(MENAFN Press) Huge Investments Create Differentiating Entertainment Infrastructure and Draw Visitors
Gardens by the Bay Development and River Safari Attraction Top Must-Visit List for Gulf-Based Visitors
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Singapore Tourism Board's Area Director for the Middle East and Africa, Mohamed Hafez Marican said today that he expects 'at least a ten per cent spike' in the number of Gulf visitors to the country this summer season, as large investments into entertainment infrastructure are now rapidly beginning to pay off and world-class luxury airline and hotel brands better promote themselves across the region.
Singapore has already received more than 14,000 visitors from the UAE for the first quarter of 2012, an 18 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2011.
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) forecasted 12 to 13 million visitor arrivals last year and between US 17.5 and US 19.1 billion (more than AED64 and 70.5 billion) in tourism receipts. That was an increase from record highs of 11.6 million visitor arrivals and US 14.9 billion (AED55.3 billion) in 2010.
"With all the recent investment in entertainment infrastructure, we are now offering a truly differentiated holiday experience to Gulf visitors “ a 'new' Singapore. We are optimistic that our visitor numbers from this region will increase at least by another ten per cent this summer over last year, and we are excited to show our Middle Eastern vacationers what Singapore has to offer," said Marican.
One of the most cosmopolitan melting pots in Asia, Singapore offers visitors from the Middle East quality family-friendly attractions, a refined shopping experience, a sleepless nightlife, and luxurious hotel accommodations amidst lavish flora and fauna. Many existing attractions have been renewed, while new attractions will be available to Gulf visitors who want to get away.
"We invite our visitors from the Middle East to check out the latest hotspots, like Gardens by the Bay and the River Safari, along with the many hotel developments, like Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort," said Marican. "Singapore's international society is welcoming and refreshing with its world-class accommodations, shopping and entertainment experiences."
The recently launched Gardens by the Bay are housed in the heart of Singapore's new downtown, near the Marina Bay Sands. The Gardens span an impressive 101 hectares, exhibiting garden artistry and allowing nature lovers to get up close and personal with an array of plant species from around the world. The lush garden setting is ideal for the enjoyment of local and international concerts and entertainment. While already open to the public, the Gardens will be fully opened in June 2012.
Singapore's River Safari, Asia's first river-themed wildlife park, showcases rivers of the world, highlighting the Mississippi, Congo, Nile, Ganges, Murray and Mekong Rivers. Visitors can discover the importance of conservation and see first-hand how Singapore is aiding the preservation of fragile freshwater habitats. The park is due to open in September 2012.
Working in conjunction with the Singapore Tourism Board are Singapore Airlines (SIA) and Hong-Kong-based Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, which offer Gulf visitors exceptional travel and deluxe hotel accommodations.
SIA travellers can lounge in the spaciously 60' and 64' pitched recliner seating in First Class while enjoying an extensive movie list and popular TV shows available on demand on each 10.4" screen with noise-cancelling headsets. Distinguished flyers can relish in a private haven aboard SIA's A380 aircraft in the Suites, featuring the airline's largest ever armchairs, hand-stitched by master Italian craftsmen Poltrona Frau.
Upon arriving in Singapore, vacationers can unwind in style at Shangri-La's Rasa Sentosa Resort, the only resort in Singapore with a beachfront location. After completing an S80 million makeover, the resort boasts 454 rooms, seven dining and entertainment options, a 100 square metre children's club, the Sea Sports Centre, and many swimming pools and outdoor Jacuzzis, all surrounded by a lush, natural environment.
Photo Caption: (Left to Right) Jose Thachil, Marketin Manager Gulf, Singapore Airlines; Mohamed Hafez Marican, Singapore Tourism Board's Area Director for the Middle East and Africa; Archit Nair, Regional Sales Manager, Shangri-La Hotel
