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ABU DHABI / WAM
The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) hosted a forum for stakeholders and partners to share its industry outlook amid resurgence in the sector since Dubai’s reopening to international tourists on July 7. The meeting provided insights into the current tourism situation both in the UAE and worldwide and steps taken to accelerate growth momentum including marketing campaigns worldwide designed to reinforce Dubai’s profile as a safe must-visit destination.
The meeting held outdoors at the Fitness Village, Dubai Festival City, saw the forum return to a physical setting. Stakeholder meetings held since the start of the pandemic had previously been held remotely. Precautionary guidelines were comprehensively observed, including temperature screening, wearing of masks and social distancing. Presided by Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Tourism, the meeting was attended by over 600 key executives from establishments in the hospitality, travel, leisure and retail sectors.
The partners were briefed on positive developments since the city’s reopening to tourists including the steady influx from markets that have opened and the robust domestic tourism performance driven by stakeholder support.
It was observed that while the “second wave†of the pandemic has impacted most of Europe with additional lockdowns and travel restrictions, the inclusion of the UAE in UK’s quarantine-free travel corridor and the anticipated opening of neighbouring markets together with the successful citywide management of the pandemic are expected to increase visitors to Dubai.
The meeting also highlighted the hospitality sector’s rebound that saw hotels in Dubai enjoying occupancy levels of 51% in September, further instilling confidence in this sector and demonstrating its capability to attract guests.