Abu Dhabi focuses on Turkish customers in Germany

Abu Dhabi , which has become a notable destination in the tourism sector with its investments in recent years, stands out with its strategic moves targeting the German market in particular. Abdulla Yousuf, Director of the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) Abu Dhabi , explained the emirate’s goals and vision for the future in an interview with fvw|TravelTalk magazine.

“Culture, sun and family-friendly fun all in one”

“Apart from the sun, beaches and first-class hotels on Saadiyat Island, culture plays a key role here,” says Abdulla Yousuf, noting that Abu Dhabi is an attractive destination for visitors from Germany. Yousuf also points out that German visitors are interested in getting to know the local people, history and vision of the region.

The main target audience is families

Stating that Abu Dhabi has family-friendly opportunities, Yousuf said that cultural projects such as the Warner Bros theme park, Seaworld , water parks, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Team Lab attract families with children in particular. He also noted that couples and business travelers also prefer the emirate due to its modern infrastructure.

Guggenheim Abu Dhabi to open in 2025

The cultural district on Saadiyat Island is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. It is stated that the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, which will be located in this district, will offer a unique variety of museums in the world within a five-minute walk.

Vision 2030: 56 thousand rooms target

Abu Dhabi aims to significantly increase annual visitor numbers and increase the number of hotel rooms to 56,000 by 2030. By 2024, this number will be at 34,000, and the hotel occupancy rate is at a high level of 85%.

Partnership and competition with Dubai

Praising Dubai’s pioneering role in tourism, Yousuf drew attention to Abu Dhabi’s differentiating points, saying, “We focus on culture, live entertainment and sports events. Joint promotional activities between the emirates, especially in cruise tourism and distant markets ( Australia , Japan , Korea ), are important.”

German market: On a strategic growth path

Germany is positioned as one of the seven largest markets in Abu Dhabi. Following China , Saudi Arabia , the United Kingdom and Russia , Germany stands out with its quality tourist profile. Yousuf stated that they want to further strengthen this market with special summer campaigns and new partnerships for the German market.

Data-driven marketing and technology

Abu Dhabi is implementing data-based marketing strategies in both B2B and B2C channels. As part of the new partnership with Eurowings, data sharing and market entry strategies are being developed. In addition, facial recognition tests launched at hotel entrances aim to reinforce the destination’s safe image.

FTI's bankruptcy did not affect the German market

Stating that they took quick action after the bankruptcy of FTI, Yousuf said, “We took control of the process by establishing new partnerships. The German market is resilient and adaptable. Our family-focused campaigns for the summer season continue.”