Kenya witnesses 89.6% increase from UAE
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Recent statistics released by the Kenya Tourist Board (KTB) show for the first eight months of 2012 an increase of 89.6% in arrivals from UAE compared to 2011.
This makes the UAE the fastest growing inbound market for Kenya. Between January and August 2012, visitor arrivals to Kenya from the UAE numbered 26,574 compared to 14,019 in 2011.
Overall, Kenya received over 800,000 arrivals from January to August in 2012, with the United Kingdom being the top source market followed by the United States. Speaking on the performance of the market, Kenya Tourism Board regional marketing manager John Chirchir said: “The growth is a confirmation of popularity of Kenya as a tourist destination among residents of UAE. KTB recognizes the importance of the Middle East as an emerging market and continues to promote the destination to families, honeymooners, young adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts and school groups.”
He further added: “We shall continue to launch initiatives that support our objective of enhancing tourism from this region. We have also streamlined our entry processes and access into Kenya which has been made easier with most nationalities, including all GCC nationals receiving visas on arrival. In addition, the Kenyan Government does not require visitors to take any vaccinations prior to entering the country.”