Khaleej Times: Khaleej Times

Dubai Named Region’s Top Destination

Zoe Sinclair

6 May 2009

DUBAI — Strategies pushed through by an innovative travel industry saw the UAE pick up a swathe of awards at the World Travel Awards held on Tuesday night at The Monarch Dubai.

The Middle East’s travel elite gathered in the city for what is considered the industry’s highest accolade, likened to the travel industry’s Oscars.

Dubai was in winning form being awarded as Middle East’s Leading Destination and is now going forward with confidence to the finals of the World Travel Awards in Jamaica on October 30. “Dubai is spearheading the globe when it comes to luxury travel, world-class service and innovative tourism products. Its offerings are setting the benchmark for the industry worldwide, so it is fitting that we will host our Middle Eastern regional ceremony here,” says Graham Cooke, President of the World Travel Awards.

Rotana Hotels, with 24 luxury properties across the region, was presented with the title of the Middle East’s Leading Hotel Brand.

Etihad Airways walked off with the prized Middle East’s Leading Airline; Middle East’s Leading First Class and also Middle East’s Leading 
Airline Website.

“It is a cautious time no doubt. The industry has its eyes open. But I am very optimistic that Middle East will come out winning,” continued Cooke. “The economic challenges will push companies to make strategic moves that will benefit them as well as their clients. I am very positive with the opportunities that lay forth for Dubai and the region. “The winners of the WTA have the chance to lead the way, pushing the boundaries in every aspect of business activity, creativity and customer satisfaction, competing at the very highest level and showing the world how 
it is done.” Dubai International Airport Terminal 3 took the title of Middle East’s Leading Airport; DNATA, Dubai was presented with the Middle East’s Leading Travel Management Company; Dubai was named the Middle East’s Leading MICE Destination; The Monarch Dubai was the Middle East’s Leading Suite for Monarch Suite; Burj Al Arab, Middle East’s Leading Hotel and Middle East’s Leading Resort was the Al Qasr at Madinat Jumeirah.