The meeting, chaired by His Excellency Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Tourism, was held in Al Zorah, Ajman, and brought together representatives of major national and international hospitality establishments operating in the UAE.

Discussions focused on improving the quality of hotel services, supporting tourism demand, attracting investment, developing competitive tourism products and enhancing the visitor experience.

Bin Touq said the UAE continues to develop its hospitality sector and to strengthen its appeal to local and foreign investment, describing the sector as an important contributor to national economic diversification.

He stressed that the private sector is a key partner in developing the UAE’s hospitality ecosystem, adding that the council provides a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and the development of tourism products and experiences aligned with the objectives of the UAE Tourism Strategy 2031.

Preparing to host UN Tourism Executive Council

The council reviewed preparations for the UAE’s first hosting of the 127th session of the Executive Council of UN Tourism, to be held in Abu Dhabi from 23 to 25 November 2026.

The session is expected to provide an opportunity to showcase the UAE’s standing as a leading global tourism destination, highlight its diverse destinations and experiences, and promote its long-term vision for a sustainable and competitive tourism sector.

Participants emphasised the event’s importance in strengthening the UAE’s presence at international tourism forums and in facilitating the exchange of expertise and best practices with global tourism leaders.

UAE participation in ATM 2026

The council also discussed the UAE’s participation in Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2026, including planned activities, sessions and partnerships with organisations and companies operating in the travel and tourism sector.

The participation aims to present a unified national message about the UAE’s tourism sector’s competitiveness, showcase the diversity of destinations and experiences across the country, and strengthen cooperation with international tourism markets and partners.

New framework for commercial music use

The meeting further reviewed the UAE’s new regulatory framework governing the commercial use of copyrighted music, which will take effect on 1 December 2026.

The framework includes annual licensing requirements for establishments that use protected music commercially, including hotels, resorts, restaurants, cafés, shopping centres and sports clubs.

Licensing fees will vary according to the type and size of the establishment and the nature of its use of music.