DET showcases collaboration, growth at second City Briefing

Staff Reporter, Gulf Today

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) hosted its second and final City Briefing of 2025, bringing together more than 1,200 stakeholders from across the hospitality, aviation, retail, and F&B sectors, as well as government entities and members of the media, to reflect on the collective progress being made across the destination, and the roadmap for further growth and enhancements.

Held at Global Village, courtesy of Dubai Holding Entertainment, the latest edition of the bi-annual stakeholder engagement platform featured an enhanced interactive format that underscored the critical role of public-private partnerships in advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, and further consolidating Dubai’s position as a leading global destination for business and leisure. DET and industry leaders participated in presentations, a panel discussion and fireside chat that examined collaborative efforts to further bolster the tourism sector.

In the presence of Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the latest edition began with a comprehensive presentation from Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, which focused on the city’s achievements and growth strategy for 2026. Building on the record 18.72 million international overnight visitors achieved in 2024, Dubai has continued its upward trajectory in 2025, with 15.70 million international visitors welcomed between January and October, a 5% year-on-year increase. Hotel performances have also remained strong, with average occupancy reaching 79.4%, compared to 77% over the same period last year, and the average daily rate rising 6% to Dhs 531. Revenue per available room stood at Dhs 421, a 9% YoY growth, underscoring robust demand across all market segments. At the end of October, there were 152,875 available rooms across 820 establishments.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “As Dubai marks another year of outstanding progress, our tourism success continues to be driven by collaboration, innovation and resilience. Guided by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, we are committed to creating distinctive, future-ready experiences that captivate a global audience. Our strategic market diversification, year-round campaigns, and emphasis on sustainability and accessibility have strengthened Dubai’s position as a world-leading destination, while opening new opportunities for residents, visitors and investors. Undoubtedly, this performance reflects the strength of our public-private partnerships and the collective effort of our varied communities in showcasing the breadth and diversity of Dubai’s offerings.

“The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism will continue to redefine possibilities, advancing sustainable initiatives, embracing digital transformation, and expanding our reach through unique campaigns. Our relentless focus on innovation and excellence underscores our ambition to make Dubai the best city in the world to visit, live, and work in.”

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “By maintaining a vibrant calendar of events that align with trends, interest and the expectations of our diverse audience, we are maintaining our competitive edge as a world-class destination, contributing to Dubai’s ongoing success by attracting global and regional visitors, increasing spend across a variety of sectors, and elevating the city’s international appeal. A prime example was the recent Dubai Fitness Challenge: more than just an event, it is a movement that inspires millions to embrace healthier lifestyles, reflecting Dubai’s strong community spirit and its ability to transform lives. During the 31st edition of the ongoing Dubai Shopping Festival, residents and visitors can expect an unparalleled line-up of shopping, family-oriented events, live music, and extraordinary entertainment, further highlighting Dubai’s position as a premier global destination for unforgettable experiences.”

A focal point of the event was the new Hotel Incentive Programme for investors, launched by DET in October. Designed to stimulate hotel development in future high-growth areas in the city, through the 100% reimbursement of the Dubai Municipality fee on room sales and the Tourism Dirham for a period of two years after opening, the initiative applies to new hotels, resorts, hotel apartments, and other facilities located within Dubai South, Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai Parks, and the Dubai Islands.

New and upcoming developments across the city were also highlighted including the world’s tallest hotel, Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG; Mandarin Oriental Downtown; wellbeing resort Therme Dubai; Dubai Museum of Art (DUMA); Palm Jebel Ali; Dubai Exhibition Centre; Dubai Square Mall, Ghaf Woods Mall and the Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) expansion. Addressing the growing global interest in not just visiting Dubai, but also relocating to the city, there was a focus on the city’s developing infrastructure to cater to the growing population and tourism numbers.