TravTalk Middle East Online Magazine
Abu Dhabi is establishing its status as a top global tourism destination. In an interview with TRAVTALK, Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations, DCT – Abu Dhabi, shares details.
Dr Shehara Fernando
How many Chinese visitors came to Abu Dhabi last year?
In 2024, we welcomed over a quarter of a million Chinese visitors, which is a 79 per cent rise compared to 2023. Flights to Abu Dhabi also increased by over 29 per cent.
What are the plans to woo more Chinese travellers?
We focus on showcasing Abu Dhabi as a year-round destination, with a calendar full of events. Summer performance has reached around 80 per cent occupancy. We are also expanding outreach into tier II cities in China, leveraging the Etihad Airways and China Eastern joint venture.
How has Abu Dhabi performed this summer, and which markets drove growth?
Abu Dhabi now attracts visitors year-round. Important markets include India, China, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Saudi Arabia.
How are you engaging travel agents in China and other key markets?
Our e-learning programme allows agents to learn about Abu Dhabi from anywhere. Tier I and tier II roadshows in China, participation in ITB China, and CVS in Al Ain help us educate agents. Tools like the WeChat mini programme keep agents updated and engaged.
What makes Al Ain the ideal location for the China Visitors Summit?
China is our second-largest source market and strategically important. Over the past few years, we have been running initiatives to attract Chinese visitors. Last year’s APAC Marketplace brought numerous Chinese buyers to Abu Dhabi. This year, partnering with CVS allows us to continue educating travel trade professionals about Abu Dhabi and its wider regions, including Al Ain and Al Dhafra. It enhances the overall visitor experience in Abu Dhabi.
