In today’s Instagram-fueled world, where travel destinations are often chosen based on where influencers have been spotted, tourism boards are increasingly tapping into celebrity power. Dubai, always known for going big, has been particularly proactive in expanding its lineup of star ambassadors.
The latest addition to Dubai Tourism’s glittering roster is Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal, accompanied by his partner, model and designer Gabriella Demetriades. The duo stars in a vlog-style campaign that feels like a luxury travel guide to Dubai’s top attractions.
The ad follows the stylish couple as they experience some of Dubai’s iconic offerings. Their adventure kicks off at Ski Dubai—because where else can you ski in the desert?—before heading up one of the city’s towering skyscrapers to catch a breathtaking sunset through binoculars. The day wraps up with a dive into Dubai’s vibrant nightlife, including a must-see stop at the Burj Khalifa for its famous light show.
Taking the campaign beyond conventional advertising, both celebrities have documented their three-day Dubai sojourn on their social media platforms. Their posts capture everything from local cuisine tastings to art museum visits, interspersed with walks through the heritage districts. The carefully curated content presents Dubai as a modern metropolis and a cultural sanctuary.
Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism has been particularly active in celebrity partnerships recently. A few months ago, they orchestrated another high-profile campaign featuring Bollywood royalty Saif Ali Khan and his daughter Sara Ali Khan. The father-daughter duo was filmed experiencing Dubai’s adventure tourism offerings, adding their names to the growing list of celebrity endorsements.
The tourism board’s talent acquisition spans well beyond Bollywood. Recent partnerships include Spanish football legends Iker Casillas and Michel Salgado, bringing their considerable sporting heritage to Dubai’s marketing efforts. The East Asian market hasn’t been overlooked either, with South Korean stars Park Hyung-sik and Park Shin-hye joining the promotional roster, ensuring Dubai maintains its appeal among K-drama enthusiasts.
This strategic deployment of celebrity influence reflects the evolving nature of tourism marketing. Each celebrity partnership is designed to showcase different facets of the city, from its architectural marvels to its entertainment escapes.
The effectiveness of these campaigns lies in their ability to present Dubai through various cultural lenses. Whether you’re following a Bollywood star’s desert adventure, a football legend’s sporting experience, or a K-drama idol’s luxury hotel tour, Dubai Tourism is apparently ensuring that potential visitors see the city through a familiar and trusted perspective.
The tourism industry is still coming to terms with the post-pandemic world, and Dubai’s celebrity-driven marketing strategy demonstrates how destination promotion has evolved. The emirate’s approach—mixing star power with strategic market targeting—is very indicative of modern tourism marketing, which occasionally feels like watching a very expensive game of celebrity musical chairs.
