Hollywood and Bollywood Celebs Power Dubai’s Tourism Pitch!

Dubai’s star-studded allure—fueled by A-listers from Hollywood and Bollywood—has not only amplified the emirate’s global appeal but is also propelling it toward a record‐breaking winter tourism season.

Celebrity Spotlights

Jason Momoa’s Star Turn at Ciel Dubai Marina

This week, Aquaman and Dune star Jason Momoa inaugurated the world’s tallest hotel, Ciel Dubai Marina, by launching his Meili drink brand on-site. His visit underscores Dubai’s growing cachet as a premier backdrop for celebrity partnerships and upcoming film shoots in the UAE desert.

Millie Bobby Brown & Jake Bongiovi’s “Find Your Story”

In April 2025, Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown and husband Jake Bongiovi headlined Dubai Tourism’s “Find Your Story” campaign. Through a cinematic two-minute film, they highlighted dining, desert adventures, and iconic skyline views—inviting fans worldwide to craft their own Dubai narrative.

Gwyneth Paltrow in “A Story Takes Flight”

Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow joined Kate Hudson and Zoe Saldana in the “A Story Takes Flight” campaign directed by Emmy-winner Reed Morano. The trio explored souks, watersports, nightlife, and family excursions—showcasing Dubai’s multifaceted experiences through Hollywood’s lens.

Deepika Padukone & Ranveer Singh: Abu Dhabi’s Bollywood Power Couple

We recently saw Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh become Experience Abu Dhabi’s first joint brand ambassadors. Their video journey through Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, and desert sanctuaries blends romance with cultural discovery—targeting India’s massive outbound market and global Bollywood enthusiasts.

Virat Kohli & Anushka Sharma’s Luxe Dubai Break

Earlier this year, cricketer Virat Kohli and actress Anushka Sharma starred in Visit Dubai’s #BeMyGuest video. Filmed at One&Only One Za’abeel and The Link cantilever, it showcased fine dining, infinity-pool views, and beachside bonfires—beckoning families and couples alike.

UAE Tourism Outlook: Winter 2025–2026

Dubai is on track for its biggest winter season yet, bolstered by blockbuster campaigns and new attractions:

• Visitor Numbers: 11.17 million international arrivals between January–July 2025 (up 5% year-on-year).

• Annual Projection: 27.6 million international visitors in 2025, marking a 4.6% rise from 2024.

• Peak Season Surge: Winter months (December–February) expected to see record crowds, especially from India, CIS nations, and Europe.

• Economic Impact: International tourist spending projected at US $62.2 billion in 2025, up from $59.2 billion in 2024.

• Infrastructure Booster: Mega-projects like new airport terminals and GCC-wide tourist visa piloting in Q4 2025 will further ease travel and capacity.

What This Means for Marketers and Travelers

• For Marketers: Celebrity-driven storytelling elevates brand campaigns, tapping fan loyalty and creating shareable content.

• For Travelers: The winter season promises unparalleled experiences—from celeb-curated itineraries to world-class festivals (e.g., Dubai Shopping Festival, Global Village).

• For Dubai: Sustained investment in infrastructure and high-profile partnerships ensures the emirate remains at the forefront of global tourism.

With Hollywood’s glamour and Bollywood’s star power converging on the UAE stage, Dubai’s tourism narrative for the rest of 2025 is set to sparkle brighter than ever.