Sunday, February 8: Dubai: Virtually undaunted by the global economic crisis and the armed conflict in the island nation, the number of Middle East travellers visiting Sri Lanka has surged by 24 per cent.

Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau (SLTPB)’s Middle East Office has said that the number of tourists from this region has registered a remarkable growth last year despite global meltdown and descending tourism industry worldwide.

"The year 2008 has been one of promising growth, driven by heightened consumer awareness in the Middle East, and the growing desire for culture and adventure among regional travellers," said Heba Al Ghais Al Mansoori, Director of SLTPB, Middle East.

The Arab world, including UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Lebanon and Iran, forms a group of countries with strongest tourism potential. "Sri Lanka’s tourism industry is anticipated to make rapid strides, owing to increased travels related to wellness and spas, culture and adventure purposes," Al Mansoori said.

"Declining costs of travel, changing lifestyle patterns, consumer friendly travel facilities and good child care and maid facilities for the Arabs travelling with families have been key growth drivers," she observed. (The Hindu)