Germany reaffirms goal of attracting more GCC visitors

Of the 13,000 people polled globally, Germany alone was viewed favourably in all 21 countries, with 61 percent of participants having a positive image of Germany. This represents an increase of 5% from the results recorded last year.

The survey findings are supported by the Anholt-GfK Roper Nation Brands Index, an annual study that measures the image of 50 countries relating to their exports, governance, culture, investment, and tourism. Based on interviews with 20,000 people, the report indicates that Germany's appeal has significantly grown since hosting the 2006 football World Cup, and it now occupies first place in the index with the best overall country "brand".

Increasingly strong relations between Germany and the Gulf countries have led to Germany's rising popularity among GCC nationals. In particular, Germany has seen a large increase in the number of Saudi and other GCC visitors over the past several years, as its moderate climate and variety of attractions appeal to a broad range of tastes. The numerous theme and leisure parks particularly suit families with small children; couples can enjoy exploring Germany's many traditional towns and shopping centres, while the varied landscape of valleys, lakes and mountains offers relaxing spa breaks and adventure holidays alike.

Remarking on Germany's appeal to Gulf tourists, Antje Roeding, Director of Marketing and Sales, Office Gulf Countries, said, "The German National Tourist Office has accompanied the increase in GCC tourists to Germany over the past few years with a great effort to respond to their needs, and reach out to Gulf nationals in their home countries. We are committed to enhancing Germany's attraction both to those who have already visited Germany, and to those who are still contemplating this step.

"Germany has much to offer families, couples and young people from the GCC region and will hopefully continue to attract them even during these times of global economic crisis. 2009 is a particularly interesting year to visit Germany since we are celebrating a number of historical occasions. These will be marked by many cultural events all over the country and we hope that visitors from the GCC region will be able to join us in our festivities."

Notably, Germany is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its peaceful unification between East and West and the fall of the Berlin Wall. To mark this momentous occasion, a variety of special events are taking place throughout the country, including museum exhibitions, presentations, festivals and educational walks, all of which will be particularly fascinating to visitors from abroad.