Issue 141 (May - June)

p. 39 on Wednesday 25 April 2018. His visit coincided with an announcement from Dubai Tourism which said Dubai welcomed a record 4.7 million international overnight tourists in the first quarter of this year, marking a 2 per cent year-on-year increase. Al Habtoor started his tour at the Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) stand, which incorporated a presence from Al Habtoor Group assets, including The Habtoor Grand Resort, The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, and La Perle by Dragone. Al Habtoor said, “Dubai continues to attract record numbers of tourists. In addition, we are seeing an increased number of visitors exploring the other Emirates. We are fortunate that the country continues to grow and evolve thanks to visionary leadership, and the emphasis on sports, the arts and culture. The Al Habtoor Group has been part of that development with the introduction of the Al Habtoor Polo Resort & Club which plays host to international events, and La Perle by Dragone at Al Habtoor City, which has brought world- class entertainment to Dubai attracting visitors from near and far.” He added, “The addition of Dubai Opera and Le Louvre in Abu Dhabi help provide visitors and resident with a diverse range of offerings.” The Chairman paid particular attention to UAE interests at the annual ATM. He also visited the Emirates airline and Etihad Airways stands, where he praised the world-class UAE flag carriers for setting a benchmark for other global airlines. At the Abu Dhabi stand he said he was pleased to see a big Emirati representation with products like local dates and Al Mandoos, which produces handmade leather sandals. He said, “Companies like this, not only embody our culture, but also help contribute to the UAE economy.” Al Habtoor said that the ATM is a great platform to showcase the best of what Dubai and the UAE has to offer, and that it also helps promote international companies doing business in the Emirates, especially in the healthcare sector. “It is good to see an increased presence from international firms and healthcare providers like Cleveland Hospital, which is now in Abu Dhabi providing world-class service standards and offering a wide range of amenities.”