Dubai’s Smart Planning Shields It from Overtourism Challenges, says industry experts

Industry experts at the Future Hospitality Summit in Madinat Jumeirah emphasized that the city’s deliberate approach has enabled it to accommodate millions of visitors without overwhelming its infrastructure or crowding key locations

Dubai, renowned as a premier global tourist destination, is uniquely positioned to avoid the pitfalls of overtourism, thanks to its strategic planning, diverse attractions, and constant reinvention.

Industry experts at the Future Hospitality Summit in Madinat Jumeirah emphasized that the city’s deliberate approach has enabled it to accommodate millions of visitors without overwhelming its infrastructure or crowding key locations.

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Strategic Infrastructure and Distribution of Attractions

Aradhana Khowala, CEO and founder of Aptamind Partners, articulated Dubai’s success in managing tourist flows during her discussion with Khaleej Times. “Dubai doesn’t have the problem of overtourism.

The city has done a fantastic job of not getting to a point where everyone is crowding around the same spot,” she explained.

Unlike cities such as Venice, where tourists flock to limited attractions like gondola rides, Dubai’s layout ensures that entertainment options are dispersed throughout its extensive urban landscape.

Khowala highlighted that Dubai’s well-planned infrastructure allows various areas to offer distinct attractions. “There is no overcrowding in one area. In Venice and Barcelona, the problem happens in key areas as parts of the city are empty,” she noted.

This ability to distribute tourist traffic helps maintain a positive experience for both visitors and residents. According to recent statistics, around 93 cities across over 60 countries are grappling with overtourism. European destinations, often smaller in size, tend to suffer the most.

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For instance, Venice, with a local population of 50,000, attracts between 2.5 and 3 million tourists annually, while Barcelona, with a resident population of 1.6 million, sees a staggering 32 million visitors each year.

In stark contrast, Dubai’s 3.6 million residents welcomed 17.1 million visitors last year, yet the city remains manageable and enjoyable for all.

Plans for Continued Growth

Khowala asserted that Dubai’s diverse tourist offerings and robust infrastructure contribute to its capacity to handle even more visitors.

“The capacity that Dubai has means it can take a lot more tourists, and the amount of funds it is investing to create an attractive destination has the potential to grow immensely,” she stated.

The emirate’s ongoing plans include the development of multiple downtown areas to prevent congestion in any one location. This proactive approach ensures that the experience remains seamless for tourists while preserving the quality of life for residents.

JS Anand, founder and CEO of Leva Hotels, echoed Khowala’s sentiments, asserting, “I don’t see overtourism in Dubai. It has the right amount of tourism and infrastructure support, and it is able to handle the tourism.”

He compared Dubai favorably with cities like Rome, where crowded conditions can make walking difficult, contrasting it with Dubai’s well-planned urban layout.

Impact on Residents and the Environment

Overtourism can significantly impact local communities, as it can drive up the cost of living and strain natural resources. However, Dubai’s strategic approach aims to mitigate such issues.

Khowala emphasized the importance of creating a balance that benefits both tourists and residents, highlighting that overtourism occurs when visitors overwhelm local populations.

“The pressure on natural resources and residents of the city becomes unsustainable when tourism outweighs local needs,” she explained.

Dubai’s focus on sustainable growth helps maintain a high quality of life for its residents while providing visitors with an attractive destination.

Collaborative Efforts Across the Emirates

Khowala praised the collective efforts of the UAE government and various emirates in promoting their unique tourism offerings.

“Ras Al Khaimah is a destination itself. People looking for Shariah-compliant holidays go to Sharjah. All of these emirates have come up with their own compelling value propositions,” she noted.

This collaborative approach allows tourists to experience different facets of the UAE while alleviating pressure on Dubai. Well-connected airlines like Emirates and Etihad facilitate seamless travel between cities, further enhancing the overall tourist experience.

Marketing and Creativity as Key Drivers

Khowala commended Dubai for being one of the best-marketed destinations in the world, asserting that when the city promises an experience, it delivers.

“The cycle of creativity which policymakers have implemented is interesting. It caters to both mass and expensive markets. There is something for everybody,” she said.

Dubai’s commitment to innovation and creativity has been instrumental in attracting tourists. By consistently introducing new attractions and experiences, the city remains ahead of the curve, keeping its appeal fresh and exciting.

Khowala expressed confidence in Dubai’s ongoing ability to adapt and grow: “If Dubai keeps at its current pace of coming up with new attractions, I don’t think we will have overtourism.”

Conclusion

As Dubai continues to thrive as a global tourist hub, its thoughtful planning and strategic initiatives distinguish it from other cities facing overtourism challenges.

By ensuring a well-distributed array of attractions, maintaining strong infrastructure, and promoting collaboration among the emirates, Dubai not only protects its residents but also enriches the experiences of millions of visitors each year.

With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, Dubai is poised to remain a leading destination while effectively managing the complexities of modern tourism.

 

Tariq Saeed

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