Cyprus Tourism Organisation plans roadshows to promote destination in the Middle East

The roadshow will cover Dubai and Abu Dhabi and is designed to further develop the time-tested business and travel links that exist between the two regions. The fact that Cyprus is growing increasingly popular as a leisure, incentive and business destination for the Arab world is borne out by the 7 per cent increase in the number of tourists from the region in 2012.

The roadshow will be followed by a reinforced presence of the Cypriot team at the upcoming Gulf Incentive Business Travel and Meetings exhibition (GIBTM) being held in Abu Dhabi from March 25 to 27. Cyprus Tourism Organisation views Abu Dhabi and Dubai as valuable source cities for the inbound tourist trade from the region and intends to highlight the inherent advantages of Cyprus.

"Lying in the sparkling blue waters of the Eastern Mediterranean and at the crossroads between Europe, Africa and Asia, Cyprus has always had an important strategic position throughout history. Nowadays, as the Eastern-most member of the European Union, the island is a perfect meeting place for decision-makers from all over the world," said Vassilis Theocharides, Director CTO Middle East & Arabian Gulf Office.

He noted that an ideal all year round climate, beautiful scenery, traditionally hospitable people and a civilization that goes back 10,000 years help boost the island's attractiveness. "For meetings, conventions, incentives or other corporate events Cyprus is ideally placed having hosted meetings of heads of government in the past and with over 600 top companies and organizations holding conferences here every year, Cyprus has all the facilities that even the most valued VIPs would need. With a reputation for quality and professionalism, as well as top class facilities and service, you'll find there's no more distinctive venue than Cyprus," Mr. Theocharides added.

Cyprus is just a short flight away (three and a half hours) from most Arab cities and the island, though small in size, is big in variety, and offers a range of climate types. The history and culture of the island's ancient civilization is an even greater plus point.

On the social side too, Cyprus offers corporate event organizers a stable economy and a safe and secure European country that respects law and order.

The CTO invites all UAE travel agents to interact on a one-one basis with the Cypriot DMC's, travel agents and hoteliers in order to prepare for the upcoming season. UAE travel agents can visit CTO's partners at the following venues: JW Marriot Marquis (Dubai) - March 24 (9 am to 11 am); Millennium Hotel (Abu Dhabi) - March 24 (6 pm to 8pm).