Big brands 'boosting Dubai's profile'

Dubai's prominence in the world tourism industry is being consistently heightened by the number of big brands establishing a presence in the emirate, according to the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

The United Arab Emirates will be boosted over the coming years by a number of big brands opening hotels in Dubai, including Armani and Versace, while celebrities such as Brad Pitt and Boris Becker are also involved in projects in the city.

Restaurants are following a similar trend, with the likes of Gordon Ramsay and Gary Rhodes already represented in the emirate and brands including Nobu and Locatelli planning to open new establishments there.

Sports fans will soon be able to play a round of golf on a Tiger Woods-designed course in Dubai and visit the only Manchester United soccer school outside Europe.

The city also boasts more than 50 shopping malls, housing outlets ranging from high street favourites such as Debenhams and H&M to glamorous designers including Prada and Gucci.

Ian Scott, UK director of the DTCM, said: "Dubai continues to witness a year-on-year increase in visitor figures, with 2008 set to be our best year yet.

"The emirate has worked hard to establish itself as a leisure and business destination, and this broad offering means that a range of luxury brands are showcased to a diverse audience."

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