Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — At an event in Tashkent, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) reported record-breaking visitor numbers for 2023, highlighting a significant increase in tourist flow from Uzbekistan by 56% compared to the previous year. This indicates the development of strong tourism ties between Dubai and Uzbekistan.

International tourist arrivals to Dubai continue to grow. The year 2023 set a record for Dubai, with the emirate welcoming 17.15 million foreign tourists. This trend continues in 2024, with 9.31 million foreign tourists visiting Dubai from January to June, marking a 9% increase compared to the same period last year.

DET noted a marked increase in the number of tourists from Uzbekistan, especially during the summer of 2023, with a tourist flow increase of 81% compared to 2022 and a significant rise of 160% compared to the summer of 2019. In 2024, the number of tourists from Uzbekistan continues to grow, with an 8% increase in visitors during the first six months of the year compared to the same period in 2023. This confirms Dubai’s growing popularity and the successful development of the country’s tourism industry. Direct flights connecting Dubai with Tashkent and Samarkand further strengthen ties between the cities.

"Uzbekistan is becoming an increasingly important and promising market for Dubai, and we are pleased to see a steady growth in the number of Uzbek tourists visiting our emirate. Thanks to direct flights and the absence of visa barriers, travel for Uzbek citizens is as convenient as possible. Dubai attracts Uzbek tourists with unique cultural events, modern attractions, and a high level of service. We strive to provide every guest with unforgettable experiences, comfortable and safe vacations," said Bader Ali Habib, Head of Regional Development at Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism.

Dubai’s outstanding achievements have also received international recognition: at the beginning of 2024, the city ranked first for the third consecutive time in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards for top tourist destinations.

Dubai continues to strengthen its reputation as a global hub for leisure and entertainment by opening new attractions and hosting various events that attract tourists from all over the world. One of the latest significant events was the opening of Real Madrid World, a themed park located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, the first of its kind under the aegis of the famous football club. This was made possible by a long-term agreement signed in October last year between DET and Real Madrid, which opens new prospects for the development of both organizations and supports Dubai’s economic program goals (D33).

Dubai’s culinary potential is actively developing and is an important component of the city’s tourism strategy. The emirate has earned the status of a global gastronomic center: every year, Dubai’s restaurants are featured in prestigious rankings such as the "50 Best Restaurants of the Middle East and North Africa" and the "Michelin Guide." In July this year, the third Michelin Guide ceremony was held here.

During the summer season, more than 100 hotels in Dubai offer a special "Kids Go Free" promotion, where children under 12 can stay and eat for free at the hotels and visit certain attractions.

Additionally, this summer, from 28 June to 1 September, the city traditionally hosts one of the largest annual events of the year — the Dubai Summer Surprises shopping festival, featuring incredible discounts, special offers, and cultural events. The shopping festival will be repeated in the winter season and will take place from 13 December to 19 January.

As part of the UAE Year of Sustainability, which takes place in 2024, Dubai continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainable development by supporting global and national goals. The tourism and hospitality sector plays a key role in this process, implementing programs and projects that reflect the city’s environmental strategy. One such project is Dubai Can with the ‘Refill for Life’ campaign, which has reduced the use of 500 ml plastic bottles by 18 million over two years. The second project under the Dubai Can program, Dubai Reef, is the world’s largest marine reef creation project and part of Dubai’s efforts to increase fish stocks and enhance marine biodiversity in the region.