The report highlights key growth drivers, including the development of modern infrastructure (such as the Dubai World Trade Centre and Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre), the rising global economic influence of the UAE, and economic diversification. Corporate meetings and medium-sized events (100–500 participants) lead in segmentation. The main constraints noted are seasonality and high operating costs. Geopolitical risks are not addressed in the report.
Just a few days later, on 5–6 April, several publications appeared that reflect a more complex picture of the current period.
Current Situation in Tourism and Hospitality
As of early April 2026, the tourism and hospitality sector in the UAE is experiencing notable pressure. Hotel occupancy in Dubai has declined to 15-20%, with some properties reporting rates below 10%. Many restaurants have seen revenue drops exceeding 50%, while venues primarily dependent on tourists have recorded declines of 70-80%. Some operators have temporarily reduced operations, placed staff on unpaid leave, or adjusted salaries to preserve jobs.
Air connectivity has also faced disruptions, with thousands of flights cancelled, affecting the arrival of international visitors. Previously, Dubai had demonstrated strong performance – nearly 19.6 million international visitors in a year – but current conditions have led to a significant number of booking cancellations.
Government Support Measures
The UAE authorities are responding promptly to the situation. On 6 April, Economy Minister Abdulla bin Touq stated that the tourism sector is under considerable pressure and that the government is preparing a support package. In Dubai, a package worth AED 1 billion (USD 272 million) has been in effect since 1 April. It includes a three-month deferral of certain government fees, such as hotel sales fees and the Tourism Dirham fee, to support the hospitality sector. Additional measures are planned for small businesses in areas such as Dubai South.
The Minister emphasised that the country possesses strong infrastructure and is capable of a swift recovery once the situation normalises.
Continuation of Cultural and Event Programmes
Despite the challenges, cultural and tourism initiatives continue in the UAE in April 2026.
- In Abu Dhabi, a rich programme is underway: the exhibition “Picasso, the Figure” at Louvre Abu Dhabi (until 31 May), “Harat Al Hosn” at Al Ain Museum, “Golden Ink: A Journey through Arab and Islamic Manuscripts” at Qasr Al Watan (until 7 April), the group show “And After” at the Cultural Foundation (until 12 April), and a performance by the UAE National Orchestra titled “From Screen to Stage” on 16 April. Biweekly photography meet-ups are also taking place at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
- In Dubai, the first Art Run is scheduled for 18 April at Expo City Dubai. This wellness-oriented event combines movement with art installations and interactive elements as part of the wider Dubai Art Season.
- Starting 1 April, Viya (part of wasl Hospitality & Leisure) launched the Golfcation Pass – a package priced at AED 1,999 (approx. USD 544) that includes an 18-hole round of golf at leading courses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, along with a one-night stay at luxury hotels (including breakfast for two adults and two children). The offer targets couples and families.
Long-Term Tourism Development Strategy
Alongside immediate support measures, work continues on long-term initiatives. The National Tourism Strategy 2031 aims to attract 40 million hotel guests annually and increase the sector’s contribution to GDP to AED 450 billion. Emphasis is placed on blending heritage, innovation, and sustainability: investments in cultural identity (including a new national plan for UNESCO listings 2026–2036), new attractions such as Therme Dubai, a Disney theme park on Yas Island, and eco-tourism projects.
In recent years the sector has shown solid growth: in 2024 it contributed AED 257.3 billion (13% of GDP), and the sixth edition of the “World’s Coolest Winter” campaign (December 2025–February 2026) generated AED 12.5 billion in hotel revenue and welcomed over 5 million guests.
Conclusion
April 2026 clearly illustrates how sensitive the UAE’s tourism and MICE sectors are to external factors. Long-term forecasts, such as the Coherent Market Insights report, reflect the strategic potential of the market, which is based on developed infrastructure and consistent government policy. At the same time, current conditions require prompt support measures and flexibility from businesses.
The industry continues to maintain activity in the cultural and events sphere while working to restore guest confidence and strengthen resilience. Future dynamics will depend on developments in the wider regional situation and the effectiveness of the measures being implemented.
Sources:
https://asiatoday.id/read/war-fallout-dims-dubais-glitter
https://www.traveldailymedia.com/viya-launches-golfcation-experience-in-uae/
https://intlbm.com/2026/04/06/uae-tourism-ecosystem-a-blend-of-heritage-innovation-sustainability/
https://www.miramagazine.ae/recent-news/dubais-first-art-run-heads-to-expo-city-this-april
