UAE and India Forge Stronger Tourism Alliances to Position Abu Dhabi as a Premier Global Destination and Boost Year-Round Visitor Appeal

Published on May 7, 2025

The UAE and India have strengthened their tourism ties in a strategic move to position Abu Dhabi as a premier global destination. With India being one of the largest sources of international visitors to the emirate, this enhanced collaboration seeks to capitalize on the growing demand for travel between the two nations. By focusing on tailored campaigns that showcase Abu Dhabi’s unique blend of luxury, culture, and authentic experiences, the partnership is designed to boost year-round visitor appeal, ensuring the emirate remains a top choice for travelers seeking a diverse, world-class experience.

Abu Dhabi is intensifying its tourism efforts in 2025, making a bold statement at the Arabian Travel Market (ATM). The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) took the opportunity to unveil a dynamic array of strategic alliances designed to redefine the emirate’s tourism sector and attract a global audience.

These initiatives align with the ambitious goals outlined in Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which sets a target of welcoming 39.3 million visitors by the year 2030. Aimed at expanding its international appeal, DCT Abu Dhabi has entered into significant partnerships with major travel operators, hotel chains, and digital platforms to draw visitors from key regions such as Europe, Saudi Arabia, and India.

Strengthening Partnerships with Key Markets

India
India continues to be the leading source of international tourists to Abu Dhabi. In 2024, the number of Indian visitors surged by 43%, with over 360,000 travelers making their way to the emirate. In a move to further capitalize on this growth, DCT Abu Dhabi has partnered with Holiday Tribe, a cutting-edge travel company, to attract 5,500 Indian tourists to Abu Dhabi within the next 18 months. With campaigns tailored to promote the rich heritage, luxury accommodations, and unique experiences Abu Dhabi has to offer, this partnership demonstrates India’s enduring importance to the emirate’s tourism strategy.

Europe
Europe remains a pivotal market for Abu Dhabi, and DCT Abu Dhabi is reinforcing its presence by hosting curated travel events. This October, the Loop Leisure Autumn 2025 event will take place at the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi, bringing together 130 influential travel agents, tour operators, and media figures, mainly from German-speaking countries such as Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. The event will showcase Abu Dhabi’s cultural richness, scenic beauty, and premium hospitality offerings, aiming to captivate the refined tastes of European travelers. This event follows the success of Loop Beyond Borders, which in 2024 attracted Central and Eastern European agents, bolstering the emirate’s status as a year-round luxury destination.

Saudi Arabia
Abu Dhabi’s cultural and linguistic ties with Saudi Arabia make it a natural focal point for growth. With strategic collaborations with Almosafer, Flyin, and Rehlat—three of the region’s top travel platforms—the emirate is set to ramp up tourism from the Gulf. Almosafer will leverage its broad customer base to promote Abu Dhabi, while Flyin’s digital campaign will highlight the emirate’s family-friendly and luxurious offerings. Rehlat will take a data-driven approach, offering engaging, personalized experiences in Abu Dhabi, from desert safaris to wellness retreats. Additionally, global distributor TBO will connect DCT Abu Dhabi with over 159,000 travel agents across the GCC, aiming to bring in 4,320 visitors over the next year.

The UAE and India have solidified their tourism partnership to enhance Abu Dhabi’s appeal as a premier global destination. This collaboration aims to drive year-round visitation by showcasing the emirate’s unique offerings to Indian travelers.

Abu Dhabi: A Destination for All Seasons

DCT Abu Dhabi’s efforts extend beyond attracting visitors—it is also focused on enhancing the experience for international travelers. Through collaborations with global platforms like Expedia, Abu Dhabi is being positioned as a destination for all seasons. The Sunshine Pass campaign, which promotes wellness retreats, cultural events, and outdoor activities, is designed to ensure that Abu Dhabi remains on the radar for leisure travelers year-round.

Moreover, in a groundbreaking partnership with Rotana Hotels, DCT Abu Dhabi is tackling the challenge of seasonality. This collaboration offers exclusive rates and premium experiences for Rotana Rewards members, particularly during off-peak periods, further positioning the emirate as a year-round destination. By utilizing Rotana’s strong brand recognition and loyalty program, this initiative aims to appeal to regional visitors and frequent travelers.

On the domestic front, the collaboration with Fazaa is geared towards inspiring UAE residents to rediscover Abu Dhabi. Through curated summer staycations, school holiday packages, and long-weekend getaways, the initiative is encouraging local residents to explore the emirate’s many attractions. Additionally, DMC Arabia is working with DCT Abu Dhabi to spotlight the Al Ain region, enhancing its historical and cultural appeal with personalized itineraries for visitors.

In 2025, Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector is making a powerful push to expand its global reach, with strategic alliances designed to elevate the city’s profile as a year-round destination and a must-visit hub for international tourists.