ABU DHABI GOES LUXE

IN AN EXCLUSIVE CHAT, DCT ABU DHABI'S ABDULLA YOUSUF REVEALS HOW THE EMIRATE IS REINVENTING ITSELF THROUGH BOLD CULTURAL MOVES AND LUXURY EXPERIENCES

- Words → HIMAKSHI PANWAR

WHEN ONE THINKS OF ABU DHABI, THE UAE capital's vast oil reserves are often the first to come to mind, followed closely by its gleaming skyscrapers and cutting-edge infrastructure, affirming its world-class status.

But beyond the modern marvels, Abu Dhabi is steadily redefining itself as a cultural powerhouse. From a forthcoming Disneyland to immersive art spaces in the Saadiyat Cultural District, the city is opening its doors to deeper, more diverse visitor experiences.

Indian travellers, in particular, are taking note. In 2024, Abu Dhabi recorded a 43 per cent rise in footfall from India, welcoming over 3.58 lakh Indian visitors. That number is expected to cross 4 lakh in 2025, reinforcing the Emirate's appeal as a luxurious yet accessible Middle Eastern getaway.

In an exclusive conversation with Outlook Traveller, Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), offered insights into the Emirate's dynamic tourism evolution. He noted that the department is positioning Abu Dhabi as a year-round destination through strategic global campaigns. A key pillar of this effort is the ambitious Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract nearly 40 million annual visitors by the decade's end. Excerpts from the interview here.

What new experiences are being introduced specifically for Indian travellers?