Dubai took centre stage at this year's Arabian Travel Market (ATM), which was held from 1-4 May 2007...

Staged at Dubai World Trade Centre, ATM reinforced its position as the region's biggest travel trade exhibition showcasing tourism and travel opportunities across the globe, while also providing the world with an excellent opportunity to take note of the phenomenal pace of development in Dubai.

As the host nation, Dubai led the way, making announcements about some of the most progressive and exciting new developments in the region, highlighting its status as a globally recognised leading tourism destination.

One of the latest projects to be launched is Universal City, a pioneering 22 million sq ft development located within Dubailand. The centrepiece will be Universal Studios Dubailand, a specialised theme park, reputed to be among the world's largest covering an area of 6.5 million sq ft. The city will also include more than 400 hotels, 100 restaurants, retail outlets, commercial offices and residential compounds.

Dubai’s ‘adventurous spirit’

The launch of Universal City Dubailand highlights the emirate's adventurous spirit. Dubai's bold and inspirational leadership steers a course that ensures it is always a step ahead of the expectations of an increasingly demanding global citizen, positioning itself as a leading international destination that is driving growth within the region.

In addition to this, the Department of Civil Aviation, on behalf of Dubai International Airport, has launched its new airport concierge service 'Ahlan Arrival Assistance'. The facility will enable all passengers who pay a nominal charge to fast-track through the check-in and luggage collection processes, before they are guided to the designated meeting point. This illustrates yet another method through which Dubai strives to enhance the experiences of all its visitors.

On the hotel front there were reports from many of the leading developers about new expansion in the region in order to drive increasing demand. Sofitel described plans for a new, luxurious property - The Palace - which will be located at the heart of The Old Town Island with unobstructed views of Burj Dubai. Strongly adhering to the emirate's manifesto of excellence, it will echo similar Sofitel projects (such as the City Centre Hotel and Residence) in terms of design, facilities and service.

Groundbreaking joint venture

Established developer Nakheel, whose numerous prestigious developments include The Palm islands and The World, announced a groundbreaking joint venture with Indian hotel group Bharat Hotels. Named the Grand Fort Dubai, the £50.3 million project will showcase views across the city, including Dubai World Central airport and Jebel Ali Port.

Inspired by the ancient forts of Rajasthan, the 234 room hotel will boast a holistic spa specialising in Indian therapies including ayurvedic massage and herbal treatments.

The emirate's celebrated shopping facilities are to be further enhanced with a mega-mall - the Mirdif City Centre rivalling the Mall of the Emirates as the largest mall outside North America. This project, revealed at ATM, will be located to the east of the city, and is set to open in 2009 with 430 retail outlets (including Carrefour - the world's second largest retailer) and car park capacity for 7000 cars.

Commenting on Dubai's position, Baerbel Kirchner, director of the UK and Ireland representative office of the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing said: 'These announcements continue to reinforce Dubai's position as a leading destination with world-class facilities. And, with many more progressive projects on the way, there is no doubt that the excitement has only just begun, with visitors inspired by the diversity that Dubai has to offer.'