Press Affecting Brits’ Decision To Visit Dubai
Negative newspaper reports a factor in UK travellers’ decision on whether to holiday in Dubai.
Media coverage of western holidaymakers getting arrested in Dubai for breaking the emirate’s indecency laws have influenced British travellers’ decisions on whether to visit the city, a recent survey has revealed.
A report carried out by brand marketing company Insignia found that most respondents believe UK travellers take note of recent news stories before choosing or dismissing Dubai as a holiday destination.
The emirate’s indecency laws were recently in the spotlight following the imprisonment of a western man and woman for kissing in public.
Charlotte Adams, 25, and Ayman Najafi, 24, were arrested last November after an Emirati lady accused them of breaking UAE indecency laws by kissing on the mouth in a restaurant.
The couple was sentenced to one month in prison and subsequent deportation upon release following an unsuccessful appeal.
Dubai has also received negative publicity for its financial position, with the emirate’s property and construction industries in particular suffering as a result of the economic downturn.
Even so, 90 per cent of the British travel agents and tour operators involved in the Insignia Travel Intelligence Report insist negative press coverage surrounding Dubai’s economy has not affected travel bookings to the emirate.
Another finding from the report shows that of the British population, people aged between 36-45 are most attracted to Dubai. The majority visit the emirate for the weather, beaches and malls.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel is the most popular hotel for holidaymakers, while business travellers often stay at Emirates Towers.
Members of British travel association the ABTA were questioned for Insignia’s report.
And very good! We are fed up with drunk Brits behaving like animals.