6 upcoming projects in Dubai that 'will boost tourism'

Backed by groundbreaking plans including the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031 and Dubai Urban Master Plan 2040, Dubai is investing heavily in new tourism attractions to ensure it remains one of the world’s most visited destinations. Here are six key projects set to drive the next chapter of the city’s growth.

1. Palm Jebel Ali – A mega destination reborn

Having sat dormant for more than a decade, Palm Jebel Ali was relaunched in 2023 with bold plans to become Dubai’s next big tourism and lifestyle hub. Three times the size of Palm Jumeirah, this sprawling development will feature more than 80 hotels and resorts, plus a wealth of residential, entertainment and leisure attractions. Spanning seven interconnected islands and adding 110 kilometres to Dubai’s coastline, the project is set to redefine waterfront living and hospitality when it opens in 2026.

2. Dubai Reefs – A floating eco-tourism first

Dubai Reefs is a visionary marine restoration and eco-tourism project covering 200 square kilometres off the coast of the city. Designed to house the world’s largest artificial reef, the floating development will feature residential communities, ocean farms, eco-lodges and marine research facilities. The project aims to support marine biodiversity, create new job opportunities and cater to the growing demand for purpose-driven, sustainable tourism experiences.

3. Dubai Islands – Expanding the city’s shoreline

Formerly known as Deira Islands, Dubai Islands is a master-planned archipelago comprising five manmade islands and 20 kilometres of new beachfront. Already home to premium residences, hotels and marinas, the development will grow to include more than 80 resorts, golf courses, two square kilometres of parks and open spaces, and Dubai’s first certified Blue Flag beach. Positioned near the Sharjah border and easily accessible by road and sea, Dubai Islands will strengthen Dubai’s appeal as a multi-coastal destination.

4. Al Maktoum International Airport Expansion – The world’s next super hub

Dubai’s long-term tourism ambitions are underpinned by the rapid expansion of Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). With a projected capacity of up to 260 million passengers annually, the airport is set to become the world’s largest. Located in the rapidly growing Dubai South district, the mega hub will unlock direct access to new tourism zones in the south of the city and support Dubai’s position as a major global aviation gateway.

5. Dubai Creek Harbour – A new urban icon

Designed to be three times the size of Downtown Dubai, Dubai Creek Harbour is one of the city’s most ambitious mixed-use projects. Located along the historic Dubai Creek, the development will include 39,000 residences, 3,600 office units, eight million square feet of retail space and a new marina. Plans also include the construction of the world’s tallest twin towers. As the city’s new urban hub, it promises to blend modern living with rich cultural heritage and exciting waterfront attractions.

6. National tourism and urban development strategies – Building the future

Guiding all of these developments is the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031, which aims to attract 40 million hotel guests annually to the Emirates and boost tourism’s contribution to national GDP to AED450 billion (US$122bn). The strategy prioritises sustainable growth, innovation and collaboration across public and private sectors. Complementing this is Dubai’s 2040 Urban Master Plan, which emphasises green spaces, improved mobility and balanced urban growth. Together, these frameworks are set to guide Dubai’s tourism development and help it consolidate its reputation as one of the world’s most popular destinations.