Middle East Focuses on Tourism

Governments in the Middle East, along with support from the private sector are investing their future in the biggest industry worldwide - the tourism industry.

This focus on tourism gives a timely boost for other sectors that are associated with the industry. Amongst the biggest beneficiaries are leisure, entertainment and amusement industry. This sector is central to a plan to package the Middle East as a modern and fun destination that offers the best entertainment in the world.
According to Mr. Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, organiser of trade exhibition Dubai Entertainment, Amusement and Leisure show, the Middle East is hugely focusing on amusement and entertainment in a bid to “position itself as a world class tourist destination”.

Improved product development, further tourism funding and an increase in marketing and promotion have all helped to ensure a healthy return on investment. The World Tourism & Travel Council has reported significant growth for the region and tourism in the Middle East is expected to benefit to the tune of $279 billion by 2016 (from 147 billion in 2006). Travel & Tourism activity is also expected to grow by 4.4% per year between 2007 and 2016.

Projects like Dubai Land, the Marvel theme park and the Fountain city are seen as trend setters in the industry, promising a unique experience to visitors.
Middle East countries are also exploiting the coast to develop both exclusive water parks & to incorporate a stronger water amusement element to traditional theme parks.