After a significant drop in the number of tourists due to the ongoing war in the Middle East, Dubai has launched a unique campaign to re-promote tourism._x000D_
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According to Arab media, under the new scheme, UAE residents will be given prizes and benefits worth up to 3,000 Emirati dirhams if they persuade their friends or relatives to visit Dubai._x000D_
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Under the “Dubai Invite” scheme introduced by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, UAE residents can nominate their friends and family living abroad._x000D_
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If a citizen’s friend or relative comes to Dubai on a tourist visa at the invitation of their friend or relative, the host will be given a special package including hotel accommodation, special discounts in restaurants, tickets to entertainment venues and other incentives._x000D_
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Under this scheme, each resident can receive benefits for a maximum of three guests, provided that the guests arrive in Dubai before October 31. However, these benefits can be availed until December._x000D_
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To benefit from this scheme, it is necessary that the person coming is not a resident of the UAE, that he/she is traveling on a valid tourist visa and that he/she can be nominated only once._x000D_
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These measures by the Dubai government have come at a time when tourism has been severely affected after the effects of tensions between the US, Israel and Iran reached the Gulf countries._x000D_
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According to reports, after missile and drone attacks carried out by Iran, Dubai International Airport and the famous Fairmont Hotel were damaged, which affected Dubai’s reputation as a safe tourist destination._x000D_
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It should be remembered that last year, Dubai had set a new record by welcoming about 20 million international tourists, but after the recent war, the situation has changed completely._x000D_
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Due to increasing security concerns over air travel, many international airlines flying to Dubai have suspended or limited their flights, while many planes have avoided passing through the airspace of the Middle East._x000D_
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As a result, the number of airlines operating at Dubai airports has significantly decreased. On the other hand, the vacancy rate in hotels has increased due to reduced bookings and many businesses have recorded a decline in revenue of more than 50%._x000D_
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Some of Dubai’s famous hotels have started renovation projects early due to low demand. The world-famous Burj Al Arab Hotel has also been announced to close for about 18 months for extensive repairs and restoration._x000D_
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In addition, many hotels and tourism organizations are also offering special offers such as discounts of up to 45% and free stays under the government’s new scheme._x000D_
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According to local media, more than 10,000 applications have been received in just 48 hours of the launch of the Dubai Invite scheme, which shows that the government has hopes of reviving tourism with this scheme.
