UAE domestic tourism figures reach 31% in Q2 2009

This impressive growth in domestic tourism figures can be attributed to the efficient interaction between government and the tourism sector, the launch of tourism projects that reflect the country's cultural traditions, the resumption of real estate projects after a period of circumspection, and the recovery of the economy and the rise of commercial exchange.

The UAE government has also undertaken all necessary measures to prevent the spread of highly contagious illnesses, such as the recent Swine Flu (H1N1 flu) pandemic.

H.E. Saeed Ahmed Mohammed bin Butti, Chairman of Al Dhiafa Holding and Jinan Hotels and Resorts, says:

"There are many factors that contribute to making the UAE a great tourism destination, such as Abu Dhabi's natural islands and wide beaches, and the country's rich cultural traditions, fantastic scenery and excellent golf courses, as well as the easy accessibility of its tourism hotspots and airports."

Bin Butti, whose company runs hotel assets in Abu Dhabi and aims to be managing 7-10 hotels by 2012 adds, "Abu Dhabi has been very successful in promoting both domestic and international tourism, and has opened numerous tourism offices in London, France and Amsterdam, with more international offices to be opened over the next 5 years, in line with Abu Dhabi Plan 2030."

Mr Noel Massoud, CEO of Jinan Hotels and Resorts, says:

"Abu Dhabi has made significant progress on the Sadiyat Island project - a large island off the coast of the capital that will be the cultural centre of the emirate - by establishing several cultural, scientific and educational structures, such as world-class museums. This step will pave the way for the tourism sector to greatly increase its contribution to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), provide job opportunities, rejuvenate the real estate sector and attract more assets."

Since 2000, the UAE has launched a number of projects to promote tourism in the country, and investment in the tourism sector is expected to amount to Dhs858bn by 2018. Of this, Dhs230bn will be in hotel projects in Abu Dhabi, which currently has 85% of all such projects across the GCC.

The UAE recorded tourism revenues of Dhs60bn in 2006, a figure that rose to Dhs70bn in 2007, and to over Dhs50bn in 2008. This is considered by many experts to be a strong indication of the limited influence of financial crisis on the country's tourism sector, which has continued to grow at around ten percent per year, the largest growth rate in the Middle East.