THE Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) Middle East Office recently participated at the Explore and Experience Travel Show organised by Al Rais Holidays in Dubai, to provide up-to-date and relevant information about the different tourism offerings in the country and disseminate multi-lingual collateral to interested individuals, families, honeymooners and adventure travellers who are seeking fun holidays for the coming summer season.

“We have witnessed a growing interest for the Philippines as a tourist destination from this region. More than a business destination, the Philippines offers a wide selection of mesmerising beaches, value-for-money shopping and thrilling nature adventure,” said Al Rais Holidays deputy managing director, Mohamed Al Rais.

Al Rais Holidays and Emirates Holidays have teamed up to roll out  special and attractive Philippine packages for the visitors of the event, highlighting the key destinations of Manila, Cebu, and Boracay.

The Philippine tourism industry continues to experience a steady increase in the visitor arrivals beginning this year. Visitor arrivals reached a record-breaking high of 411, 064 international tourists in January 2012 with the introduction of the new tourism branding campaign, “It’s more fun in the Philippines”, and the collaborative initiatives among DOT, other government entities and the private sector.

“Our partnership with Al Rais Holidays will definitely enhance the country’s exposure and visibility among the locals and expatriates in the UAE. This will be instrumental in driving more tourists from the Middle East to this archipelago of 7,1007 fun islands,” said Mohamad Masri, director of Philippine Tourism, Middle East representative office.

The Al Rais show saw major tourism boards participation from all over Europe, Asia, Middle East, GCC and Australia come collectively to promote their destinations, touristic sites special summer packages to travellers and visitors, which was held in Dubai Mall from April 19 to 21.