UAE Explores Stronger Tourism Ties with Spain and Croatia to Advance Sustainable Sector Growth
As part of a European tour to strengthen international tourism collaboration, H.E. Abdulla Bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy, met with H.E. Tonči Glavina, Croatia’s Minister of Tourism and Sports, and H.E. Rosario Sánchez Grau, Spanish Secretary of State for Tourism. The meetings aimed to enhance bilateral cooperation in sustainable tourism development and expand mutual tourism flows between the UAE and key European markets.
The discussions underscored the UAE’s commitment to expanding cooperation across various tourism sub-sectors, including leisure, investment, and tourism technology. H.E. Bin Touq emphasized the UAE’s progress in developing world-class tourism infrastructure and leading destinations, in line with international best practices, to position the country as a premier global destination.
Emphasis on the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031
During the meetings, H.E. Bin Touq highlighted the strategic importance of the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to increase the sector’s contribution to the national GDP to AED 450 billion, attract AED 100 billion in tourism investments, and welcome 40 million visitors annually by 2031. The strategy forms a cornerstone of the UAE’s long-term vision to drive sustainable growth and strengthen the country’s global tourism competitiveness.
Tourism Performance and Sector Growth
The UAE’s tourism sector demonstrated continued growth in 2024. Hotel revenues reached AED 45 billion, marking a 3% year-on-year increase. The country recorded a hotel occupancy rate of 78%, among the highest globally, and added 16 new hotels, bringing the total to 1,251 by year-end.
UAE–Spain Tourism Exchange
In discussions with Spanish officials, both sides reviewed the latest trends in global tourism and discussed enhancing cooperation in tourism policy, innovation, and sustainable practices. The number of Spanish tourists visiting the UAE reached 150,231 in 2024, reflecting a 14% increase from the previous year. Air connectivity remains strong, with approximately 48 weekly flights operated by UAE and Spanish carriers.
Boosting UAE–Croatia Tourism Links
In Croatia, H.E. Bin Touq and H.E. Glavina explored avenues for collaboration between tourism companies in both countries. The dialogue focused on creating joint tourism programs and expanding leisure offerings to stimulate reciprocal tourism flows. There are currently over 42 monthly flights between the UAE and Croatia, reinforcing strong connectivity and opportunities for mutual growth.
H.E. Bin Touq reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to supporting UN Tourism initiatives and building lasting partnerships with member states to advance sustainable global tourism.
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