UAE Tourism Sector Set to Contribute 12% to GDP in 2024, ATM Highlights Global Collaboration

UAE, 8 May, 2024 :  Abdullah Bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, announced that the tourism sector is projected to account for 12% of the UAE's GDP in 2024, up from 11.7% in 2023, amounting to Dhs236 billion. He made this statement at the opening of the 31st edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) held at Dubai World Trade Centre until May 9.

The ATM's inaugural day saw discussions on Gulf-wide collaboration, inter-regional travel ease, and infrastructure development. Al Marri's address was followed by a panel discussion featuring prominent figures from GCC countries discussing the importance of inter-regional initiatives in enhancing the tourism industry.

The ministerial panel highlighted the significance of the planned GCC Unified Tourist Visa in promoting the region as a connected destination, thereby increasing accessibility and driving key performance indicators such as length of stay, average spend, and employment.

Speakers emphasized the role of infrastructure, including airports, cruise terminals, and the upcoming GCC Railway, in improving accessibility within and between Gulf nations, further enhancing the region's tourism potential.

Meanwhile, Andrea Corsini, Emilia Romagna's Regional Minister for Tourism in Italy, underscored Italy's participation in ATM, emphasizing the country's rich tourist attractions, particularly in the Emilia Romagna region.

Nikos Chardalias, Governor of the Attica Region in Greece, praised ATM for bringing together global tourism and travel stakeholders, highlighting opportunities for cooperation between Attica and Dubai in luxury tourism, including yachting.

The event serves as a platform for countries to showcase their tourism offerings and explore collaboration opportunities in the dynamic global tourism industry.

Source : www.gulftoday.ae