Dubai is rolling out a new initiative aimed at encouraging tourism in the emirate, particularly during the quieter summer months. The “A Dubai Invite” program offers residents enticing rewards worth over €700 for inviting friends and family to visit the city between July 20 and October 31, 2026.

Details of the “A Dubai Invite” Program

Launched by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), this initiative aims to transform residents into ambassadors for the city. By extending invites to friends and relatives living abroad, residents can unlock benefits exceeding AED 3,000 (€716), granting them access to over 20 exclusive perks. These offers include hotel accommodations, dining experiences, attraction tickets, and lifestyle deals—ideal for individuals wanting to explore all that Dubai has to offer.

The program officially kicked off with a statement from the Dubai Media Office, highlighting its goal of fostering connections and boosting tourism. The rewards not only aim to stimulate local businesses but also create memorable experiences for residents and their guests alike.

Exciting Offers for Residents

According to the official Visit Dubai website, residents can nominate non-UAE residents who are traveling on a valid tourist visa or those eligible for a visa on arrival. By successfully nominating visitors, residents unlock exclusive offers at top-rated hotels and dining establishments across the city. Participating hotels include Meliá Desert Palm and W Dubai Mina Seyahi, offering discounts of up to 45%. Additionally, the package includes complimentary tickets to attractions like Aquaventure and IMG Worlds of Adventure and two-for-one dining deals at popular restaurants such as ULA and Asia Asia.

Eligibility for the program requires residents to be at least 18 years old and possess a valid Emirates ID. Visitors must arrive in Dubai before October 31, and the rewards can be redeemed through the end of the year. Each resident can nominate up to three separate visitors, amplifying the potential for great experiences.

Addressing Seasonal Tourism Challenges

This initiative is particularly significant as it occurs during Dubai’s low tourism season, characterized by soaring temperatures that often reach around 50°C. During this time, international visitor numbers traditionally decline, making it essential for local authorities to motivate residents to bring in family and friends.

In 2022, Dubai welcomed approximately 19.5 million visitors, affirming its status as a leading tourism destination in the Middle East. However, recent regional instability—primarily linked to conflicts involving Iran—has introduced challenges to the tourism industry, such as disruptions in air travel and declining visitor confidence. In response, the Dubai government has implemented several economic support measures, particularly aimed at hotels, restaurants, and aviation operators.

Despite these challenges, the “A Dubai Invite” program has generated substantial interest, with around 10,000 applications submitted within just the first 48 hours. This overwhelming response has prompted authorities to reconsider the cap on available reward packages, signaling strong community engagement and enthusiasm for boosting tourism.

Reinforcing Travel Confidence Amid Regional Uncertainty

The program is part of broader efforts to reassure travelers amid regional uncertainties. Alongside the resident referral initiative, various airlines and tourism businesses are rolling out additional incentives designed to restore travel demand and support the tourism sector’s recovery. Notably, Emirates has introduced a pioneering travel insurance program that covers conflict-related disruptions, allowing passengers peace of mind during their journeys.

In summary, Dubai’s “A Dubai Invite” initiative not only encourages residents to invite their loved ones for unforgettable experiences but also reinforces the emirate’s commitment to thriving tourism, even during challenging times.