Middle East travellers return to Sri Lanka in summer - up 80 per cent on 2004

Sri Lanka Tourist Board (SLTB) tourist arrival figures showed an 83.6% increase in arrivals from the Gulf region (from June 2004 to June 2005), as many resident chose the island as a short-haul holiday, offering a lush green respite from their desert surrounds.

SLTB Chairman, Mr. Udaya Nanayakkara, said he was not surprised at the increased interest in Sri Lanka, due to its unique attractions for the Middle East travelers.

'Sri Lanka is less than a five-hour flight from almost anywhere in the Middle East, and with an increasing number of direct flights, it is even a more reason for people to travel,' Mr. Nanayakkara said.

'Sri Lanka welcomes visitors from its near neighbors to experience the wide range of unique sights & experiences on offer in this great country,' he added.

Mr. Nanayakkara said Sri Lanka's nature & adventure experiences, its luxury accommodation & renowned Sri Lanka hospitality, made the country a drawcard for Middle East residents.

Emirates Holidays West Asia Pacific Rim Manager, Mr. Jyrki Nilson, said travelers from the Middle East were increasingly looking for new destinations.

'Sri Lanka provides a great mix of luxury hotel and nature wonders and world heritage sites - it is a sightseeing adventure for families and all leisure travelers,' Mr. Nilson said.

'Arab travelers love to visit places such as the Cultural triangle, for its many historic sites, as well the famous Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, an hour from Kandy. Buying famous Ceylon gemstones is also high on the list of Sri Lanka souvenirs for the Arab travelers,' he added.

Mr. Nanayakkara said Sri Lanka had long established links with the Middle East.

'Early Arab traders established trading ports in Sri Lanka and called the country 'Serendib' the land of happy surprises. These Arabic links remain strong today, with mosques and halal food found in many parts of Sri Lanka,' said Mr. Nanayakkara.

'Trade links in gems, tea and other key products remain strong between the Middle East and Sri Lanka,' he said.

Middle East airline and travel companies have supported Sri Lanka's Bounce back campaign to revitalize tourism opportunities since the December 2004 tsunami.

Sri Lankan Airlines has in turn experienced a 40% increase in passenger volume form April to May this year.