Abu Dhabi Plans to Attract Over 24 Million Visitors in 2023

The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced a new target to attract over 24 million visitors to the emirate by the end of 2023. 

The new plan follows a surge in Abu Dhabi's tourist sector in 2022, with 18 million visitors and hotel occupancy rates reaching 70%.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi, said their goal "builds on healthy growth over the past year...enabled through powerful collaborations and delivery of memorable travel and business experiences across the whole year, supported by an integrated ecosystem of best-in-class services, infrastructure, and impactful marketing. In Abu Dhabi, we are demonstrating the power of partnerships across the tourism sector and the fact that collectively we can thrive".

This goal will be achieved through creating and delivering unique and diverse range of events for visitors, Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, said.

The improved performance in 2022 is being attributed to Abu Dhabi's increased range of year-round entertainment and sporting events, as well as trade events and roadshows.

Last year, Abu Dhabi Calendar successfully hosted a diverse range of over 100 events which left audiences captivated and entertained.

The emirate played host to key sporting events such as Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

It also hosted homegrown family festivals such as the Mother of the Nation (MOTN) and LIWA festivals, which added to the cultural richness of the city.

The highest number of international tourists during the last year came from India, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and the US.