Singapore remains top destination for Middle East travellers

Globally, Singapore welcomed a total of 5.1 million visitors - a 2.9% increase -during the first six months of this year as compared to the first half of 2007.

By comparison, in key markets such as the Middle East, which accounted for a total of 50, 262 travellers in the first half of 2008, visitor numbers grew by 18% over last year's figure, continuing a strong pattern of double-digit growth.

The United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Iran were recorded as the top visitor markets in the Middle East for the first six months of the year, posting growth of 23%, 18% and 37% respectively as these regional travellers head to Singapore in increasing numbers.

"Emerging markets such as the Middle East continue to play an important role in Singapore's tourism growth strategy and have helped us in offsetting the effects of the global economic downturn," said Jason Ong, Area Director, Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.

Although total tourism receipts fell 0.2% for the first half of 2008 over 2007 to an estimated $4.7bn, the Singapore Tourism Board remains positive that the mid to long-term growth outlook is bright.

"Although we have seen a slight recession in travel trends worldwide, we are confident that over the mid to long term, new developments such as the upcoming Integrated Resorts and rejuvenated Orchard Road will attract increasing traffic from the Middle East and the GCC in particular," said Ong.

New premium events and attractions have helped drive interest in Singapore's offerings through 2008 such as the opening of the Singapore Flyer, the world's largest observation wheel, and the first-ever FORMULA 1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix night race taking place in September.

"Our continued tourism infrastructure improvements and the introduction of premium family-friendly attractions ensure that we are well positioned to offer Middle East-based travellers with a unique experience each visit and help us boost our visitor numbers through loyal, repeat travellers," he added.