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Singapore welcomed 8.4 million visitor arrivals from January to October 2007, representing an increase of 5% over last year’s figures.
The Middle East region was a major contributor to this trend, with total visitor arrivals growing 20% year-on-year. All GCC markets saw
more visitors to Singapore compared to a year ago, with strong double digit growth from key markets like the UAE (20%), Saudi Arabia
(12%), and Kuwait (13%).
In addition, Iran has also emerged as a dynamic market for Singapore, showing significant growth in visitor numbers in 2007, with a 49%
increase from last year.
To
increase the numbers of visitor arrivals from this region and elsewhere,
a whole range of special events has been planned for 2008. Events on the calendar for 2008 include the planned launch in March of the Singapore Flyer,
one of the highest observation wheel's in the world.
Singapore will also host the
Formula
One Grand Prix for the first time in September, where racing enthusiasts can look forward to
experiencing a breathtaking street circuit in the heart of downtown
Singapore. The world-class affair is already set to be one of the most dramatic and atmospheric events on the international racing calendar, with plans
in place to be the first race in the history of the championship to be held at night.
“With so much going on in Singapore for 2008, the city is set to grow its tourism levels and cater to a variety of visitors from the Middle
East,” said Siew-Kheng Kang, Regional Director for South Asia, Middle East & Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.
“In addition, the New Year will see more options on offer to ensure that they have a memorable time in Singapore, including tailored holiday
and healthcare packages that appeal to regional visitors,” Siew-Kheng added.
Singapore will continue to host its
other famous annual events, including Chinatown’s Chinese New Year, The Great Singapore Sale, Singapore’s
Food and Fashion Festival, Zoukout, and Christmas in the Tropics.
To fully showcase its new tourist offerings and special travel packages in the Middle East, the Singapore Tourism Board will participate in a
large number of events across the region, which include Arab Health in January, The Gulf Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings Event
(GIBTM) in April, Arabian Travel Market (ATM) and Bahrain International Travel Exhibition (BITE) in May, followed by ongoing GCC
roadshows to further extend the country’s offerings.
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