Al Ain Region has recorded strong growth in tourism during the first half of 2025, with hotel guests rising by nearly 12% and key cultural attractions seeing visitor numbers increase by up to 49% compared to the same period in 2024.
Rising hotel numbers
From January to June, Al Ain welcomed 228,000 hotel guests, generating a 5.8% increase in revenue. Popular sites including Al Ain Oasis, Qasr Al Muwaiji, and Al Qattara Arts Centre reported significant visitor growth, with increases of 40%, 49%, and 42% respectively.
Culture, wellness and adventure
The growth reflects the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi’s (DCT Abu Dhabi) strategy to promote Al Ain as a “living oasis” that combines culture, wellness, and adventure. Tourism Strategy 2030, launched in April 2024 under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, aims to increase the emirate’s visitors from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030.
DCT Abu Dhabi has focused on creating immersive cultural experiences, wellness opportunities, and adventure activities to appeal to both domestic and international travellers.
Heritage and landmarks
The region’s cultural assets, including Qasr Al Muwaiji, Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain Museum, and Al Qattara Arts Centre, are central to the strategy. The six oases of Al Ain, part of the UAE’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, continue to attract both local and international visitors.
Events and festivals
Al Ain’s calendar of festivals, such as the Traditional Handicrafts Festival, Al Ain Book Festival, MOTN Festival, and DAZ Festival, contributes to the city’s cultural vibrancy, offering visitors and families opportunities to engage with Emirati traditions and arts.
Natural landscapes and MICE
DCT Abu Dhabi also highlights Al Ain’s natural attractions, including Jebel Hafit, the UAE’s second-highest peak, and green spaces across the region. The destination is being developed as a venue for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE), supporting a growing business tourism segment.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Al Ain Region is the historic heart of our emirate, the narrator of our rich history and heritage. As the embodiment of Emirati hospitality, this living oasis is a vibrant cultural hub and a place of discovery and connection.
“We remain committed to unlocking Al Ain Region’s untapped potential for residents and local communities, while also showcasing its unique spirit to audiences around the world. As a bridge between our past and our future aspirations, Al Ain Region continues to be a cultural cornerstone where experiences are enriched, local youth and entrepreneurs are empowered, and inspiration is sparked in every visitor.”
The GCC tourism ministers recently named Al Ain Region the Gulf Capital of Tourism 2025, recognising its role in showcasing Emirati hospitality and its diverse offerings in culture, wellness, and adventure. With a population exceeding 660,000, Al Ain continues to develop as a key destination in the UAE, balancing heritage, natural beauty, and modern tourism infrastructure.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
