Abu Dhabi Partners with Trip.com to Boost Global Tourism
Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates’ capital city, draws more than 10 million visitors each year. The city has become a top global tourist hotspot. The emirate’s Department of Culture and Tourism has joined forces with Trip.com Group, which ranks among the world’s biggest online travel platforms. This mutually beneficial alliance will highlight Abu Dhabi’s attractions, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional hospitality to travelers around the globe. Abu Dhabi’s tourism strategy takes a major leap forward by combining its unique attractions with Trip.com’s worldwide presence and digital know-how. Both organizations will create engaging travel experiences and showcase Abu Dhabi’s remarkable destinations to millions of potential visitors across the world.
Strategic Partnership Details
DCT Abu Dhabi and Trip.com Group have formed a strategic collaboration to expand tourism in the emirate. Their joint efforts will reach 13 major international markets that include:
- India, China, South Korea, Japan
- USA, UK, Germany, France
- The Netherlands and other European nations
The agreement sets a target of 57,000 room nights in Abu Dhabi during the next 12 months. Trip.com Group brings its vast network of 1.7 million global accommodation listings and connections with over 600 airlines to this partnership.
Trip.com Group’s entire portfolio of travel platforms will support this effort. These platforms include Trip.com, Skyscanner, Travix, Ctrip, and MakeMyTrip. DCT Abu Dhabi has chosen to work with Trip.com Group as a single entity for the first time. This ensures their presence remains consistent across all global travel platforms.
The partnership goes beyond promotional work. Both organizations have created a talent development program that enables staff exchanges between worldwide offices to enhance expertise. They will also promote Abu Dhabi’s green tourism activities that reflect the emirate’s steadfast dedication to responsible travel.
Tourism Growth Opportunities
Abu Dhabi has shown remarkable tourism numbers and that has led to new growth targets in its Tourism Strategy 2030. The emirate wants to push visitor numbers from 24 million in 2023 to 39.3 million by 2030. These numbers represent a steady 7% year-on-year growth.
Tourism will boost the UAE’s economy substantially. The sector’s contribution to GDP will jump from AED 49 billion in 2023 to AED 90 billion by 2030. This growth will generate 178,000 new jobs by 2030.
The strategy focuses heavily on international visitors. Numbers will climb from 3.8 million to 7.2 million by 2030. Hotel capacity will expand from 34,000 to 52,000 rooms to welcome these visitors.
Current performance indicators show strong results across key markets:
- International guests surged by 54% in 2023
- MICE events grew 44%, hosting 960,000 delegates across 2,477 events
- Food and beverage revenue jumped 21%
Abu Dhabi’s location gives it a natural advantage. A third of the world’s population lives within a four-hour flight. Zayed International Airport serves as a vital gateway that connects global travelers to the emirate.
Cultural Experience Enhancement
Abu Dhabi’s cultural landscape beautifully weaves age-old traditions with modern artistic expression. You’ll find the emirate’s heritage on display at various attractions like the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Hosn, and the Louver Abu Dhabi.
The emirate offers authentic Emirati experiences through several cultural programs:
- Sharing traditional meals in local homes
- Visiting local ranches to enjoy Arabic coffee ceremonies
- Exploring Heritage Village
- Learning through cultural workshops and craft demonstrations
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi works hard to keep the emirate’s cultural authenticity while reaching out to global markets. The city comes alive with cultural events like the Abu Dhabi Art Fair and Traditional Handicrafts Festival.
Living traditions shape Abu Dhabi’s cultural foundation beyond its monuments. The emirate takes pride in its UNESCO-listed heritage elements such as Al-Ayyala performances, Al-Sadu weaving, and traditional Bedouin poetry. UNESCO granted World Heritage status to Al Ain Oasis in 2011, which houses 147,000 palm trees.
Trip.com Group’s partnership helps showcase these cultural gems in 13 global markets, including India, China, South Korea, Japan, USA, UK, Germany, France, and the Netherlands. This teamwork promotes Abu Dhabi’s authentic experiences while protecting its heritage for future generations.
Abu Dhabi has formed a strategic alliance with Trip.com Group to reshape its tourism landscape. Millions of travelers worldwide will now connect easily with Abu Dhabi’s attractions, including the iconic Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque and the cultural marvel of Louver Abu Dhabi. The Tourism Strategy 2030 shows Abu Dhabi’s bold vision with clear targets. The emirate aims to attract 39.3 million visitors, contribute AED 90 billion to GDP, and create 178,000 new jobs. These ambitious goals demonstrate the emirate’s dedication to growing tourism while protecting its cultural heritage.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s partnership with Trip.com Group spans 13 key markets and positions the emirate as a top global destination. The city has expanded its hotel capacity and cultural offerings. Improved access through Zayed International Airport makes Abu Dhabi welcoming to visitors from around the world. This collaboration showcases Abu Dhabi’s tourism experiences to international audiences. The emirate truly stands out as a destination that combines tradition with modern appeal.
