May 6, 2008 - The number of hotel visitors to Dubai is projected to rise to ten million by 2010, from about seven million in 2007, according to projections released by Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM), during the inaugural of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2008, which is being held at the Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre from May 6 to 9.

The number of hotels and hotel apartments is expected to increase to 488 by 2010, up from 452 in 2007. Dubai's room strength will also rise to 64,179, a dramatic increase from 51,168 room units in 2007.

"As the key driver in boosting tourism in Dubai, DTCM will continue to exploit the tourism potential through strategic initiatives and focused policies," said Mr. Khalid Ahmed bin Sulayem, DTCM Director General. "We are on track to move Dubai up the ladder on the global tourism map, and continue to provide direction to consolidate the emirate's position as the tourism hub not just of the region but of the world."

DTCM is highlighting its achievements and future plans at its largest-ever showing at the 15th edition of Arabian Travel Market at the Dubai stand spread over an area of 1,080 square meters, with 132 co-participants and 90 booths.

"The visionary and iconic projects currently underway in Dubai are guaranteed to surpass our estimates for tourism growth by 2010. The next three years will see the most dramatic developments in tourism projects in Dubai, and DTCM is poised to play a crucial role in ensuring that Dubai continues to a front-runner in the region's moves to attract tourists from around the globe," said Mr. Bin Sulayem.

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