The number of UAE visitors to the United Kingdom increased 13 per cent in the first half of 2009 compared to the same period last year, according to a Visit Britain official. Director of Strategy and Insights, Patricia Yates, said “We expect this trend to continue through to the end of the year.” She said the number of UAE visitors account for 13 per cent of total visitors to the UK.
The number of UAE visitors to the UK increased 24 per cent to 232,000 in 2008 compared to 2007, and tourist spending during 2008 surged 53 per cent to £289 million (Dh1.73 billion). These figures have doubled since 2001 when 111,000 UAE visitors spent £139m. Yates said the increase in visitors from the UAE is due in part to the strength of the dollar pegged dirham compared to the pound. Last year the sterling traded at 7.3 to the dirham but earlier this year it fell to 5.4, and yesterday was at 5.7 to the dirham.
The Helengeli Island Resort has one of the finest house reefs, making it an ideal place for divers and snorkelers. It is located on an island with a spectacular house reef and a white sandy beach bordered by a magnificent blue lagoon. Helengeli offers a variety of culinary delights at its comfortable restaurants. The resort arranges excursions to inhabited local islands to give you the unique oppo...
Built in the foothills of Jebel Hafeet, the second tallest mountain in the UAE, is the Middle East’s first manmade white-water rafting, kayaking and surfing facility. The park has three world class kayaking channel networks, with a total length of 1,133m. It also has a surf pool capable of making 3.3 meter high waves every 90 seconds, a rope course, climbing wall and zip line, along with food a...
Address: city center, Sana'a If you are into history and culture but not really into museums, the University can offer you a more interesting alternative to walking clueless down long corridors of museum exhibits. A varied, more interactive approach to learning about the city, with a welcoming staff, a number of specialized libraries, and interesting exhibits housing mummies, handicrafts, and t...
This fascinating museum dedicated to China’s military and its history first opened in 1960. The building’s edifice is a striking example of Socialist Realism. Even before entering the museum, there’s no doubt that it’s related to the military. Outside is a row of artillery cannons and a decommissioned boat. Once you get inside, the main hall is filled with tanks, planes, and a rocket. One...