Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, welcomed tourists coming from all over the world to Dubai. He said the city continues to welcome visitors with experiences, hotels and major tourist attractions operating throughout the suburbs, despite the evolving regional situation.In an interview with Khaleej Times, Kazim said public services remain operational in Dubai and that tourism offerings including beaches, shopping destinations and other attractions remain accessible to residents and international visitors. Authorities are monitoring developments closely, and while some venues may have temporarily modified access, operations across the larger tourism ecosystem are continuing as needed.
Ensuring safety and security
The official emphasized that the safety and security of travelers is guaranteed and has always been the core of Dubai’s business as usual approach. “For us, visitor safety is always the top priority,” he said. “Safety is an integral part of every decision we make, every operation we manage, and every experience we provide.” He added that Dubai does not choose between safety and hospitality, but rather provides them simultaneously with the help of systems that are designed to do “exactly” that.
“This is the Dubai Promise, which is constantly being kept, no matter what is happening around us.”
Flights have resumed
Air connectivity is a vital pillar of tourism in the Middle East, especially in cities like Dubai which have a large expatriate population. As of April 1, Emirates Airlines has resumed its flights to more than 65 locations around the world, reconnecting the globe with the airspace of the Middle East. Visitors were encouraged to stay in touch with official sources, including Dubai’s dedicated travel advice page: Visitdubai.com/en/travel-advisory.
Hospitality experiences
Dubai’s hospitality sector also remains ready to welcome visitors with operating hotels and offering accommodation offers to both residents and visitors.
Luxury resorts and independent restaurants remain active, highlighting coordination between authorities and private sector stakeholders. “We do not take a one-size-fits-all approach,” Kazim said. “Whether it is a major hotel chain, an independent restaurant, or a retail destination, we listen carefully and act accordingly.”
Dining initiatives
Middle Eastern cuisine is one of the most tempting and delicious tastes for travelers.
Hence, tourism activity in the city is also enhanced through coordinated experiences and initiatives. Running until April 19, the “Dubai, A Great Way to Eat” gastronomy campaign is currently running, which presents a selection of culinary experiences across the emirate’s restaurants and invites visitors to explore and connect through shared dining experiences.
An incentive package worth one billion dirhams
The city of Dubai also launched an incentive package worth one billion dirhams aimed at supporting companies in vital sectors, including tourism and hospitality.
Under this decision, hotels were allowed to postpone the payment of sales fees on rooms, food and beverages, in addition to the tourism dirham for a period of three months. Companies have also been granted an exemption from operational fees. In 2025, Dubai welcomed a record 19.59 million international overnight visitors. The number is expected to decline this year given the effects of ongoing regional tensions due to the ongoing war between the United States, Israel and Iran. Such measures allow companies to attract customers while also ensuring liquidity. Moreover, it allows Dubai to deliver the seamless travel and hospitality experiences it has become known for over the past decade.