French Minister of Tourism impressed with Dubai's aggressive marketing

"We are bowled over by the response we have received from the French travel market during our 13th consecutive participation at this event and the feedback from the travel trade in France as well as our co-participants points to a definite surge in French visitors to Dubai," remarked DTCM Director General, Khalid A. bin Sulayem.

He noted that even in 2001 Dubai's hotel establishments had recorded a 13% growth in guests from France and the indications are positive that this trend will continue well into 2003 and beyond.

12 travel industry co-participants from the emirate joined the DTCM to participate in the three-day Top Resa exhibition, the largest tourism show for French travel and tourism professionals that has been attracting top product and service providers in the tourism business from around the world.

DTCM Executive Overseas Promotions, Khalifa Ali Buamaim, who represented the department at the event remarked, "The visit of the French Minister of Tourism and his favorable comments put the spotlight on Dubai during the event."

"Moreover, the CEO of the French Association of Travel Agents, Cesar Balderacchi also visited the Dubai stand and his visit was momentous because he is an influential leader whose opinion commands a lot of respect in the French travel community and the association members who exceed 4,000 French travel agents," added Mr. Buamaim.

The Dubai team at the event comprised Burj Al Arab, The Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Le Royal Meriden Beach Resort & Spa, Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, Royal Mirage, Jebel Ali Hotel & Golf Resort, Taj Palace Hotel Dubai, Net Group of Companies, Alpha Tours, Planet Travel Tours & Cargo, Passage To Arabia, Golden Ring Tourism,

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