DTCM & DUBAI TRAVEL TRADE DISCUSS COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL OF TOURISM FOR THE DISABLED

5 August 2002

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) convened a meeting of the Travel and Tourism Group in Dubai today, August 5th, and discussed the potential of further increasing tourism for the disabled and methods of developing this potential to the fullest.

The meeting chaired by DTCM Deputy Director General, Hussain Ali Lootah was attended by senior DTCM officials, as well as representatives from Dubai's leading ground handlers, destination management companies, travel agents and tour operators.

“Dubai has established itself as a major international tourism destination and to preserve this image, it is essential to supervise the business and discuss industry specific issues with the private sector and thereby promote better understanding and exchange of information,” Mr. Lootah remarked.

He noted that the DTCM was committed to ensure that all travellers to Dubai experience a quality vacation in the emirate and this includes individuals with mobility impairments.

At the meeting it was highlighted that the commercial potential of disabled tourism was immense. 

Issues discussed during the meeting included further removal of physical barriers, adequate training of staff and marketing of Dubai as a city that cares.

“Dubai offers access and facilities for physically disabled persons and we do have competent tour operators who can make the travelling experience as smooth as possible by customizing facilities to accommodate disabled travelers,” Mr. Lootah stressed.

Among other issues discussed at the meeting were the current state of the tourism industry in Dubai, findings of a recent overseas tour operators survey and publicizing information on the DTCM’s website.

The DTCM through its overseas office network has been sending out the message to a niche market segment comprising of travellers with special needs that the emirate is a handicapped-friendly destination.