The UAE, which has been dedicating considerable effort to boosting its travel and tourism sector, has ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and 18th globally, according to the World Economic Forum’s Travel & Tourism Development Index (TTDI). The UAE increased by 4.4% and climbed seven places compared to the 2021 index.

The report ranked 119 countries across five categories, including enabling environment, travel and tourism policy and infrastructure, infrastructure and services, travel and tourism resources, and sustainability of the travel and tourism sector.

The top three countries are the US, Spain, and Japan.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia showed significant performance improvement levels between 2019 and 2024, ranking among the top high-income economies.

At the same time, the Middle East recorded the highest recovery rates in the number of international tourist arrivals, 20% above 2019 levels. Compared to pre-Covid-19 figures, Europe, Africa, and the US witnessed rebound levels of 90% from 2023.

“This year represents a turning point for the travel and tourism sector,” said Francisco Betti, Head of Global Industries and team member of the Executive Committee, World Economic Forum.

With more available air travel options, improved international openness, increased demand, and interest and investment in preserving and maintaining natural and cultural attractions, travel and tourism is expected to soar to new heights.