Knowledge Centre

The Economic Boom of the ICC Championship 2025 in UAE: A Win for ALL

The ICC Championship 2025, held in Dubai, was not just a celebration of cricket but also a catalyst for a significant economic boost across multiple sectors in the city. From airlines and hotels to small vendors, restaurants, ride-hailing services like Uber, and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the tournament brought unprecedented opportunities for growth and revenue generation. Here’s a detailed look at how Dubai reaped the benefits of hosting this global sporting extravaganza.

1. Airlines: Soaring High with Increased Passenger Traffic

Dubai’s strategic location as a global aviation hub made it the perfect host for the ICC Championship 2025. Airlines operating in and out of Dubai experienced a massive surge in passenger traffic. Emirates, Flydubai, and other international carriers reported a 30% increase in bookings during the tournament period.

• Tourist Inflow: Dubai welcomed over 1.2 million international visitors during the six-week tournament, with cricket fans flying in from India, Pakistan, Australia, England, and South Africa.
• Chartered Flights: Several cricket boards and private groups arranged chartered flights, further boosting revenue for airlines.

2. Hotels: Full Occupancy and Extended Stays

Dubai’s hospitality sector witnessed a golden period during the ICC Championship. Hotels across the city, from luxury resorts to budget accommodations, reported 95% occupancy rates, with many properties being fully booked weeks in advance.

• Average Room Rates: Premium hotels saw a 40% increase in room rates, while mid-range hotels experienced a 25% surge.
• Extended Stays: Fans staying for the entire tournament contributed to an average stay duration of 10-12 nights, significantly higher than the usual 3-4 nights.

3. Small Vendors: A Festival of Opportunities

Small vendors and local businesses in Dubai thrived during the tournament. From souvenir shops to street vendors selling team merchandise, the championship provided a platform for small entrepreneurs to showcase their products.

• Merchandise Sales: Vendors reported a 200% increase in sales of cricket-related merchandise, including jerseys, caps, and flags.
• Pop-Up Markets: Temporary markets set up near stadiums and tourist hotspots saw daily revenues of AED 50,000-100,000 per vendor.

4. Restaurants and F&B: A Culinary Home Run

Dubai’s vibrant food and beverage industry enjoyed a massive influx of customers. Restaurants, cafes, and food trucks near the Dubai International Stadium and other fan zones were packed throughout the tournament.

• Revenue Growth: Restaurants reported a 60% increase in revenue, with many extending their operating hours to cater to late-night crowds.
• Culinary Tourism: Fans indulged in Dubai’s diverse culinary offerings, with traditional Emirati dishes and international cuisines seeing a 50% rise in demand.

5. Ride-Hailing Services and RTA: Moving the Crowds

Transportation services played a crucial role in ensuring smooth mobility for fans. Uber, Careem, and Dubai’s RTA-operated metro and buses experienced a significant uptick in usage.

• Uber and Careem: Ride-hailing services reported a 70% increase in ride bookings, with peak demand during match days.
• RTA: The Dubai Metro saw a 40% rise in ridership, while public buses and water taxis also recorded higher usage, especially on routes connecting stadiums and tourist areas.

6. Tourism and Entertainment: A Citywide Celebration

Beyond cricket, Dubai’s tourism and entertainment sectors benefited immensely. Iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah saw a 35% increase in footfall.

• Theme Parks and Attractions: Dubai’s theme parks, including IMG Worlds of Adventure and Dubai Parks and Resorts, reported a 50% rise in ticket sales.
• Cultural Experiences: Desert safaris, dhow cruises, and cultural tours saw a 45% increase in bookings, as fans explored the city’s offerings.

7. Economic Impact: A Win for Dubai’s Economy

The ICC Championship 2025 injected an estimated AED 5 billion into Dubai’s economy. The tournament not only boosted immediate revenues but also enhanced Dubai’s reputation as a global destination for mega-events.

• Job Creation: Temporary employment opportunities surged, with over 10,000 part-time jobs created in sectors like hospitality, retail, and transportation.
• Global Exposure: The event was broadcast to over 1 billion viewers worldwide, showcasing Dubai’s world-class infrastructure and hospitality.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Growth

The ICC Championship 2025 was a testament to Dubai’s ability to host world-class events while driving economic growth across multiple sectors. Airlines, hotels, small vendors, restaurants, ride-hailing services, and the RTA all played pivotal roles in ensuring the tournament’s success. The influx of tourists, extended hotel stays, and increased spending on food, transportation, and entertainment have left a lasting legacy, setting the stage for future events and continued prosperity.

Dubai’s success in hosting the ICC Championship 2025 is a shining example of how sports can unite the world and fuel economic growth, leaving a positive impact long after the final ball is bowled.

Credit: AI generated Image, Data collection from various resources and based on previous such events.

Amit Sharda

Chief Operating Officer | Hospitality Industry Expert