Dubai has seen a significant increase in the number of Chinese tourists in the first four months of 2024, welcoming around 290,000 visitors from China. This is a 101 percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to head of marine tourism at Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism. This growth highlights Dubai’s popularity as a favorite destination for Chinese tourists.
The UAE started granting visas on arrival to Chinese visitors in 2016. Since then, the number of Chinese tourists has grown steadily. In 2017, over 764,000 Chinese tourists visited the UAE, marking a 41 percent year-on-year increase. In 2019, Dubai welcomed 16.7 million international tourists, and the number rose to 17.1 million in 2023.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, China was the 5th-largest source of tourists for Dubai. After China reopened its borders, Dubai continued its visa exemption policy and other measures to attract more Chinese tourists.
In June of this year, a promotional campaign was held in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, and Guangzhou to boost tourism to Dubai. This campaign attracted 22 travel industry suppliers from Dubai, including airlines, hotels, attractions, shopping centers, and destination management companies.
Dubai’s Department of Tourism has launched the “China Ready” strategy to improve measures that meet the needs of Chinese tourists. With direct flights now available from 14 Chinese cities and the widespread acceptance of Alipay and WeChat in Dubai, the city is well-prepared to accommodate Chinese visitors smoothly.
To further engage with Chinese consumers, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism is intensifying marketing campaigns in the market, deepening cooperation with social platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin, and partnering with audio platforms like Xiaoyuzhou and Ximalaya. These efforts aim to attract more Chinese tourists to explore popular attractions in Dubai, such as the Burj Al Arab, the Art Museum in Dubai Mall, the Chinese Quarter in Dubai Mall, and Real Madrid World.
Thanks to these ongoing efforts and innovative measures, Dubai is on track to set new records in welcoming Chinese tourists, strengthening its position as one of the world’s top tourist destinations.
