Dubai welcomed 869,000 international overnight visitors in August 2026, its highest monthly volume since February, taking January–August arrivals to 6.97 million, according to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) data released as Arabian Travel Market opened. The emirate recorded 66% hotel occupancy in August, up from 36% in March, while hotel inventory approached 149,000 rooms and occupied room nights reached 21.61 million during the first eight months. Western Europe accounted for 20% of visitors, followed by South Asia at 17% and GCC markets at 16%. DET CEO Issam Kazim said, “We are proud of the way our industry has performed over recent months.” More than 300 international travel trade professionals from over 40 countries are attending DET’s ATM Hosted Buyers Programme.
Shreya Bansal is a reporter at TravTalk India, covering the travel and tourism industry. She brings a keen eye for emerging trends, trade developments, and the stories shaping the travel landscape. Through in-depth reporting and on-ground insights, she connects industry stakeholders with news that matters. Beyond travel, Shreya has a growing interest in the premium lifestyle space, particularly the world of fine jewellery and is eager to explore the craftsmanship, culture, and commerce that define luxury living.