Dubai's new resident referral initiative has attracted more than 10,000 applications within its first 48 hours, authorities said, following the launch of a rewards programme offering residents perks worth up to 3,000 dirhams for bringing visitors to the emirate.
The surge in interest underscores the depth of Dubai's tourism slump, which followed Iranian attacks in March that struck the Fairmont Hotel, Burj Al Arab, and Dubai International Airport. Hotel occupancy has fallen to 15-20 percent of normal levels since the strikes.
Under the Dubai Invite scheme, which runs through 31 October, residents can nominate up to five guests at a time. Benefits remain valid until 31 December and include discounted hotel stays and theme park tickets. The emirate welcomed nearly 20 million tourists in 2025, a record that now appears distant as officials seek to rebuild visitor confidence.