Dubai News: Dubai tourism chief welcomes travellers to the city amid ongoing regional tensions: ‘Dubai is open’

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, welcomed tourists from across the world to Dubai. He said the city continues to welcome visitors with key experiences, hotels, and attractions operating across the suburbs, despite the evolving regional situation.In an interview with Khaleej Times, Kazim said that public services remain functional in Dubai and the tourism offerings including beaches, shopping destinations and other attractions also remain accessible to residents and international visitors. Authorities closely monitor developments and while some venues may have temporarily adjusted access, operations across the larger tourism ecosystem continue as needed.

Safety and security assured

The official emphasised that safety and security for the travellers is assured and has always been the core of Dubai’s business-as-usual approach. “For us, visitor safety represents the highest priority, always. Safety is embedded in every decision we make, every operation we run, every experience we deliver,” he said. He added that Dubai does not choose between safety and hospitality and delivers both simultaneously with the help of systems that have been built to do “exactly that.” “That’s the Dubai promise, delivered consistently, regardless of what’s happening around us.”

Flights resumed

Air connectivity is a vital pillar of tourism in the Middle East, particularly in cities like Dubai that enjoy a major expat population. As of April 1, Emirates Airlines had resumed flights to more than 65 locations worldwide, reconnecting the globe to the Middle Eastern airspace. Visitors have been encouraged to remain in contact with official sources, including Dubai’s dedicated travel advisory page: visitdubai.com/en/travel-advisory.

Hospitality experiences

Dubai’s hospitality sector also remains prepared to welcome visitors with hotels operating and offering staycation deals for both residents and visitors. Luxury resorts and independent restaurants remain active, highlighting the coordination between authorities and private sector stakeholders. “We do not apply a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether it’s a major hotel chain, an independent restaurant, or a retail destination, we’re listening carefully and acting accordingly,” said Kazim.

Dining initiatives

Middle Eastern cuisine is one of the most enticing and delicious palates for travellers. Thus, the city’s tourism activity is also being amped up by curated experiences and initiatives. Until April 19, a gastronomy campaign ‘Dubai, A Fine Way to Dine’ is currently running, offering a curated selection of culinary experiences across the emirate’s restaurants and inviting visitors to explore and connect through shared dining experiences.

Dh1-billion incentive package

The city of Dubai has also launched a Dh-1 billion incentive package aimed at supporting businesses across vital sectors including tourism and hospitality. Under this, hotels have been allowed to defer payment of sales fees on rooms, food and beverage along with Tourism Dirham for three months. Businesses, as well, have been provided operational fee relief. In 2025, Dubai welcomed a record 19.59 million international overnight visitors. The number is expected to decrease this year considering the effects of the ongoing regional tensions due to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war. Measures like these, allow businesses to attract customers while also ensuring liquidity. Moreover, they allow Dubai to provide the seamless travel and hospitality experiences that it has come to be known for over the past decade.