Tourism

	Wonderful world of Dubai The emirate has become one of the leading tourist destinations on the planet
		Dubai’s service and tourism-orientated boom over the past two decades has turned the emirate into one of the planet’s leading tourist destinations. Emirates Golf asked Michael Scully, Complex General Manager for the Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and the new Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, how the hotel and tourist industry is developing. “It has evolved almost immeasurably over the past five to seven years,” explains Scully. “The introduction of so many amazing new hotels, real-estate developments and attractions has enhanced the region as a business and tourist destination.”

	It seems, however, that the best is yet to come. With many other Gulf Co-operation Council destinations following suit and creating some outstanding developments of their own, Dubai is not resting on its laurels. “I heard Sheikh Mohammed say that what you see at the moment is only 10% of the overall plan for Dubai. With developments such as Dubailand, combined with the introduction of 30,000 new hotel rooms, Dubai will just continue its expansion. Combine the above with the colossal new Dubai World Central International Airport, which is under construction, and there is no reason why Dubai won’t become the centre of the western world,” says Scully. Big names are being lured to the prospect of creating an iconic hotel resort. “Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina and The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina are two of the finest hotels in the area. Of course I am biased, but for me they are luxury and quality personified. We have some great facilities and if you love life on the water, our resort is for you,” says Scully. The Emirati are renowned for their warm hospitality and you will be pushed to find a destination with better golfing facilities. “Golf has played a tremendous part in attracting tourists,” says Scully. “It starts at the very highest level of the game with the Dubai Desert Classic and that has benefited the region by attracting the most famous players to come over.

	We all know how popular golf is within business and, given the fantastic courses on offer, we have seen a significant increase in the number of corporate events that now take place.” Dubai’s diversity means that visitors can enjoy a whole range of experiences, aside from golf. “I would recommend that you are based around a beach and take advantage of the excellent watersports, as well as the extensive shoreline and the clear, warm waters of the Gulf,” says Scully. “Also, no trip would be complete without experiencing the desert trips and the desert activities that are available. Dune bashing is a thrilling option, but not one for the faint hearted!”