Americans may not consider the Middle East a vacation hot spot, but luxury tourism is flourishing in the Persian Gulf region. The second annual Middle East Leisure Real Estate Symposium just concluded in Dubai, vacation mecca of the Middle Eastern elite. Hosted by timeshare giants Group RCI and NorthCourseSM Leisure Real Estate Solutions, the symposium gave Middle Eastern developers a master class in leisure site development with "access to some of the best brains in the business," said Claude Attala, Managing Director of NorthCourse's Dubai division.
The timeshare and fractional ownership industries in the Persian Gulf region are expected to surge over the next decade, bringing in revenues of $1.2 billion. Recent research shows that 68% of Persian Gulf nationals are interested in purchasing timeshares or fractional ownerships.
Diamond of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is perhaps the most elite tourist destination on the Persian Gulf. Once the unassuming home of Bedouin traders, the modern gem is an eclectic and exciting mix of the new and old. Its ultramodern skyscrapers thrusting into the clear blue Gulf sky, Dubai's storied beaches and throbbing nightlife beckon the rich and chic of the Middle East, Africa, India and an increasing number of Europeans. Westerners will feel at home in the modern city where English is as easily spoken as Arabic.
Drawn by Dubai's renowned tax-free shopping, tourists browse chic shops of all kinds from high couture fashions to high-end electronics. The pristine beaches and clear turquoise water of the Persian Gulf make Dubai a top water-sport destination and world-class diving center. At the Nad al Sheba racetrack you can bet on camel races by day and sleek thoroughbreds at night. More than 400 restaurants showcase Dubai's ethnic diversity. Gorgeous golf courses, beautiful beaches, premium shopping, exciting nightlife, pampering spas and fascinating historic sites provide tourists with endless choices in Dubai.
Shown at top right is Dubai's famous Palm Island, home of the exclusive Royal Club at Palm-Jumeirah, a premium timeshare destination.
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