Singapore Targets Middle East Shoppers

May 05, 05 | 7:48 am

Special Travel Packages in Development for Travellers from the Region 

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is stepping up its efforts this year to attract more visitors from the Middle East to the “Great Singapore Sale”, the eight-week festival which runs from 27 May to 24 July 2005.  

The Middle East has been identified as one of the key emerging markets for tourism to Singapore. As a special incentive to attract tourists from these countries, the STB will be developing dedicated travel packages with local travel agents, which include flights, accommodation, and incentives.  

“The Great Singapore Sale” has become a major tourist attraction within Asia, providing as much as 70 percent reductions on items from fashion to food and electronics to jewelry, in addition to presenting visitors the chance to win cash and prizes. About 1.5 million visitors traveled to Singapore in June and July 2004, when the event was last held.  

“Shopping is one of the major recreational activities of the Middle East, and – because the Great Singapore Sale is supported by retailers across the Island – this event offers a unique experience for Middle East tourists,” said Alan Tan, area director, Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.  

In addition to the bargains on offer, the Great Singapore Sale occurs at the peak of summer tourist season, as travelers from around the world travel to Singapore for its attractive climate and beautiful  

“This year, we are making dedicated “Great Singapore Sale” travel packages for Middle East travelers available, which include air fare, accommodation, shopping deals, food and beverage incentives, and spa promotions, and are anticipating strong demand across the target countries,” added Tan.  

“We have a range of special services for travelers from the Arab world, in addition to a number of attractions that have proven very popular, including Arab Street, one of Asia’s most beautiful Muslim enclaves,” he concluded.   

Other attractions during the event include the Singapore Showcase, featuring the latest products inspired and created in Singapore, and the Great Singapore Shopping Challenge, where the bargain hunters are rewarded with a number of prizes.  

Running parallel with the event are the Singapore Food Festival and Singapore Arts Festival, which supports a range of music, theatre and dance activities.  

Photo caption: Singapore at night – one of the most beautiful cities in Southeast Asia.    

About Singapore Tourism Board

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is an economic development agency for one of Singapore's key service sectors - tourism. The mission of the Board is to develop and champion tourism, so as to build the sector into a key driver of economic growth for Singapore. 

With its strategic tourism units covering the key purposes of visit by tourists, the STB will work towards revitalising traditional segments ranging from sightseeing and attractions to business travel, as well as actively tap into emerging segments such as healthcare and education services. 

These initiatives will be reinforced by STB's international operations which cover the key markets in Asia, Oceania, Europe and Americas, with expanded resources to capitalise on growth markets like China and India. 

STB's goal is to create exciting and innovative experiences for our visitors, in close partnership with the trade industry, thus etching forever in visitors' minds an image of Singapore as a unique and compelling destination.