely navigating and accelerating out of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the year 2020, Dubai received 5.5 million overseas visitors as compared to 16.7 million in 2021 due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Kazim also underlined that 9.4 million room nights were sold out between January and October 2021 due to domestic tourism alone. These figures demonstrated the success of the concept of staycation and the growth of tourism in the emirate.

Addressing the welcome speech at the second edition of the Dubai Accessible Tourism International Summit, Kazim noted that the city has regained its vibrancy in line with the implementation of the highest standards of hygiene and safety across the tourism sector. Dubai authorities organised the Expo 2020 Dubai with safety and precautions while ensuring that all visitors have a memorable experience.

"Having already effectively enforced these citywide health and safety measures, Dubai is in a strong position to overcome any current or new challenges,” Kazim said added.

The Summit saw the participation of 20 speakers and experts from government and private agencies along with representatives of the International Air Transport Association (Iata), Airports Council International, the World Tourism Organisation and the World Health Organisation.

During the summit, he also pointed out that Dubai has emerged as one of the most preferred destinations for global travellers. This development has come in accordance with Dubai's position as one the safest destinations in the world and the ever-growing diversity the Emirate offers to its visitors. The hosting of Expo 2020 has helped in reopening and expansion of the tourism sector and economy of Dubai.

Momentum continues in 2022

The DCTCM chief further expressed optimism about the future of tourism in Dubai, thanks to the rollout of vaccination and booster programmes in countries across the world.

“As confidence continues to grow within the industry and among travellers, especially with the rollout of vaccinations and booster programmes around the world, we will continue to build on the gains of 2021 and expect to see momentum accelerating in 2022 and beyond,” he added.

He also pointed out that Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan will strengthen Dubai's position as a tourist destination over the two decades.

People from countries across the world are travelling more consciously and safely. For them, holidays have become more special in search of more local experience.

In conclusion, he said that Dubai is continuously striving to achieve the goal of becoming one of the most tourist destinations for all visitors, particularly for people of determination.

"Dubai is progressing at a steady pace to achieve its vision of becoming the friendliest destination for people of determination. The government is working towards achieving the goal by implementing relevant legislation and adopting smart solutions to provide the best services for this segment of tourists,” he added.