LEADING RUSSIAN TRAVEL NETWORK EXPRESSES STRONG INTEREST IN DUBAI

A group of 15 travel agents representing one of the most extensive Russian tour operator networks, Skyway Travel Company that has more than 800 retail offices across Russia, expressed a strong interest in promoting Dubai following a presentation at the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing's (DTCM) Head Office.

Speaking to the travel agents who are in the emirate on a familiarization visit, DTCM Manager Missions, Hamad bin Mejren said, "The department has been actively promoting to the Russian market since the Russian economy opened its doors to the rest of the world and we are seeking to target visitors from the high yield segment of the Russian outbound travel market."

"The Russian tourism industry is in a state of rebound following the economic crisis in 1998 and has grown in strength ever since," stated Mr. Mejren.

The DTCM works round the year to attract more Russian business and leisure visitors to Dubai, through a series of marketing initiatives including participation at travel exhibitions such as Moscow International Travel and Tourism show and Leisure. The department's other promotions in the Russian market include roadshows in key Russian cities as well as media relations and advertising among others. The delegates were in Dubai at the invitation of local tour operator Travco who arranged a comprehensive program for the visiting team.

Dubai's hotel establishments received almost 200,000 guests from Russia last year. There are currently 526 Russian tour operators promoting Dubai packages. Several leading Russian air carriers including Aeroflot operate flights between Dubai and Moscow. Moreover, chartered flights are also popular with a sizeable number of tourists from the CIS.