The UAE’s hospitality sector is set for a significant boost after Azizi Developments announced a Dh75 billion investment plan to build 151 hotels across the UAE, with the majority of projects concentrated in Dubai.
The mega investment, which will be delivered through Azizi Hospitality, is expected to create more than 75,000 jobs while substantially expanding the nation’s hotel capacity.
The move highlights strong investor confidence in the UAE’s tourism sector and demonstrates the country’s resilience as a global travel destination despite ongoing regional geopolitical uncertainties.
151 Hotels to Expand the UAE’s Hospitality Landscape
Under the ambitious plan, Azizi Hospitality will develop a diverse portfolio of hotels catering to a wide range of travellers. The development pipeline includes:
100 four-star hotels
50 five-star luxury hotels
One ultra-luxury seven-star hotel
More than 90 per cent of the hotels will be located in Dubai, reinforcing the emirate’s status as the Middle East’s leading tourism and hospitality hub.
Once completed, the hotel portfolio is expected to add around 60,000 new room keys, helping the city accommodate increasing numbers of global visitors and business travellers.
Landmark Seven-Star Hotel Planned in Burj Azizi
A key highlight of the development strategy is the planned seven-star hotel within Burj Azizi, an upcoming tower on Sheikh Zayed Road.
The skyscraper is expected to become the world’s second-tallest building, adding another iconic structure to Dubai’s skyline and strengthening the emirate’s reputation for luxury tourism and world-class architecture.
Strong Confidence in Dubai’s Economic Vision
Commenting on the project, Mirwais Azizi said the investment reflects the company’s long-term confidence in Dubai’s economic growth and tourism potential.
He emphasised that Dubai has consistently positioned itself as one of the world’s most stable and forward-looking destinations, supported by visionary leadership, modern infrastructure, and a business-friendly environment that encourages large-scale investments.
UAE Tourism Expansion Accelerates
The announcement comes as the UAE continues to accelerate its tourism development strategy.
According to global property consultancy CBRE, Dubai aims to expand its hotel capacity to over 160,000 rooms as it works toward attracting 25 million visitors annually.
Meanwhile, other emirates are also ramping up tourism investments:
Abu Dhabi is expanding cultural and entertainment destinations such as Saadiyat Cultural District and Yas Island, targeting 39.3 million visitors by 2030.
Ras Al Khaimah plans to attract 3.5 million visitors by 2030, supported by projects including RAK Central, Marjan Beach, and the upcoming Jebel Jais masterplan.
Construction Already Underway
Several hospitality developments under the Azizi portfolio are already progressing. A key project recently broke ground within Mohammed Bin Rashid City, inside the Azizi Riviera district.
The five-star hotel is part of ten hospitality projects currently in various stages of design, development, or construction.
According to Farhad Azizi, eight hotels are already under construction, marking a strong start to the company’s massive hospitality expansion plan.
Investing in Hospitality Talent
To support the rapid growth of the sector, the developer also plans to establish the Azizi Hospitality Academy.
The academy will focus on training future hospitality professionals in the UAE and developing internationally skilled talent to support the country’s growing tourism industry.
