According to Amac News: Based on the DCT Abu Dhabi announcement, the authority also welcomed more than 3.9 million visitors to its cultural events and attractions this year until October, a 21% increase compared to last year.
According to the source, from January to October 2024, Abu Dhabi welcomed 4.8 million hotel guests, a figure that exceeds the pre-pandemic figures. The majority of these guests were from India, China, Russia, the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s cultural venues, libraries and museums have welcomed more than 3.9 million visitors this year to October, a 21% increase compared to 2023.
However, Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030 aims to attract 39.3 million visitors, create 178,000 new jobs in the tourism sector and add AED 90 billion to GDP by 2030.
The latest city tourism briefing highlighted the growth of the emirate’s tourism and aviation industries. In this sector, Etihad Airways will launch 10 new routes in 2024 and Wizz Air Abu Dhabi will connect passengers to 35 destinations in 25 countries. Meanwhile, Air Arabia will serve more than 200 destinations from six strategic hubs in the UAE, Morocco, Egypt and Pakistan.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s approach to growth includes expanding into new international markets and strengthening its presence in existing ones. Business initiatives such as exhibitions, educational programs and collaborations with travel partners are designed to enhance Abu Dhabi’s global profile as a premier destination for leisure, entertainment, business events, arts and culture and heritage. Major entertainment and cultural projects underway include the expansion of Warner Bros. World with the addition of Harry Potter World, the construction of Saadiyat Cultural District by 2025 and the development of Hudiriyat Island as a sports and adventure hub, as well as the upgrade of Yas Waterpark.