There has been a 23 percent increase in the number of Saudis visiting Singapore in the first quarter of 2009, said Jason Ong, Area Director for Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Singapore continues to attract record numbers of tourists from countries in the Middle East. Around 30,000 visitors from Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries arrived in the first quarter of 2009, which represents a five percent increase over last year. “We are pleased to have begun 2009 on a strong note despite the economic downturn affecting the global tourism industry,” said Ong. Saudi Arabia, followed by the UAE, remained the key markets for Singapore tourism, he said, adding that there was a 10 percent increase in UAE tourists to Singapore compared to last year. “With great-value promotions on offer and new attractions coming on stream, people traveling to Singapore from countries in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, will continue to be greeted with unique and exciting experiences throughout the year,” added Ong. Known as a family-friendly and cosmopolitan destination, he said the launch of the ‘2009 Reasons to Enjoy Singapore' campaign further enhanced the country's tourism offers, which positioned Singapore as a vibrant, value for money destination. He said the coming summer holidays will offer visitors from the Middle East an opportunity to stroll down Orchard Road, which was recently given a multi-million dollar upgrade, to view the bargains on offer at the Great Singapore Sale. Visitors can also engage in Singapore delights with the free Singapore Food Sampler during the Singapore Food Festival. Ong said the Singapore Tourism Board has been engaged in building the country's tourism industry to become an important driver of the nation's economy. The STB aims to differentiate and market Singapore as a must-visit destination offering enriching experiences through the “Uniquely Singapore” brand. He said a record number of visitors from Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries chose Singapore as a tourist destination because the STB's rejuvenated tourism products and value-for-money offers made Singapore a top choice for visitors from the Gulf.
