DUBAI, Aug. 3 (Xinhua) -- Dubai's tourism sector recorded strong growth in the first half of 2025, attracting 9.88 million international visitors -- a 6 percent increase compared to the same period last year, according to a statement released Sunday by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism.

Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum said the performance underscores Dubai's ongoing efforts to establish itself as a premier global destination for tourism and business.

Western Europe continued to be the leading source of visitors, representing 22 percent of all arrivals. Meanwhile, the Gulf, Middle East, and North Africa regions showed robust growth, collectively making up 26 percent of the total visitors.

Dubai's hospitality industry also demonstrated strong performance, with hotel occupancy hitting 80.6 percent and over 22.2 million room nights booked. The total number of hotel establishments increased to 822, providing more than 152,000 rooms. ■