Dubai sets ambitious growth targets as tourism booms
Tourism now constitutes 30% of Dubai’s growing GDP, latest figures show.
Hotels and apartments recorded 6.5 million guests in 2006, generating revenues of more than £1.52 billion.
Traditional oil revenues were reduced to only 3% of the national GDP last year, compared with 10% in 2000.
Dubai has launched a financial plan which sets a new goal of achieving economic growth of 11% a year by 2015 and to almost double its workforce.
This would triple the emirate’s GDP to £54.8 billion, through trade, transportation, tourism and financial services.
The Emirate says the offer of “unparalleled luxury combined with Arabian charm” has helped promote Dubai to an ever-widening audience.
Dubai’s location as a gateway between East and West combined with year-round sunshine, infrastructure, service and facilities including restaurants, shops, hotels and spas have contributed to the growth.
That is due to continue with the Dubai Mall, which is claimed will be the world’s largest shopping mall, and Burj Dubai which is set to be the tallest building.
Also planned is Dubailand, intended to be the world’s largest theme park, and the three islands of The Palm project, containing the largest man made islands.
Bärbel Kirchner, director of the UK and Ireland representative office of the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said: “Dubai maintains its position as a leader within the region by demonstrating the ability to successfully diversify its economy whilst sustaining consistent growth.
“The next few years will look to build on previous successes and continue to expand the wealth of experiences which Dubai offers.”
by Phil Davies
Phil Davies
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