Do More In Dubai targets residents, visitors

Dubai: Dubai has launched a new initiative known as "Do More In Dubai" to give a big push to the tourism industry.

"Our aim is to increase traffic growth by 25-30 per cent by encouraging promotional programmes for locals and expatriates," Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, executive director of media relations and business development at the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), told Gulf News.

The initiative for overseas visitors is running from May 20 to September 30 and that for domestic visitors will run from June 15 to September 30.

He said the move will also increase occupancy rates of hotel establishments during Ramadan through special promotions.

"Average occupancy rates are expected to be more than 83 per cent during the period," he said.

Rising numbers

According to an Ernst & Young report, hotel occupancy rates rose to 88 per cent in the first quarter.

"These numbers represent milestones in the story of the growth of Dubai as a global tourism hub.

"It is unlikely that we will see monthly hospitality sector numbers decline this year and they are likely to form the basis of growth for the coming years," said Yousuf Wahbah, E&Y's partner and head of Mena transactions real estate.

Emirates has been named the official airline.

He said, "We have 77 hotels, Dubai Mall and 25 attractions taking part."

The tourism industry contributed 31 per cent to Dubai's GDP last year. This was an increase over the previous year and DTCM hopes that there will be a rise this year.

The DTCM expects a 10 per cent increase in hotel guests this year compared with last year's guests and cruise passengers who numbered slightly over 9.3 million.

Family discounts

"Visitors coming to Dubai in the summer will receive discounts for the entire family.

"The Dubai Mall is offering discounts of up to 70 per cent on diamond jewellery, gold and silver on selected purchases," Rahman said.

Airlines will be offering discounts of about 50 per cent, and hotels will be offering free accommodation for two children below the age of 12.