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Dubai can be a contender for world's top tourist destination

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Q. Is there anything specific DTCM wishes to showcase at the upcoming WTM?

A. Yes, Dubai will be humming with new activities and developments in the coming years. Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) with a solid team of 80 co-participants, will showcase the Emirates' impressive recreational facilities and futuristic development plans at the World Travel Market (WTM). Dubai will be hosting the annual IMF/World Bank Conference in 2003 (Dubai 2003). This confirms its position as a most-preferred MICE destination in the region. New initiatives of the Dubai Convention Bureau and Dubai Convention Centre will be announced. These are to support the increasing demand of MICE tourism in the emirate. The luxurious Palm, the amenities and facilities it has in store will be on display at the stand. Involving investments up to $3 billion, The Palm is due for completion by 2004. Dubai Festival City, Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City will also be presenting their facilities at the event.

We will be reconfirming our position as the sports capital of the Middle East, by highlighting our golf clubs extensively. Dubai World Cup, the worldÕs richest horse race will be prominently highlighted. A variety of other sport events are also on our agenda, these details will be given on the Dubai stand at WTM.

When we talk about shopping, Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and Dubai Summer Surprises have to find a mention. The Dubai stand will present an Òall newÓ DSF to the international audience. Not only has the month of the festival changed (January 15-February 15, 2003) but it also features brand-new activities, fun and entertainment.

Our sole objective is to convey the message that Dubai offers British holidaymakers a unique attractive combination of Arabian adventures and experiences along with the 21st century luxuries and facilities to match the best in the world.

Bin Sulayem

Q. To what extent does a show like the WTM help DTCM promote itself?

A. With 348,477 visitors in 2001, the UK is by far our largest tourism source market outside the AGCC, so WTM is an important indicator of the outlook and assessment of tourism as a whole. By participating in this premier event, we have an opportunity to interact with top names in the travel and tourism industry worldwide. The exhibition will be host to more than 5,000 of the worldÕs leading travel and tourism companies from 172 countries.

Q. How difficult is it to convince tourists that the region is safe?

A. DTCM through its network of 15 offices worldwide conducts a large number of information and publicity campaigns. These include roadshows, seminars, exhibitions, etc. In 2001, we participated in WTM with the largest ever delegation (132 members) sent overseas.

Dubai received the prestigious Global Award for its contribution to the international travel and tourism industry at this event. A travel advisory was also put on the DTCM website.

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