U.S. Visa cardholders contributed $733m to UAE's tourism economy in 2008

The report indicated that U.S. visitors to UAE were strong contributors to the national tourism economy, contributing $733m to tourism revenues in 2008, up 85% from 2007.

The average purchase amount for travelers from the U.S. while visiting the UAE was $139.69.

At the same time, Emirati travelers spent $262m on their Visa branded payment cards while visiting the United States in 2008, a 49% increase over 2007. In 2008, Visa cardholders from around the globe spent more than $53bn on their Visa payment cards while visiting the U.S. Other top contributors to the U.S. tourism economy included Canada ($15.3bn), United Kingdom ($4.7bn), Japan ($3.1m) and Mexico ($2.5bn).

Tourism Outlook:

USA also analysed traveler attitudes and intentions, based on a survey of 11 key source markets for international tourism. Key findings conclude that international travelers are fairly resilient. Only one in four are less willing to travel now compared to one year ago due to the socio-economic climate. And, 23% are more likely to travel internationally. However, they are not unaffected by the economic environment: 83% may adjust their international travel plans, while 52% will opt for travel during off-peak seasons and 33% will choose destinations where the cost of visiting is less.

"For businesses that rely on tourism, data such as the Tourism Outlooks is vital, particularly considering the current economic climate and external events that have had an impact on tourism,"

said Bill Sheedy, President, North America at Visa Inc.

"This data enables businesses to improve their offerings and marketing strategies to ensure that they appeal to travelers around the globe."

The U.S. continues to be a leading destination for international travelers. Almost half of respondents have visited the U.S. at least once.
Commenting on the significance of the findings for the UAE, Kamran Siddiqi, General Manager, Visa Inc, MENA, said: 'Travel and tourism are key revenue streams for Visa and it is important for us to understand the travel habits of our cardholders. In turn, this allows us to continue to offer value added travel rewards to our cardholders and enhance the experience, convenience and security of traveling with a Visa card."

How are travelers from around the globe making payments while abroad? Tourism Outlook: USA indicated strong preference for electronic payment among international travelers.

55% of respondents reported they prefer to use credit cards while traveling, with the next most popular form of payment being cash (20%). They are opting for their preferred payment method largely based on convenience (69%), security (53%) and ease of access to funds (46%).