Dubai is offering financial and practical benefits worth more than 3,000 UAE dirham (about £610) to residents who successfully attract family and friends to visit the emirate, according to the Department of Economy and Tourism, as the destination attempts to revive international arrivals following the US-Israel war on Iran.
The Dubai Invite Scheme and Tourism Incentives
The newly launched Dubai Invite scheme allows United Arab Emirates residents to nominate non-UAE residents to visit the city on valid tourist visas. According to Visit Dubai’s official website, participating residents receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes complimentary hotel stays, dining deals, and attraction tickets. Each resident can claim a maximum of three benefit packages for visitors arriving before October 31, with redemptions remaining valid through December. Local media reported that the initiative drew more than 10,000 applications within its first 48 hours.
Impact of the Regional Conflict on Visitor Numbers
This government-backed push follows a significant downturn in the UAE’s tourism sector. International passenger numbers fell drastically after Gulf states became drawn into the regional conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran. In February, Iranian missile and drone strikes hit the world-famous Fairmont hotel and Dubai’s international airport. These attacks disrupted the city’s established image as a gilded playground shielded from regional volatility. In 2025, Dubai welcomed a record 20 million tourists, but airline operations at local airports have since halved as carriers diverted flights away from Middle Eastern airspace.
Hotel Vacancies and Industry Adjustments
Local businesses report revenue declines exceeding 50 percent alongside widespread hotel vacancies. In response to the slump, some of the city’s most prominent properties have closed entirely to accelerate planned renovations. The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab closed its doors to begin an 18-month major restoration. Meanwhile, other hospitality businesses are participating in the government incentive program by offering steep discounts of up to 45 percent and free night stays.
Pro Tip: Residents participating in the Dubai Invite scheme must ensure their nominated visitors arrive on valid tourist visas and have never been previously nominated, as each visitor can only be registered once under the program rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the value of the benefits package offered to Dubai residents?
According to Visit Dubai, participating residents receive benefits worth more than 3,000 UAE dirham (about £610), which cover hotel stays, dining deals, and attraction tickets.
Who is eligible to be nominated under the Dubai Invite scheme?
Visitors must be non-UAE residents, arrive on a valid tourist visa, and can only be nominated once by a resident.
When must visitors arrive to qualify for the scheme benefits?
Eligible visitors must arrive before October 31, though the benefits can be redeemed until December.
Explore more travel industry insights and regional updates on our website, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest developments in global tourism.
Related reading