Backpackers are turning their backs on traditional destinations for budget trips in favour of more luxurious countries and resorts.
Backpackers are turning their backs on traditional destinations for budget trips in favour of more luxurious countries and resorts.
This is according to the Global Trends Report 2008 from the World Travel Markets (WTM), which found that the demand for package holidays to Dubai and other Emirate cities has increased and is expected to grow by up to another 17 per cent by 2012.
Fiona Jeffery, chairman of WTM, said that people are realising that Dubai and its neighbours have a wide range of interesting eco-systems and other attractions to explore.
“Governments and tourism authorities in the region should start promoting the untapped adventure and eco-tourism destinations,” she suggested.
International arrivals in the United Arab Emirates have risen to nearly nine million during 2008, with the UK accounting for 1.1 million of them.
Dubai aims to attract 15 million visitors by the year 2015, according to the city’s tourism officials.
