Share
Key Takeaways
- Countries must balance tourism’s economic benefits with reducing its negative impacts.
- Sustainable tourism practices are critical for the long-term success of the sector.
- Prioritizing responsible tourism will help preserve hosting countries’ unique heritage.
Global tourism contributes over 9% to the world’s GDP and is key to regional economic growth. As one of the major tourism destinations in the Middle East, the UAE benefits considerably from this sector’s expansion. The UAE’s travel and tourism sector contributed 11.7% to the country’s GDP in 2023 and is projected to amount to 12% for this year’s figures.
While the industry brings vast economic benefits, there are growing concerns about the impact of over-tourism on the environment, infrastructure, and local communities. The UAE now faces a key challenge: gaining the economic benefits of tourism while dealing with the negative impact of overtourism.
Tourism or Overtourism: The Balance Between Benefits and Risks
The UAE’s tourism sector contributes significantly to its GDP, job creation, and infrastructure development. Major events like Expo 2020 Dubai and world-class attractions like Burj Khalifa and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque have made the country a top global destination.
Statista predicts that international tourist arrivals in the UAE will grow by 17.3 million between 2024 and 2029. This growth has led to increased hotel investments, with the expected addition of 27,000 new rooms by 2030.
However, tourism’s positive economic impact often obscures its negative one. Unchecked tourism growth can damage the environment, strain infrastructure, and displace locals, threatening the very attractions that draw visitors.
To address these concerns, the UAE is implementing sustainable tourism practices and eco-friendly infrastructure, such as renewable energy, water conservation, and waste management systems. It has also launched campaigns like “World’s Coolest Winter” to promote domestic tourism. This event generated Dh2 billion in revenue during its 2022-2023 edition while encouraging residents to explore local destinations.
Embracing Sustainable Tourism As a Key to Long-Term Success
The real benefit lies in balancing tourism’s benefits while minimizing its negative impacts on future generations. As the UAE continues developing its tourism industry, it prioritizes responsible tourism practices and practical visitor management.
The path forward lies in building a tourism model that integrates sustainability practices. This will ensure that the industry’s benefits mirror the country’s progress without diminishing the precious resources and cultural treasures that make the UAE a unique destination.
