Dubai poised to become centre of family tourism

The UAE is positioned high in the new emerging travel market since family values are embedded in the country’s culture. — KT file photo 

Family tourism has emerged as a major segment of the Islamic economy, accounting for as much as 12.5 per cent of the $1.07 trillion global tourism market in 2012, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry has stated in its latest research note based on Thomson Reuters data.
The size and potential of this market can be estimated from the fact that it is larger than the world’s largest conventional tourism market, the United States, which is only 11.4 per cent of the global market. The report has been released as part of the preparations for the 10th World Islamic Economic Forum, or WIEF, which will be organised by the Dubai Chamber and the WIEF Foundation in Dubai from October 28 to 30.
“Family tourism is one of the most vibrant areas of the global tourism industry and a key element of the Islamic economy. With Muslim travellers constituting a major segment of the global tourism traffic, the priorities of families have become critical to the tourism industry’s growth and have redefined the focal areas for tourism activities,” said Abdul Rahman Saif Al Ghurair, chairman of the Dubai Chamber.
“The findings of the Dubai Chamber report are of much significance in light of the ‘Dubai Capital of Islamic Economy’ initiative launched in 2013, which has identified family tourism as an important pillar and a major growth area. Dubai is strategically positioned to become a centre of family tourism as it aims to become the capital of the Islamic economy and builds its tourism infrastructure to create family-oriented hospitality services and facilities in accordance with Islamic practices