Tourism
Abu Dhabi is rapidly emerging as a global hotspot for travel enthusiasts, cultural aficionados, and food connoisseurs alike.
As an investor, the time is ripe to explore the wealth of opportunities that Abu Dhabi's dynamic tourism landscape has to offer.
A destination of choice, Abu Dhabi offers unparalleled experiences for visitors with its natural beauty, unique heritage and tradition, alongside world-class arts and entertainment events.
The tourism and hospitality sector attracts international giants , while boosting homegrown brands like Rotana, Emaar, and Jumeirah hospitality group. Abu Dhabi has also seen the establishment of unique hotel offerings like the world’s first Warner Bros Hotel on Yas Island.
Additionaly the Emirate is an outstanding venue for conferences, regional and international exhibitions, trade shows and major sports events. Every year the city hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, Abu Dhabi Food Festival, Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week and many more.
What makes tourism tick in Abu Dhabi
The growing leisure tourism and hospitality industry in Abu Dhabi has experienced rapid and sustained growth with
- Over 11 million tourists annually
- Supports more than 300,000 jobs
- Over 168 hotel establishments
- 200+ unique islands with 2,500 hectares of mangrove forest
Why invest in tourism?
OPTION 1:
Investing in tourism: the industry advantage
OPTION 2:
A booming industry. An investment destination.
Tourism is a significant contributor to Abu Dhabi's GDP, with its influence extending across various sectors such as hospitality and transportation, rendering tourism a highly favourable investment opportunity.
Economic impact: Investing in this sector catalyses economic activity, creates jobs, drives growth, and is backed by government initiatives to further augment financial benefits for investors and businesses.
Growth potential: Abu Dhabi's tourism sector is evolving into a diverse, multifaceted industry, backed by endeavours like the ADIO’s innovation programme to open high-growth tourism opportunities.
Favorable Investment Environment: With developments like the introduction of a new cap of AED 1000 for annual tourism business licenses and the revision of hotel fees, reflect Abu Dhabi’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for investment in this sector.
Cultural Initiatives: Investments in Abu Dhabi's tourism sector supports significant cultural initiatives that further attract tourists and generate business growth. This includes the Department of Culture and Tourism’s efforts to enrich Abu Dhabi’s arts and culture scene, plus, the first-ever Michelin Guide Abu Dhabi.
Transformational growth
The growth potential in Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector is constantly increasing with key infrastructural developments, strategic partnerships, and new attractions.
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The Thrilling Theme Parks: Abu Dhabi is home to several world-renowned theme parks like Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros Abu Dhabi, and the recently opened SeaWorld. .
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The Airport Traffic: Abu Dhabi International Airport has witnessed a significant 67% increase in passengers during the first half of 2023.
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The Cultural Attractions: The Emirate is rich in cultural attractions, from the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the Louvre Abu Dhabi offering visitors a blend of the modern and traditional.
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The Culinary Experiences: The introduction of the AED 360 million Abu Dhabi Culinary Investment Fund will attract world-class culinary brands to the Emirate, offering unique dining experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
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The Unique Partnerships: The emirate is expanding its horizons with unique partnerships like ADIO's innovation programme with Wolfis. This initiative aims to open high-growth tourism opportunities, catering to the dynamic demands of global tourists.