Dubai Poised For Unmatched Growth And Innovation In 2026 As Stakeholders Unveil Bold Plans And Key Developments At Annual City Briefing

Published on December 13, 2025

Dubai is set for unparalleled growth and innovation in 2026, as stakeholders unveil ambitious plans and key developments at the annual City Briefing. The event highlighted the city’s commitment to expanding its global tourism, hospitality, and infrastructure sectors. With strategic initiatives focused on sustainability, digital transformation, and new attractions, Dubai is positioning itself to further solidify its standing as a premier global destination for both business and leisure. These bold plans reflect the city’s vision for a dynamic and prosperous future.

Dubai hosted the bi-annual City Briefing organized by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) on December 9, 2025, at Global Village. The event gathered over 1,200 participants from a range of sectors, including hospitality, aviation, retail, and F&B, alongside government representatives and media professionals. The focus of the briefing was to further solidify Dubai’s position as a leading global destination, while also offering stakeholders an opportunity to reflect on the city’s achievements and outline strategies for continued growth and development.

As part of DET’s commitment to fostering collaboration, the briefing offered presentations, panel discussions, and a fireside chat. The central theme revolved around the significant role of public-private partnerships in advancing Dubai’s tourism sector, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda’s goals. One of the highlights of the event was a comprehensive presentation that showcased Dubai’s remarkable performance in the global tourism market in 2025.

By October 2025, Dubai had already attracted 15.70 million visitors, a 5% increase compared to the previous year. The city’s hotel sector also exhibited strong performance, with average occupancy rates rising to 79.4% and revenue per available room climbing by 9% to AED 421. The average daily rate saw a 6% increase, reaching AED 531. This growth reflects continued demand across various market segments and highlights Dubai’s appeal as a business and leisure hub.

Dubai’s tourism resilience, according to a key speaker, is largely due to its strategic market diversification, sustainability initiatives, and accessibility campaigns. These efforts have ensured the city’s robust position in the global tourism market. Looking ahead to 2026, the focus remains on sustainable practices, digital transformation, and the expansion of innovative campaigns that will continue to elevate Dubai’s status as a top global destination for travel, work, and living.

The City Briefing also touched upon the critical importance of maintaining a dynamic calendar of events. For example, Dubai’s ongoing 31st Dubai Shopping Festival and the successful Dubai Fitness Challenge were highlighted as key components of the city’s thriving event scene. These events, alongside the planned expansion of the city’s infrastructure, including the construction of the Dubai Metro Blue Line and an additional 226 km of roads, are expected to further enhance Dubai’s tourism and business prospects.

The event also recognized key milestones for several of Dubai’s institutions, such as the 20th anniversary of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the 40th anniversary of The Emirates Group. These achievements reflect Dubai’s ongoing commitment to excellence and its status as an influential global financial and tourism hub. Additionally, the ongoing success of landmarks like the Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai was celebrated.

The briefing also spotlighted the city’s sustained efforts in sustainability, particularly through initiatives like the Dubai Sustainable Tourism (DST) Stamp. This program, part of Dubai’s broader sustainability agenda, aligns with both the D33 Agenda and the UAE’s Net Zero 2050 target. The event showcased how hotels that meet rigorous sustainability standards are recognized, contributing to the city’s eco-friendly tourism narrative.

Another significant focus was Dubai’s aviation sector, with discussions involving key leaders from Emirates, Dubai Airports, and the DET. A major point of discussion was the future of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which is set to play a central role in Dubai’s aviation growth. The expansion of this airport, alongside Dubai International (DXB), will ensure the city maintains its position as a key global trade and tourism hub. Emirates, too, outlined its plans for expanding its fleet and network, further enhancing connectivity with emerging markets.

As Dubai gears up for 2026, the city is preparing for a packed calendar of events, including the 30th edition of the Dubai World Cup. The continued success of Dubai’s event-driven tourism model, alongside landmark attractions and sustainable development projects, positions the city as a leading global destination. As Dubai moves through 2026 and beyond, the focus remains on innovation, sustainability, and collaboration to drive further growth in both the tourism and business sectors.

With continued trust and collaboration among its partners, Dubai is set to remain a key player in the global tourism market, enhancing its appeal and further enriching the experience it offers to both residents and visitors alike.