Dubai continues to attract visitors

Owners of rental property in Dubai could be buoyed by the emirate's recent success as a short-break holiday destination.

Research by Mintel shows a 46 per cent growth in the market in the United Arab Emirates, with an estimated 8,500 short break visits in 2007, according to AME Info.

Ian Scott, director of the UK and Ireland representative office of Dubai tourism and commerce marketing, said the emirate's pioneering new developments made it a favourite for shoppers and holidaymakers.

'Dubai is becoming the city-break destination of choice, particularly for couples seeking an alternative to more traditional destinations such as New York and Paris," he claimed.

Mr Scott highlighted the emirate's ability to cater to all tastes as another major reason behind its success, with a string of top-class shopping facilities, restaurants and leisure attractions on offer.

The figures come after Dubai officials revealed last week that they were working on plans to maintain the emirate's attraction to tourists in the face of the global economic crisis.