Hong Kong recorded 49,200 visitors from the GCC in 2015, coinciding with 2014 figures, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia remaining the key markets from the region.

“We expect a slight increase in arrivals by the end of [this year] as we are implementing a number of consumer-specific activities, as well as trade training and relationship building [programmes] throughout the year,” revealed Sammy Musa, managing director, Gulf Reps, Hong Kong Tourism Board [HKTB] representative.

Indeed, the authority sees great potential in the region as an emerging market. Accordingly, strong emphasis has been placed on working closely with the entity’s office in Dubai in order to roll out a number of promotional activities.

HKTB has also arranged various familiarisation programmes for the industry’s front-line staff in a bid to enhance their knowledge about Hong Kong. Meanwhile, the office has also been very progressive on the digital front, continually developing its Arabic language website and Facebook page.

As to what makes Hong Kong so alluring to Middle Eastern visitors, Musa pinpointed the destination’s wealth of diverse culture and lifestyle experiences – the nightlife, restaurants, shopping, natural beauty and unique cultural attractions which make it a preferred location for both business and leisure.

Chiming in, Peter Hildebrand, general manager, W Hong Kong, posited that the destination’s rich international trade background, coupled with its close proximity to China as well as its multinational image has helped to attract Middle Eastern exhibition organisers, hence, the surging volume of trade business by the concerned market in Hong Kong.