Dubai aims to steal London’s crown

Dubai is aiming to become the world’s most visited city, snatching the title from London, which last year attracted 16 million tourists.

In 2013, the United Arab Emirate attracted 11 million hotel guests, but it said it was looking to attract 20 million annual visitors by 2020.

Dubai’s tourism department admitted that it had set itself an ambition target, but said it was realistic if it could maintain the 10% growth rate achieved in 2013.

Speaking at the Arabian Travel Market being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre this week, His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, director-general of Dubai’s Department of Tourism, said the city was already a "must-see destination".

He added:  "Since His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai announced the Tourism Vision for 2020 at last year’s ATM, the UAE has won the right to host Expo 2020 in Dubai; the first phase of our second international airport has opened at Dubai World Central and a substantial number of new hotels, attractions and events have opened, taken place or been announced.

"Further, in addition to UAE federal pre-entry visa regulations on European Union member states being lifted, major legislative changes have been made which will directly and positively impact the tourism sector and enable us to attract more business and leisure travellers. "

Advantage will hold its annual conference in Dubai from May 14.