Dubai continues to strengthen its position as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for travelers. In the first half of 2025 alone, the city welcomed nearly 9.9 million international visitors, moving closer to its goal of ranking among the top three global tourism hubs. This steady growth reflects Dubai’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, attractions, and visitor experiences. Dubai International Airport also set a record in 2024, handling more than 92 million passengers and preparing for even greater capacity in the coming years with expansions at Al Maktoum International Airport.
Alongside these impressive numbers, the city is introducing new projects to enhance both its modern appeal and cultural charm. A 1.8-kilometer heritage trail has recently been added in Deira’s traditional markets to give tourists a richer glimpse into Dubai’s history while supporting hundreds of local shops. Popular attractions such as the city’s signature fountain and water show are also reopening after upgrades, offering fresh experiences for repeat visitors. Major infrastructure initiatives, including a century-long deep-tunnel drainage system, are underway to make Dubai more resilient and comfortable for residents and tourists alike.
The government is also encouraging tourism-related businesses by issuing thousands of new licenses in hospitality, aviation, and leisure, creating more choices for travelers. Seasonal events, global exhibitions, and high-profile sports matches like the upcoming Asia Cup Final are further boosting visitor numbers and international attention. All these efforts show how Dubai is not only maintaining its global reputation but actively shaping a future where tourism plays an even bigger role in the city’s vibrant economy and culture.
Eco-friendly desert safaris with electric dune buggies launched
Dubai has rolled out a new fleet of electric dune buggies for desert safaris. These silent, low-emission vehicles offer a greener way to explore the red dunes without compromising on thrill. They come with private night safari options, luxury glamping, and sunset-to-stargazing itineraries.
Dubai’s desert tourism is undergoing a major shift toward sustainability with the introduction of electric dune buggies. Tour operators have begun offering these new vehicles as an alternative to traditional petrol-powered rides, giving visitors the same adrenaline rush of driving over red sand dunes but with zero emissions and minimal noise. The change is not only better for the fragile desert ecosystem but also makes the experience feel more immersive — guests can hear the wind and enjoy the stillness of the desert without the hum of engines. Some operators have paired these vehicles with private night safari itineraries, where guests set out at sunset, ride through glowing dunes, stop for dinner under the stars, and even spend the night in luxury glamping tents equipped with modern comforts. This new approach to desert adventures reflects Dubai’s wider commitment to offering world-class tourism experiences that also respect the environment.
Personalized and Flexible Safari Packages
Another strong trend emerging in 2025 is the move toward customized safari packages. In the past, most desert tours followed a fixed program that combined dune bashing, camel rides, live shows, and dinner. Today, more companies are letting travelers choose exactly what they want to include in their itinerary. Families with children can opt for a calmer evening safari without the intense off-roading, while adventure seekers can extend their trip with quad biking, sandboarding, or long desert drives. Couples may book a romantic desert dinner with a private butler, while older guests might prefer a soft-track wildlife safari and sunset photo stops. Even the timing has become more flexible, with options for early-morning safaris, mid-day escapes, or overnight stays under the stars. This personalized approach ensures each guest enjoys a desert experience that matches their pace and interests rather than a one-size-fits-all tour.