Singapore sees 26% growth in visitors from Middle East in Q1-2010

Globally Singapore welcomed 2.7 million visitors in Q1-2010, a 20% increase compared with the same period last year. Of these, 36,511 travellers arrived from the Middle East, with the highest number of visitors coming from Iran, UAE and Saudi Arabia, according to figures from the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

"With the global economy shifting into recovery gear, 2010 has kicked off on a very optimistic note, with arrivals from the Middle East showing that visitors from the region are continuing to discover Singapore's unique tourism appeal. On the back of such a strong start to the year, the Singapore Tourism Board anticipates a double digit growth in overall visitor numbers for 2010," revealed Jason Ong, Area Director for the Middle East and Africa, STB.

2010 signals the emergence of a "Transformed Singapore", with an ever-growing number of global events and the opening of two multi-billion dollar Integrated Resorts, offering families world-class experiences, from the thrills of South East Asia's first Universal Studios theme park at Resorts World Sentosa to the luxurious shopping, and celebrity-chef dining experiences available at Marina Bay Sands.

Singapore has also undergone a brand evolution from 'Uniquely Singapore' to 'YourSingapore', which encapsulates the island nation's position as a premier destination for personalised travel, offering a fascinating range of attractions which are easily accessible and user-centric, empowering travellers to enjoy their own unique experience of Singapore.

"2010 signals the tourism transformation of Singapore, cementing its position as a must-visit destination for families, highly mobile individuals, honeymooners and business visitors. Singapore offers a diverse range of travel experiences, from cosmopolitan city life, high-end indulgences, enchanting beach holidays, world-class dining experiences, luxury shopping, cultural diversity or wildlife encounters - there's something for everyone in Singapore. With all this, and much more on offer, Singapore is the destination to watch out for in 2010," Ong added.

The first phase of Marina Bay Sands launched on April 27, with the opening of 963 hotel rooms, part of the designer shopping mall and convention centre, as well as six celebrity chef restaurants, offering a luxurious experience for all travellers.

The second phase will open on June 23 as part of the property's grand opening celebration, and will see the official launch of the Sands SkyPark and the Event Plaza that runs along Marina Bay, with more shops from the world's leading retailers, additional dining options, and exciting nightlife offerings.

Resorts World Sentosa has been operating at peak capacity since its soft launch in January, and with the opening of Universal Studios theme park on March 18 the resort's popularity has soared. The park features 24 thrilling rides and attractions, including the world's only Madagascar theme park.

The first-ever Youth Olympics Games is taking place between 14-26 of August, a month ahead of Singapore's Formula One night race, the only night race on the F1 race calendar, which runs from the 24-26 September.

STB is forecasting 11.5 million to 12.5 million global visitor arrivals in 2010. Last year Singapore received 9.68 million visitors, of which 117,000 were from the Middle East, a 2.7% growth over 2008.