Organisers of the Dubai Shopping Festival are targeting a 10 per cent increase in GCC visitors this year following the response to roadshows conducted by DSF teams in key regional markets.

DSF chief operating officer Ibrahim Saleh said the forecast was based on reservations and bookings registered by hotels and tour operators from GCC families who would spend an average of three to five nights in Dubai during the festival.

"The roadshows in the GCC markets were very successful, and the travel workshops were attended by a large number of representatives from the travel trade from the respective markets," said Saleh.

"We could see heightened interest in DSF attractions and packages from the participants."

Saleh said tour operators in these markets view March as the most profitable month for their business, and they have reported a big increase in demand from GCC families keen to avail of lower fares and discounted hotel packages.

The roadshows were held last month in Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Qatar.

Representatives from participating hotels and travel agencies expressed high confidence in the roadshows and expected excellent results.

Culture on show

- Page 2