Ian Scott, Director UK and Ireland for Dubai Tourism, recently took to DialAFlight’s Red Chair. During a question and answer session with Peter Stephens and Clemmie Harvey, Ian deals with some myths about the emirate, explaining that Dubai is a lenient, tolerant multi-cultural city, as well as a safe one that is ideal for family holidays.
“Around 80% of Dubai’s residents and most of its visitors are from overseas, so the city is very tolerant of lots of cultures and peoples,” he explains. “Contrary to common myths, for example, alcohol is allowed, as so is the wearing of bikinis around pools.”
Answering another myth that Dubai is a major construction site, Ian points out that: “Dubai has been transformed from nothing 30 years ago into this incredible city – and that obviously required major construction works – but the pace of development slowed in 2009, and those sites that continue to be developed do not impinge on visitors.”
Asked about recent Arab Spring uprisings in several Arab countries, Ian highlights the fact that Dubai has enjoyed increasing numbers of visitors globally, as it is a destination increasingly chosen by visitors to Northern Africa and the Middle East. “Dubai is a peaceful, happy place and has one of the lowest crime rates in the world,” he says.
While construction work may have slowed, several new hotels will be opening in Dubai throughout 2012, and Ian adds that: “There are some great-value hotel deals on offer” … and Peter Stephens could not resist the temptation to conclude the interview by adapting the DTCM’s message to: “Definitely Do Buy Dubai!”
To see the full interview, simply click here.
