The Impact of Dubai’s Tourism on the Short Let Market

Dubai is excelling as a global tourism hub. In 2024 the city welcomed a record 18.72 million international overnight visitors, a 9% increase from 2023, reinforcing its position among the world’s top travel destinations. In the first eight months of 2025 12 million international visitors arrived, and with the high season from September to December included, tourism is projected to reach up to 22 million visitors for the year (dmo.dof.gov.ae). Dubai also ranks first worldwide for foreign direct investment in tourism projects and has been recognised as one of the leading global destination in the Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Awards for three consecutive years.

For homeowners and investors in Dubai, record tourism figures are creating exceptional opportunities in the short let market. Demand for flexible accommodation is rising not only from international visitors but also from new residents who prefer short let options while settling in or before obtaining a cheque book or Emirates ID. Properties listed on platforms such as Booking.com and stayshort.com are achieving high occupancy and premium yields, particularly when professionally managed by companies like AirDXB. Strategic investment in Dubai’s short let market offers homeowners and investors a unique opportunity to maximise returns by combining the strength of tourism with expert property management in Dubai.

“Dubai tourism is at record highs, driving strong demand in the short let market. We are also seeing more new residents choosing flexible accommodation, particularly when they first arrive in the city or for those who leave during the summer months, as short let properties often provide a more convenient and adaptable option,” says Louis Bowers, Head of Partnerships and Business Development at AirDXB.

Dubai’s tourism boom is directly transforming the property rental landscape. International visitors increasingly prefer the comfort, privacy and convenience of short let accommodation, while new residents are adopting flexible stays both when settling in and during extended seasonal absences. This dual demand is propelling the short let market in Dubai to new heights. Professional property management is essential for homeowners seeking to capitalise on this trend, ensuring higher occupancy rates, consistent property standards, and compliance with local regulations.

The Role of Property Management in Dubai

While the potential for high returns in the short let market is strong, managing bookings, guest expectations and regulatory requirements can be complex. Expert property management in Dubai offers:

• Full service management including marketing, guest handling and maintenance
• Optimisation for platforms such as Booking.com to maximise revenue
• Compliance with DTCM regulations
• Professional cleaning and preparation for guests
• Marketing & photography
• Managing dynamic pricing to maximise ROI

With professional support, homeowners and investors can enjoy passive income while their properties perform like hospitality‑grade accommodation.

Key Short Let Insights for Homeowners and Investors

1. High Occupancy and Yield Potential: Prime locations such as Dubai Marina, Downtown Dubai and Palm Jumeirah attract high occupancy and strong nightly rates.
2. Flexibility Appeals to Residents and Tourists: Short let properties provide adaptable solutions for newcomers and seasonal residents, aligning with the increasing demand for flexible accommodation.
3. Professional Management Maximises Returns: Partnering with a management company like AirDXB ensures compliance, optimises pricing, and maintains five star guest experiences.
4. Market Growth Remains Strong: With tourism projected to reach 22 million visitors in 2025, the short let market in Dubai continues to expand, offering long term opportunity for investors

Dubai’s record tourism is creating unprecedented opportunities in the short let sector. By combining expert property management, high quality properties and an understanding of the city’s tourism dynamics, homeowners and investors can turn their assets into high performing income generators. With AirDXB, navigating the complexities of the short let market in Dubai is straightforward and rewarding.

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“With Dubai tourism at record highs, the short let market has never been more promising. Whether you are a homeowner or an investor, now is the ideal time to unlock the potential of your property. Partnering with expert property management allows you to maximise occupancy, achieve premium returns and ensure a seamless experience for your guests,”