UNREST in the Middle East has had little impact on travel to the UAE, which is perceived as a safe haven from political and economic tension. On the contrary, the federation has been receiving a steady stream of diverted travellers, and is expecting even more bookings ahead for leisure and MICE.
Dubai Convention Bureau research executive, Sheikha Abe Bangit, said that impact from the unrest in the Middle East had been minimal on the UAE.
“In fact, we will have two major conferences, the International Bar Association with 5,000 delegates and International Diabetes Federation with 10,000 delegates towards the end of the year,” he said.
Dubai-based The Vision Destination Management chairman and owner, Ali Abu Monassar, said: “The fact that Dubai is a safe country, with easy access and facilities in place, has made it possible for organisers and operators to move their events here quickly.”
Elsewhere in the region, while the situation is not as rosy, it has normalised somewhat.
Egypt ToP Light Travel chairman, Omar Aly Awean, said: “The immediate impact was big for the country. But now, it is completely safe for travellers to come.”
In Oman, Sohar Beach by Swiss-Belhotel, which mainly caters to business travellers from neighbouring countries, has seen business pick up again after it slowed down the first month following the unrest in Egypt.
The hotel’s reservation agent, Shady Rabea, said: ” Such a condition can’t stop business travellers from travelling for long.”
