UAE Ministry of Economy Highlights Tourism's Role in Economic Development and Future Growth

The Ministry of Economy, Government of the UAE, has emphasized the critical role of tourism in the country's long-term development plans and future economic growth. In a recent meeting with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), UAE ministers discussed ways to revive tourism activities and support the country's position as a leading, diversified, and sustainable tourism destination. The meeting highlighted the importance of coordination and cooperation to implement initiatives included in the 33-initiative plan to support key economic sectors.

Key Takeaways:

The UAE tourism industry performed well in 2019, ranking first in the Middle East region and 33rd globally in terms of global competitiveness, according to the World Economic Forum's 2019 report.
Tourism accounted for 11.9% of the UAE's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2019 and created 745,000 job opportunities, as per the same report.
The sector is expected to continue growing despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the government actively collaborating with partners to develop a stronger future road map for the industry.
The Ministry of Economy and SCTDA emphasized the importance of domestic tourism in stimulating activities within the hospitality and entertainment industries and enhancing the UAE's ability to attract regional and global tourists.
Local tourism attracted substantial investments to the country, with a total investment value of more than AED 27.5 billion by the end of 2019.
The 33-initiative plan aims to support the economic sectors, including tourism, and promote the country's economic diversification, sustainable development, and foreign trade policies.

Statistics:

The UAE's tourism industry ranked 33rd globally in terms of global competitiveness in 2019.
Tourism accounted for 11.9% of the UAE's GDP in 2019.
The sector created 745,000 job opportunities in 2019.
The total investment value in tourism exceeded AED 27.5 billion by the end of 2019.
The number of hotel establishments in the UAE grew to 1,136 by the end of 2019, with more than 183,000 rooms and a 6% increase in guests compared to 2018.

Sources:

Ministry of Economy, Government of UAE
World Economic Forum (2019 report)
Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA)