UAE’s Strategic Tourism Growth Takes Center Stage at Fitur 2026 with Abu Dhabi’s Debut and Dubai’s Continued Dominance in Global Markets

Published on December 20, 2025

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is making waves in the global tourism scene with its strategic participation at the 2026 Fitur Exhibition in Madrid. For the first time, Abu Dhabi will participate in this prestigious international event, alongside the ever-popular Dubai, marking a pivotal moment for Arabian Gulf tourism. With its thriving tourism ecosystem, strong aviation connectivity, and growing appeal as a luxury and cultural destination, the UAE is positioning itself as a powerhouse within the international tourism market. Fitur 2026, held at IFEMA Madrid from January 21 to 25, will serve as the perfect platform for the UAE to solidify its position as a leading force in the global tourism industry.

A New Era for UAE’s Tourism at Fitur 2026

Fitur 2026 promises to be an exciting year for the UAE as the country takes center stage at one of the world’s largest tourism trade fairs. With both Abu Dhabi and Dubai highlighting their unique tourism offerings, this exhibition is a significant step in the UAE’s efforts to attract more international visitors, especially from the Gulf region. The UAE’s tourism sector has witnessed impressive growth, with Emirati visitors to Spain increasing by 17% in 2024, marking a significant rise in the number of high-spending travelers.

The UAE’s tourism participation at Fitur reflects the country’s determination to not only build on its existing tourism appeal but also enhance its global reputation as a premium destination for luxury, shopping, culture, and heritage. Fitur 2026 is set to showcase the UAE’s luxury tourism offerings, high-end travel experiences, and cultural attractions that make it one of the most sought-after destinations in the Arabian Gulf.

UAE’s Growing Role in Global Tourism

In 2024, Spain saw a record number of Emirati visitors, welcoming over 200,000 people from the UAE. This influx represents a 17% increase over the previous year, with tourist spending hitting an average of €3,000 per visitor. These figures underline the UAE’s growing importance as a tourism powerhouse in the Middle East and beyond. Air connectivity between the UAE and Spain has seen a massive 27.4% increase, signaling an upward trend in passenger traffic and a booming tourism relationship between the two nations.

The UAE is expected to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years, thanks to its exceptional flight routes, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and a burgeoning interest in its rich cultural heritage. In 2025, an estimated 140,000 passengers are projected to travel between Spain and the UAE annually, highlighting the growing cultural, shopping, and luxury appeal of the UAE as a prime travel destination.

A Thriving UAE Tourism Ecosystem: Diverse and Rich Offerings

At Fitur 2026, the UAE will bring a delegation of around 40 companies, including leading hospitality, entertainment, and travel agencies. This robust delegation will showcase the diversity of the UAE’s tourism offerings, from luxury hotels to cultural attractions and cutting-edge travel technology.

Key players in the UAE’s tourism sector participating in Fitur 2026 include:

• Etihad Airways: One of the leading airlines connecting the UAE to Spain and beyond.
• ODYSSEY DMC, Travco, and Arabian Adventures: These tour operators are key to promoting customized travel experiences for international visitors.
• Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, voco Dubai, JA Resorts & Hotels, and Rixos Hotels: Prominent hotel chains showcasing UAE’s luxurious hospitality offerings.
• Dubai Holding Entertainment, Emaar Entertainment, and the Museum of the Future: Cultural institutions offering world-class attractions.

These companies are a reflection of the UAE’s diverse and dynamic tourism ecosystem, catering to every type of traveler, from luxury seekers to adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and family vacationers.

Why the UAE is a Strategic Market for Spain and Global Tourism

The UAE has long been a strategic market for Spain, with the UAE’s high-spending tourist profile making it a key player in Spain’s efforts to attract international visitors. Emirati tourists are some of the highest spenders globally, contributing significantly to Spain’s tourism revenues. In 2024, the UAE’s tourist expenditure was estimated to reach US$7 billion, reinforcing its role as a tourism superpower.

As an economic and cultural powerhouse in the Arabian Gulf, the UAE’s growing appeal as a destination for luxury shopping, fine dining, and unique cultural experiences has made it a natural partner for Spain’s tourism industry. Spain’s increasing popularity as a cultural, shopping, and luxury destination is fueling an ongoing rise in UAE-bound travelers, making the two countries’ tourism sectors interlinked.

The UAE’s Strategic Focus on Luxury Tourism

The UAE’s tourism success is driven by its focus on luxury travel experiences. With world-class resorts, spas, high-end shopping malls, and cultural attractions, the country offers a wide range of luxury tourism products that are highly attractive to international travelers, especially those from the Gulf region.

Luxury Hotels and Resorts

UAE’s hotel industry is a shining example of its luxury tourism offerings. From the Burj Al Arab to the Atlantis Palm, the country boasts some of the most opulent and iconic hotels in the world. Fitur 2026 will showcase some of the UAE’s leading luxury hotels and resorts, providing international visitors with the perfect base to explore the country’s tourist attractions.

Cultural and Heritage Tourism

In addition to its modern luxury offerings, the UAE is also increasingly recognized for its cultural tourism. From the Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, home to world-class museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi, to the Museum of the Future in Dubai, the country is blending modernity with tradition to create a unique tourism experience.

The Power of Air Connectivity

One of the most important aspects of the UAE’s growing tourism influence is its exceptional air connectivity. The presence of Etihad Airways and Emirates Airlines, two of the world’s largest and most reputable airlines, has made it easier for travelers to reach the UAE from Spain and other parts of the world. These airlines provide seamless travel experiences, with increasing flight routes between the UAE and Madrid, ensuring that tourists have easy access to the country’s wide range of attractions.

What to Expect from the UAE at Fitur 2026

Fitur 2026 will provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the UAE’s tourism landscape in greater detail. Highlights of the UAE’s presence include:

• Cultural showcases: Visitors will be able to experience the UAE’s rich cultural offerings, from traditional Arabic arts to modern architecture and world-renowned museums.
• Luxury travel options: UAE tourism will emphasize its luxury hotels, private island resorts, and five-star experiences.
• Innovative travel tech: The country will showcase its cutting-edge travel technology, making it easier for visitors to book and explore the country.

The Economic Impact of UAE Tourism on Global Markets

The UAE’s growing tourism market has a substantial impact on global travel and tourism. The country’s high-spending visitors, who travel to destinations like Spain, have contributed significantly to the economy. As international tourism continues to rebound post-pandemic, the UAE’s strong participation at Fitur 2026 will only enhance its reputation as a top destination for both luxury and cultural travel.

Conclusion: The UAE’s Bright Future in Global Tourism

With its exceptional growth in tourism, the UAE is well-positioned to become a dominant player on the world stage. As Abu Dhabi and Dubai continue to grow their influence at events like Fitur, their tourism sectors will only become more integrated into global travel trends. The UAE’s commitment to developing luxury tourism, cultural attractions, and state-of-the-art travel technology ensures that it will continue to attract visitors from around the world.

Fitur 2026 is set to be a significant milestone in the UAE’s tourism journey, showcasing the country’s immense growth potential and its role as a leader in the Arabian Gulf’s tourism industry.