Outbound travel from the UAE to the Principality of Monaco, the Mediterranean city-state off the south-east coast of France, has shown a 45% increase year-to-date, President of the Monaco Government Tourist and Convention Authority Michel Bouquier said at a press briefing held on November 1 at Raffles Dubai.
Bouquier is in the UAE to launch the Monaco Private Label concept in Dubai and Abu Dhabi – the first time this exclusive invitation-only program comes to the Middle East. The two Monaco Private Label gala dinners will be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in the same week as a travel trade show is held in Dubai for agents and partners from across the UAE.
"Interest in Monaco's unique attractions has been growing significantly over the last few years, and the past year in particular has seen a phenomenal increase in outbound travel from the UAE," said Bouquier. "We are here to reaffirm the value we place on our relationship with our most loyal visitors. Bringing the Monaco Private Label concept to the UAE will help us develop the sort of personal relationships that help build long-term ties to a destination."
Perched between French medieval villages and the ski trails of the Alps, with a year-long calendar of activities that celebrate a passion for the arts, culture, outstanding cuisine, spa therapies and high-end leisure pursuits such as the Formula One Grand Prix, casino gaming, luxury yachting and exciting nightlife, there's little wonder the tiny Mediterranean jewel enjoys pride of place among UAE high-net-worth travellers.
The rebound in the economy and travel at the start of 2010 and a growing recognition of the glamourous attractions, accessibility and affordability of the destination was reflected in UAE visitor statistics – in the first nine months of 2010, more travelers visited Monaco from the UAE than in the whole of 2009. This trend was also reflected in an increase in uptake of room nights among UAE travelers for this year, which grew by 34% year-to-date.
"The fact that Monaco is definitely a firm-stay on the radar of every well-travelled HNWI in the UAE led us to bring the Monaco Private Label concept to the region this year," said Bouquier. "To date, this invitation-only program includes a privileged selection of 300 members from all across the world. As a connoisseur of luxury, this year 20 individuals from the UAE will receive their personal keys to Monaco – becoming the program's first members from the Middle East."
Monaco Private Label members enjoy a lifetime of privileged access to the many charms of the beautiful Mediterranean city-state. From unforgettable gastronomic experiences with world-famous chefs and box seats at the Opera House or F1 Grand Prix, to private shopping services and trunk shows at luxury boutiques, guaranteed tee time at members-only golf courses, and the personal attention of Monaco government and tourism officials during their visit, the Monaco Private Label program lets members live the unique experience of Monaco at a level of elegance that money cannot buy.
The Private Label Gala Dinners will be held in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A tradeshow for the travel trade industry is also being held on the sidelines of the exclusive event, on November 1 at Raffles Dubai. The Monaco Government Tourist and Convention Authority expects to highlight the many attractions of the Principality to trade partners at the show, strengthen existing relations and build new ones.
