The UAE’s historic Garden City has achieved a remarkable milestone as the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism selected Al Ain Region as Arab Capital of Tourism 2026, following its current designation as GCC Capital of Tourism 2025. This unprecedented back-to-back recognition positions Al Ain as a premier cultural and heritage destination across the Arab world.
Historic Achievement for UAE Tourism
This is the first time a destination has earned the Gulf Cooperation Council and Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism titles in consecutive years. The announcement was made during the council’s 28th session in Baghdad, Iraq, validating the UAE’s strategic vision for sustainable tourism development and cultural preservation.
The recognition arrives at an opportune moment for Al Ain. The region welcomed 228,000 hotel guests in the first half of 2025, marking a 12% year-on-year increase, while tourism contributed AED 257.3 billion to the UAE’s GDP in 2024, representing 13% of the national economy.
Tourism Surge Across Key Attractions
Al Ain’s cultural sites have experienced explosive growth in visitor numbers. Al Ain Oasis recorded a 40% increase in visits during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. Meanwhile, the historic fort Qasr Al Muwaiji gained 49% more visitors, and Al Qattara Arts Centre saw 42% growth.
The Garden City offers visitors an authentic blend of ancient traditions and modern experiences, from UNESCO World Heritage sites like Al Ain Oasis to natural wonders including Jebel Hafeet mountain and sprawling desert landscapes.
Strategic Vision for 2026 and Beyond
The Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi will deliver a comprehensive year-long programme throughout 2026, featuring cultural events, festivals, community initiatives, and promotional campaigns designed to elevate Al Ain’s international visibility.
This recognition aligns perfectly with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to transform Al Ain into an integrated tourism ecosystem focused on three core pillars: culture, wellness, and adventure. The strategy targets welcoming approximately 520,000 overnight leisure hotel guests to Al Ain by 2030.
The designation also reinforces the UAE’s broader tourism ambitions outlined in the Tourism Strategy 2031, which seeks to attract 40 million hotel guests annually and increase tourism’s GDP contribution to AED 450 billion.
Regional Tourism Leadership
Al Ain’s selection reflects the UAE’s growing influence in regional tourism cooperation. The Arab Ministerial Council’s decision underscores the importance of cross border collaboration in developing sustainable tourism practices, preserving cultural heritage, and creating unified tourism experiences across the Arab world.
As Al Ain prepares for its year in the spotlight, the city stands ready to showcase its unique identity as a living oasis where rich heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and modern infrastructure converge to create unforgettable visitor experiences.
