Dubai’s international overnight visitors have increased by three percent over the course of January to June 2019, according to the latest data released by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism).
Around 8.36 million tourists have helped strengthening Dubai’s tourism sector, reaching Dubai’s goal of economic diversification and the numbers are a reliable catalyst for GDP acceleration through 2020.
“Tourism is one of the cornerstones of Dubai’s diversified economic growth, and we measure success based on our ability to aggressively advance towards our goal to be the number one most visited and most preferred city as envisioned by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The consequent rise in value creation opportunities and more inclusive sector participation are core priorities, as we equally strive to sustainably grow GDP contribution,” stated the Director General of Dubai Tourism, His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri.
Streamlining access to the emirate by establishing hassle-free entry procedures continues to be a top priority for Dubai Tourism. The recent nationwide implementation of a tourist visa fee waiver for children under 18 years of age who are accompanied by their parents has augmented Dubai’s position as a leading, family-friendly tourism destination.
Heavily investing in tourism infrastructure, facilities, and mega development, as well as retail projects gives the unforgettable experiences tourists can get through the many more upcoming attractions and other family entertainment centres.
Dubai continuously provides a plethora of first-class entertainment offerings and attractions, such as the opening of the region’s largest multipurpose indoor entertainment centre that can hold 17,000 visitors called the Coca-Cola Arena. It offers a year-round programme of events including sporting tournaments, e-gaming, theatre and musical performances, conferences, and gala dinners.
The recently opened Quranic Park, designed to give international tourists a holistic understanding of the city’s Islamic heritage, is a comprehensive and immersive cultural and educational experience that stands over 60-hectares with two main attractions; The Glass House and The Cave of Miracles.
In the meantime, Dubai’s tourism sector is still facing a couple of the main challenges that revolve on remaining relevant and constantly top-of-mind to global audiences in today’s reality of overly saturated and omni-present communications.
“Our approach to create a unique positioning and raise Dubai’s consideration among global travellers is to regularly showcase the dynamic evolution of our city proposition and the versatility of our portfolio that delivers truly customisable experiences for each and every visitor. Such a strategy would not be successful without multi-level partnerships between the public and private sector, and our cross sector efforts are especially evident in the festivals and events spheres where our constructive and cooperative relationships with stakeholders have helped create truly memorable experiences for visitors,” he concluded.