GULF NEWS: Emirates’ tourism pays off

THERE is good news from the World Travel Market in London for the tourism industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which will contribute billions to the country’s gross domestic product this year.

Not only has it been predicted that the industry, which provides one out of every 6,4 jobs in the country, will grow about 2,8% annually in the coming years, but the companies and attractions that are the basis of the local travel and tourism sector have been ranked among the best in the world.

Etihad Airways, Burj Al Arab, Emirates Palace Hotel, Dubai International Airport, travel management company Dnata and Dubai Cruise Terminal are among this year’s award-winners at the World Travel Market.

The economic indicators and the awards show that the decision by the leadership of the UAE and its emirates to invest in tourism, among other industries, as a way of diversifying the economy, was wise and profitable.

And the leadership of the country is continuing to invest in the industry — with new or continuing projects detailed by Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, among others.

This is crucial, as they continue to work towards securing the UAE’s place at the top of the global industry. Dubai, November 11.