More Brits visit Dubai than anyone else

According to figures released this week by Dubai’s Department for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, more Brits visit Dubai than tourists from any other nation.

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According to a report released to the world’s media by Dubai’s Department for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), Brits accounted for 719,889 of their 8.3 million visitors last year – more than from any other nation.

The Arab Emirate also managed to attract 9.4% more visitors in 2010 than 2009 despite the worldwide recession, testament to its growing appeal as a holiday destination.

According to the report, UK visitor numbers were boosted by a particularly strong October to December period, when UK figures were up 9% on last year. India accounted for the second highest number of tourists visiting Dubai last year with 638,103.

Ian Scott, UK and Ireland Director for DTCM, said the UK had a tough start to the year but recovered thanks to strong value offers put in the market, particularly by the hotel chains.

“The first part of the year was really tough but the fourth quarter of the year really delivered because hotels have been smart and put some great deals in the market.  Hotels are being much more commercially-minded and putting out tactical offers. Revenue per available room is down but the upside is that hotel occupancy is still high at 70% on average,” he said.

But he admitted India could soon catch up the UK. “I wouldn't be surprised if India becomes the number one source market,” he said.

“Already 2011 looks strong with many hotels running at 100% occupancy levels. For the first time, the DTCM has spent £1 million on joint marketing efforts with 10 tour operators for the January to March period this year.”

“The destination has also picked up bookings because of the situation in Egypt and Tunisia,” he added.

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