Al Ain set for major tourism expansion

Tour operators, both in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and overseas, have welcomed the launch of Al Ain as a ‘new’ destination on the global tourism map, and one that will offer new potential for real desert safaris, as well as historic, sporting and spa interests.

His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, chairman of Al Ain Economic Development & Tourism Promotion Authority (AEDTPA), acknowledged that Al Ain’s offering was set to grow over the next few years, as the city builds up its tourism and hospitality infrastructure.

He said: “Al Ain’s product can complement the emirates and the region: we have strength in areas such as culture, history, heritage and natural resources, and regional and international tour operators have been quick to recognise this.

“In response, we need to put international classifications in place – and it will be implemented in the emirate of Abu Dhabi for the first time ever. In this sector, we see Al Ain as a pilot project on this, and then we can build on the procedures and manuals for the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

“We are adopting a pragmatic approach, and are thinking practically in terms of demand and what we can deliver. We are looking to reach 3,000 rooms in the next 5 years, from our current total of 750 rooms.

“Meanwhile, we are studying the feasibility of enhancing the guest-house product, as it adds to the appeal of culture and heritage, and fits well with desert and eco-tours.”

Mubarak Al Muhairi, director general of the Authority, said his team had met with representatives from many European operators at this week’s Arabian Travel Market and other major travel shows, and had been delighted with their positive response.

“While some operators knew of Al Ain, they had little in-depth knowledge of the city’s unique attractions,” he said.

“However, they were extremely interested to learn of the opportunities for oasis/mountain/desert holidays for their clients, and keen to put Al Ain in their brochures, not least to offer something new for repeat visitors to the UAE.”

With its own airport, Al Ain has potential to host charter services flying directly in to the city from Europe and other international destinations.

Al Muhairi stressed this would be beneficial for UAE-wide tourism. “In Al Ain, we offer history, oasis greenery, untouched desert, mountain views and, in the future, golf, spa and other specialist attractions,” he said.

“But, to gain a total UAE experience, itineraries could be evolved to include a visit to the capital, Abu Dhabi, with its islands and corniches; then carrying along the coast to Dubai for shopping and to see its incredible development, finishing up with a stopover in one of the smaller emirates such as Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah – before returning to Al Ain for departure.”

Locally, too, Al Muhairi said reaction to the new promotional thrust of Al Ain had been welcomed by the travel sector.

“Fast-track growth on the coast means there is pressure on space to host the most popular tourist activity – the desert safari – and in Al Ain, we have more than enough sands to spare,” he said.

“Tour operators have been approaching us to see how we can work together to develop more Al Ain products, and this is another area where the growth of our tourist infrastructure will enhance the work of other authorities in the UAE.”