Dubai is highlighting its growing economic strengths and business hub advantages, through a series of road shows to businessmen and investors of three cities in the world's most-populous country.
Under the umbrella of the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), the road shows were held in Shanghai , Beijing and Guangzhou from September 13th to 15th.
The initiative was co-sponsored by Jumeirah, Dubai-based operator of iconic hotels like Burj Al Arab, Emirates Tower , Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach , and Alpha Tours.
The road shows attracted 22 co-participants including the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation (DCA). The events attracted over 500 participants from the Chinese business and corporate community, tour opeators, MICE planners, airlines, media, and travel agents.
The DTCM presented an award for the Best Co-participants Workshop Presentation. Raffle draws were also conducted for the participants.
Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, DTCM Deputy Manager Overseas Promotions, said: " Dubai 's progressive environment and liberal business policies were highlighted during the road shows. The Chinese audience was able to get meaningful insights into the strengths and advantages of Dubai and how they can benefit from the Arabian Gulf region's trading, tourism and technology hub."
He added: "They also gained knowledge about several interesting facets of the Arabian traditions, culture and modernity and how Dubai is attracting world attention, especially among the Chinese people."
Two-way trade between China and Dubai has seen phenomenal growth in the recent years. Air connections between Dubai and China have been expanding fast, especially after the launch of direct flights by the Emirates.
There has been a 20.6 per cent increase in the number of Chinese guests in Dubai hotel establishments in 2004 compared with the year 2003.
The UAE cabinet has recently approved the establishment of the UAE general consulate in Shanghai .
The bilateral trade has witnessed a marked growth, with a 37 percent increase in 2004 and 36 percent in the first quarter of 2005.
More that 3,000 Chinese companies are registered in Dubai , a sign of healthy and active interaction between both sides.
China is the world's fifth largest economy with a total population of approximately 1.28 billion.
Presently, there are an estimated 63 million 'big-spending' Chinese overseas travelers. About 100 million Chinese are expected to travel abroad by 2010.
The World Tourism Organization predicts that China will be the largest outbound and inbound tourist market in the world by 2020. |
