Dubai’s hospitality and tourism industry is set to regain significant momentum in the second half of 2026.
According to the latest report by Cavendish Maxwell, the recovery is primarily driven by the progressive restoration of international air connectivity, which had faced regional disruptions earlier this year.
As airlines ramp up capacity—led by carriers like Emirates, which has already restored approximately 85 per cent of its pre-conflict capacity—the sector is bracing for a robust performance in the fourth quarter.
The anticipation of the peak winter travel season serves as a key catalyst for optimism.
While the first half of 2026 experienced a temporary slowdown, experts view this as an externally driven, short-term challenge rather than a shift in Dubai’s long-term growth trajectory.
Supported by resilient market fundamentals, a diverse tourism portfolio, and new hotel inventory—with nearly 10,000 rooms scheduled for delivery by 2029—the emirate continues to bolster traveller confidence through innovative initiatives, including enhanced travel insurance coverage and strategic government support for hospitality providers.
