Abu Dhabi is gearing up for an ambitious tourism growth with new cultural attractions.
- The city plans to boost global visitor numbers to 39.3 million annually by 2030.
- Major developments include the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and the Zayed National Museum.
- A new Sphere for events and concerts adds to the city’s diverse offerings.
- The strategy also focuses on increasing hotel capacity and lengthening visitor stays.
Abu Dhabi is setting an ambitious trajectory with a series of new cultural attractions aimed at enhancing its tourism appeal. Recognising the importance of cultural dimensions in attracting global tourists, the city is planning to significantly increase its annual visitor count to 39.3 million by 2030, up from 24 million in 2023.
At the forefront of these developments is the Saadiyat Cultural District, expected to host notable additions such as the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. This establishment will provide permanent art collections and unique exhibitions, catering to a diverse audience. Accompanying this is the Zayed National Museum, poised to exhibit the rich history and culture of the Emirates. Meanwhile, the National History Museum Abu Dhabi will offer insights into the region’s geological past.
Adding to the cultural landscape is TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, promising immersive art installations centered around Environmental Phenomena. Meanwhile, the city will soon host the world’s second Sphere, following its debut in Las Vegas, which will serve as a venue for a variety of entertainment events, shows, and concerts throughout the year.
Warner Brothers World Abu Dhabi is set to expand its attractions to include a Harry Potter theme, adding yet another layer to Abu Dhabi’s appeal, although specific opening dates remain unconfirmed.
In alignment with its Tourism Strategy 2030, Abu Dhabi is also striving to scale up its hotel inventory from 34,000 to 52,000 rooms, while targeting an increase in the average length of hotel stays from 3.2 to 3.9 nights. The development pipeline includes projects like Liwa Hotel by Autograph Collection, slated for a 2025 opening, and Nobu Hotel Abu Dhabi, expected in 2027.
According to Abdulla Yusuf, director of international operations at the Department of Culture and Tourism for Abu Dhabi, a vibrant events calendar is key. He expressed that tourists should find something exciting any time of the year. The strategy aims to distribute tourism’s benefits widely across the city, not just concentrating on specific areas.
Abu Dhabi’s multifaceted approach to cultural and tourism expansion underscores its commitment to becoming a leading global destination.
