By the fourth quarter of 2025, Dubai is set to confirm its status as one of the top three travel destinations in the world, alongside Tokyo and London. According to the most recent report from travel analytics company ForwardKeys, which is part of Amadeus, there has been a six percent rise in international arrivals to the city, compared to the same period in 2024. Everything suggests that Dubai will continue to be a strong center for tourism, leisure and business travel.
The increase in international visitors comes as no surprise, given Dubai’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, hospitality, and its diverse range of entertainment offerings. Dubai continues to attract a growing share of global travelers, accounting for approximately 2.2% of all international tourist arrivals projected worldwide in the last quarter of 2025. This positions the city as a key player in the global travel landscape, with a particular appeal to those seeking both luxury and cultural experiences.
In addition to its existing popularity, Dubai’s ability to adapt to changing travel trends, including the rise of longer vacations and the demand for immersive cultural experiences, has further solidified its standing as a preferred destination.
The largest source markets for Dubai’s tourism remain India and the United Kingdom, two key regions that have consistently contributed to high travel numbers. However, China has seen a significant rebound, with 34% year-on-year growth in bookings, securing a spot among Dubai’s top ten visitor markets once again. The German market has also shown strong growth, with a 9% increase in bookings, further reflecting Dubai’s growing appeal across European and Asian markets.
The revival of Chinese tourism, in particular, is a critical development as it signals the post-pandemic recovery of the global travel industry, especially within Asia. The city’s successful diversification of source markets has ensured that it is less reliant on any single region, making it a resilient and sustainable destination in the competitive travel landscape.
The winter travel season, traditionally a peak period for Dubai, is contributing significantly to this surge. The city’s world-class infrastructure, which includes extensive luxury hotels, shopping malls, and entertainment venues, remains a major draw for travelers seeking a mix of cultural exploration, relaxation, and high-end shopping. Furthermore, the holiday season, including Christmas and New Year celebrations, has seen a remarkable increase in bookings, with many tourists opting for long stays to experience Dubai’s festive atmosphere.
Leisure travelers continue to make up the largest segment of incoming visitors. However, there has been a notable increase in long-stay bookings. Extended stays of 14 nights or more are projected to grow by 9% in 2025, signaling a shift in traveler behavior toward longer vacations. Meanwhile, short stays of 1-5 nights remain dominant, representing 46% of all reservations.
Dubai’s consistent growth reflects not only its appeal but also its successful positioning as a premium global destination. The city’s focus on sustainability, innovation, and world-class hospitality continues to resonate with travelers looking for both luxury and cultural experiences.
Dubai’s tourism infrastructure has evolved rapidly, driven by investments in airports, transportation, and tourist attractions. The Dubai Expo 2020 legacy continues to influence its tourism sector, reinforcing the city’s role as a global leader in events, conventions, and business tourism.
With its impressive growth in 2025, Dubai is set to solidify its place among the world’s most popular travel destinations. The city’s ability to attract diverse international visitors, coupled with its continuous investments in tourism infrastructure and hospitality, positions it as an enduring travel powerhouse. Dubai’s appeal lies not just in its luxury offerings but also in its ability to adapt to new travel trends, ensuring that it remains an attractive destination for both short stays and extended vacations.
With India, China and Europe continuing to generate positive growth in global arrivals, Dubai is preparing to experience another record-breaking year in 2025. Its progressive tourism environment and capacity to facilitate a blended offering of luxury, culture, and sustainability make Dubai attractive to international standards. As the winter season arrives, Dubai will now open its doors to even more visitors as it reaffirms its position as a world-leading destination.
