The projections have been released on the eve of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2008, which is being held at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 6 to 9.

The Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) has projected the number of hotel visitors to Dubai to rise to ten million by 2010, from about seven million in 2007.

The number of hotels and hotel apartments is expected to increase to 488 by 2010, up from 452 in 2007. Dubai 's room strength will also rise to 64,179, a dramatic increase from 51,168 room units in 2007.

"As the key driver in boosting tourism in Dubai , DTCM will continue to exploit the tourism potential through strategic initiatives and focused policies," said Mr. Khalid Ahmed bin Sulayem, DTCM Director General. "We are on track to move Dubai up the ladder on the global tourism map, and continue to provide direction to consolidate the emirate's position as the tourism hub not just of the region but of the world."

DTCM is highlighting its achievements and future plans at its largest-ever showing at the 15th edition of Arabian Travel Market at the Dubai stand spread over an area of 1,080 square meters, with 132 co-participants and 90 booths.

"The visionary and iconic projects currently underway in Dubai are guaranteed to surpass our estimates for tourism growth by 2010. The next three years will see the most dramatic developments in tourism projects in Dubai, and DTCM is poised to play a crucial role in ensuring that Dubai continues to a front-runner in the region's moves to attract tourists from around the globe," said Mr. Bin Sulayem.

Mr. Saleh Al Geziry, Director, Overseas Promotion, DTCM, said: "ATM has always served as a strategic platform for DTCM to showcase its initiatives and Dubai 's tourism potential to the target market. This year, once again, under the combined Dubai stand, DTCM brings together all stakeholders who are playing a role in taking Dubai tourism to new heights. Visitors to our pavilion will be able to literally feel the pulse of Dubai through tools and facilities created specially for the event."

DTCM has created an online meeting planner under which all co-participants can view the hosted buyers and schedule appointments during the four days of the exhibition. DTCM has also brought out a buyers' booklet containing information about the guests to Dubai .

A separate counter at the Dubai International Airport 's Immigration section has been developed specifically for ATM visitors. In addition, Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department has put up a booth at the Dubai stand at ATM to promote its services and facilities including the e-gate card for the electronic pass through the airport.

Dubai and UAE Heritage displays at the Dubai Stand will enhance awareness about the UAE's old legacy and will act as attractions to the stand.

Dubai Police will also be present in the event with a separate room to promote its services for tourists.

Some 23,449 prominent players from over 100 countries are attending ATM 2008, the industry's leading travel and tourism exhibition dedicated to unlock the business potential within the Middle East and pan Arab region. The Dubai stand in hall 3, under the helm of DTCM, is expected to be one of the most visited stands at ATM 2008.