Abu Dhabi‘s culture and tourism department has revealed plans to invest more than $10 billion in infrastructure as part of its new tourism strategy for 2030.
Per a press release, the plan signals a new era of expansion and development in Abu Dhabi’s travel and tourism sector.
Abu Dhabi will introduce new theme parks, cultural sites, retail experiences and hotels. The emirate will increase hotel room availability, enhance infrastructure, and streamline visa processes.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, told the National: “[When it comes to] infrastructure, in terms of museums, theme parks and hospitality – [with] the private sector playing a significant role – we are hovering at over $10 billion of investment from now to 2030.”
The tourism strategy aims to boost annual visitor numbers from nearly 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030. It also means to raise the sector’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP from around AED 49 billion to AED 90 billion annually.
Additionally, it will generate an estimated 178,000 new jobs by 2030. It also aims to nearly double international overnight visitors from 3.8 million to 7.2 million, and expand hotel room availability from 34,000 to 52,000.
New theme parks and museums
Al Mubarak said the plan represents “a vital lever in our ongoing evolution”. He added: “Delivered alongside our key partners, the strategy underscores our steadfast commitment to fostering sustainable growth and strategic development in the travel and tourism sector.
“Through carefully crafted initiatives that will unlock economic opportunities, amplify our distinctive culture and enhance the emirate’s value proposition, we are laying the foundation for a vibrant and prosperous future that transcends generations.”
New attractions coming to Abu Dhabi include a Harry Potter-themed land for Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, as well as the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Zayed National Museum, and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.
Image courtesy of Miral
