Chinese tourists head to UAE for Chinese New Year

The UAE has welcomed an influx of Chinese tourists who opted to celebrate the Chinese New Year in the region.

Michelle Chen, Deputy General Manager, Hunter International Tourism, was quoted in eTurbo News as having said that about 2,500 Chinese visitors have come to the UAE through their travel agency to celebrate the Lunar New Year or attend conferences.

The Chinese tourists have taken advantage of the cheap hotel rates and discounted tax-free luxury goods particularly at the Dubai Shopping Festival which runs until February 20.

The UAE has enjoyed a substantial increase in Chinese tourists since autumn of 2009 when the country has been granted “approved destination” status by the Chinese Government to have tourist groups come through the region.