UK remains primary market for UAE

The UK has always been a primary market for UAE, shares Samir Hamadeh, General Manager, Alpha Destination Management, with TravTalk.

SHEHARA RIZLY

Is the UK market picking up in terms of outbound to Dubai?
There has been a major focus from the destination and its stakeholders on UK and we believe it will remain one of the top source markets in 2018 for Dubai.

Do explain the strategies used to get more UK tourists to visit UAE.
The more the destinations create attractions and tailor their product to cater to UK tourists, the better conversion they can expect. People seek experiences. Dubai is becoming a major attractions hub and it is very important that we focus on offering experiences and added value to our customer. Our approach to UK has to be different than other markets and key to that is coming up with new ideas to grow stop over business. In order to support Dubai’s goal to attract 20 million visitors annually by 2020 and maintain a stable momentum of growth, there is need for new packages and offers with added-value to entice transit passengers to stay for least one night rather than simply pass by. We are also focusing on Dubai’s strong calendar of events to excite more travellers to come over.

Which emirate do they like and what sort of vacations do they book?
Dubai is still at the heart of the UAE tourism attractions and it is still within the heart of UK tourists. This does not mean it stops them from exploring other lower budget emirates such as Ras Al Khaimah. We have also seen a major increase of visitors to Abu Dhabi from UK offering a great cultural experience, yet Dubai remains the main center and main attraction.