What percentage of Dubai's international visitors came from Africa in 2025?

In 2025, approximately 5% of Dubai's total international overnight visitors originated from African countries, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

Which African countries are Dubai specifically targeting for tourism growth?

Dubai is specifically targeting South Africa as an established key market, and is also placing particular emphasis on growing markets such as Kenya and Nigeria within sub-Saharan Africa.

Who commented on Dubai's tourism strategy towards Africa?

Khalaf Alaleeli, Assistant Manager for International Operations at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, commented on the strong potential of African markets for Dubai's tourism sector.

What factors make South Africa a vital source market for Dubai tourism?

South Africa is considered a vital source market due to established commercial and cultural ties, a significant South African community in Dubai, and extensive air connectivity between the regions.

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Tourism·2 September 2026

Dubai Targets African Travellers for Tourism Growth

Dubai is focusing on African markets, particularly South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria, to expand its international tourism numbers following a 5% contribution from the continent in 2025.

Dubai's tourism authorities are strategically targeting African countries to drive the next phase of the emirate's tourism growth. Data from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism indicates that African travellers accounted for approximately 5% of Dubai's total international overnight visitors in 2025.

South Africa is identified as a crucial existing source market due to established commercial, cultural, and community ties, alongside extensive air connectivity. Looking forward, Dubai plans to expand its focus to sub-Saharan African markets, with a particular emphasis on growth from countries such as Kenya and Nigeria. Khalaf Alaleeli, Assistant Manager for International Operations at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, highlighted the strong potential seen across these markets, citing Dubai's accessibility, diverse experiences, and robust air links as key attractions.

Frequently asked

Questions, answered

What percentage of Dubai's international visitors came from Africa in 2025?: In 2025, approximately 5% of Dubai's total international overnight visitors originated from African countries, according to the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.
Which African countries are Dubai specifically targeting for tourism growth?: Dubai is specifically targeting South Africa as an established key market, and is also placing particular emphasis on growing markets such as Kenya and Nigeria within sub-Saharan Africa.
Who commented on Dubai's tourism strategy towards Africa?: Khalaf Alaleeli, Assistant Manager for International Operations at the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, commented on the strong potential of African markets for Dubai's tourism sector.
What factors make South Africa a vital source market for Dubai tourism?: South Africa is considered a vital source market due to established commercial and cultural ties, a significant South African community in Dubai, and extensive air connectivity between the regions.

Reported by

Google News — Dubai Tourism & Hotels

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This brief was summarised and rewritten by Gaia Living from public reporting. Figures and details reflect the original sources.

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