Switzerland Joins Canada, Germany, and South Korea in Shaping the Future of UAE Tourism as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah See Record Growth in 2026

Switzerland joins Canada, Germany, and South Korea in shaping the future of UAE tourism, as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah soar to new heights in 2026. With a surge in Swiss visitors, the UAE is fast becoming a top destination for those seeking the perfect blend of luxury, culture, and adventure. From world-class hotels with stunning views to rich cultural landmarks and thrilling attractions, the UAE offers an unforgettable experience that’s drawing tourists from key global markets. As Swiss travellers flock to the region, alongside others from around the world, this rising demand is not only fueling record growth in the country’s tourism sector but also reshaping its future as a premier global destination.

Travellers from nations like Germany, Switzerland, Canada, and South Korea are increasingly choosing the UAE for its exceptional mix of cultural richness, luxury, and unmatched experiences. Sharjah, in particular, has seen a remarkable uptick in search interest, particularly among German visitors, with searches climbing by 101%. The emirate’s wealth of historical landmarks, stunning beaches, and budget-friendly travel options have made it a compelling choice for tourists. Swiss travellers have also demonstrated a growing preference for Sharjah, with search activity up by 99% compared to the previous year, highlighting the emirate’s rising popularity.

The Power of Hotels in Shaping Travel Decisions

Dubai’s rise in popularity is further bolstered by its seamless flight connectivity, visa-free entry for Canadian travellers, and a notable 16% decrease in travel costs compared to 2024. Abu Dhabi has also become a popular choice among South Korean visitors, benefiting from a 27% drop in prices in 2025.

The Skyscanner report highlights the growing influence of accommodation in travel decision-making. A notable 76% of travellers indicated that the availability and quality of hotels played a pivotal role in choosing their destination. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger travellers, with 77% of Gen Z and 78% of Millennials ranking hotel quality as a top priority. This shift underscores the increasing importance of hotels in shaping and enhancing the overall travel experience.

The average length of stay is also increasing, with tourists planning to stay six days in the UAE in 2026, compared to four days in 2025. This suggests that visitors are seeking more immersive experiences, taking the time to explore and enjoy the destinations on a deeper level.

Diverse Offerings for International Tourists

The UAE’s allure continues to grow, especially with its world-class hotels offering private beaches, pools, and proximity to iconic attractions like shopping malls, cultural landmarks, and theme parks. The combination of luxury, convenience, and variety is set to attract tourists from a broad spectrum of countries, including the UK, India, Germany, France, Italy, Turkey, Australia, and the Netherlands.

Dubai, known for its luxury shopping, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant nightlife, remains a major draw. Meanwhile, Abu Dhabi is carving out its space as a cultural and leisure hotspot with offerings like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and immersive desert experiences. Sharjah, with its deep cultural roots, appeals to those seeking history, tradition, and family-friendly activities, making it an exciting alternative for a more diverse traveller base.

Tourism Trends Shaping the UAE’s Future

The UAE’s consistent growth in the tourism sector reflects a broader global trend: tourists are increasingly looking for high-quality accommodation that enhances their travel experience. As a result, the UAE is seeing a rise in interest not only in its major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi but also in its regional destinations like Sharjah. The balance between affordability and luxury is becoming a key attraction for international visitors, making the UAE an attractive destination for all types of travellers.

The drop in travel costs, especially for countries like Canada and South Korea, has only made the UAE more accessible to a wider audience. With an increase in affordable travel options and luxury offerings, the UAE has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination. The country’s diverse mix of modern marvels, traditional heritage, and natural beauty is expected to continue drawing large numbers of international visitors in 2026.

Regional Areas Gaining Traction

While Dubai continues to lead as the top destination for international tourists, the growing interest in regional areas like Sharjah and Abu Dhabi marks a significant shift. More travellers are choosing to explore beyond the well-trodden path of Dubai, seeking cultural experiences and regional attractions. Sharjah, with its cultural festivals, museums, and artistic endeavors, is rapidly gaining popularity, while Abu Dhabi’s blend of modernity and tradition offers a unique appeal to both local and international tourists.

This growing interest in regional areas is a positive development for the UAE’s tourism industry, as it helps spread the benefits of tourism across the country. With increasing investment in regional tourism infrastructure, destinations like Sharjah are expected to see continued growth in international visitor numbers.

Switzerland joins Canada, Germany, and South Korea in driving the future of UAE tourism, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah seeing record growth in 2026. This surge reflects the UAE’s growing appeal, offering a perfect blend of luxury, culture, and unique experiences for international travellers.

The UAE is poised to remain one of the world’s leading tourism destinations in 2026, with Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah continuing to draw visitors from across the globe. The country’s rise in popularity is driven by its world-class hotels, cultural diversity, and competitive pricing, making it an appealing option for a wide range of international travellers. As the focus shifts towards immersive travel experiences and high-quality accommodation, the UAE is set to maintain its position as a top global tourism hub, attracting millions of tourists in the years ahead.

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