The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) convened its bi-annual City Briefing with key industry stakeholders , bringing together more than 1,700 leaders from across the tourism, aviation, hospitality, retail and events sectors, as well as government officials and members of the media. At a time of shifting regional dynamics, the gathering, which attracted record attendance for a DET City Briefing, was a definitive demonstration of Dubai’s unity and forward resolve and a reflection of the deep public-private partnership that has long positioned the city among the world’s foremost destinations for business and leisure.
Held in the presence of His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of DET, the briefing for DET’s stakeholders and partners aimed to align on strategy, reinforce operational continuity, and accelerate delivery of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33 at a pivotal moment for the sector, as it navigates evolving conditions while sustaining growth and global competitiveness. The briefing featured a comprehensive industry overview structured around three distinct pillars: the coordinated industry response to regional developments; the resilience demonstrated across the tourism sector as well as recent innovative initiatives; and a forward-focused outlook on major initiatives, events, and developments set to define Dubai’s trajectory in the second half of 2026.
His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, we have built a tourism ecosystem that is coordinated, agile and globally connected. This operating model combined with the support of our stakeholders and partners, along with a diversified market strategy, has been central to the continued resilience of Dubai’s tourism sector.
The city’s response to recent developments also reflects a mature institutional framework built on long-standing collaboration between the public and private sectors, enabling decisive action and steady performance. As we transition into the second half of 2026, our focus remains on sustaining long-term growth and strengthening global competitiveness. We continue to evolve Dubai’s tourism and economic proposition in line with our ambitions and the priorities of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, as we move forward with clarity, confidence and shared purpose.”
His Excellency Ahmed Al Khaja, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “Events remain a critical engine of growth for Dubai’s tourism economy, driving visitation, supporting businesses, and creating year-round demand. Guided by Dubai’s bold and forward-thinking leadership, our events strategy continues to evolve from a strong foundation into a global benchmark for excellence, diversity and innovation. A thriving, year-round events calendar is one of the most powerful drivers of economic activity, and the pipeline we have ahead for the remainder of 2026 is a direct reflection of our confidence and ambition. The strength of Dubai’s events ecosystem is grounded in the public-private partnerships that underpin it. Working closely with our partners, we are curating programmes that enhance Dubai’s global appeal and contribute directly to the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33.”
Dr Shehara Rizly Fernando manages Middle East content, bringing over three decades of experience across print, broadcast, and digital journalism in Asia and the Middle East region. Beginning as a broadcast journalist, she transitioned into print and digital platforms, covering news, travel, tourism and destinations, hotel development, and aviation. She is also a strong advocate for women in the industry, consistently championing their growth and empowerment throughout her career.
