In a drive to promote global tourism, and to place emphasis on sustainable tourism, Skal International’s Dubai chapter has upgraded its website. The new site will provide up-to-date information and news on the region’s travel and tourism developments, according to Chris Anns, Skal Dubai Vice President.

Anns said that research figures estimate that the MENA region will see 52 million people online by 2008, with 50% online penetration in the UAE alone (Madar Research Group): “The UAE’s booming economy calls for a fast adoption of internet-based services and Skal Dubai want’s to be part of the online network for tourism information.”

The UAE’s internet users are projected to reach three million users by 2009, with 32% penetration in the household sector, and 45% in the business sector.

“Re-launching the website has been an exciting challenge,” he continued. “With these improvements skaldubai.org will continue to inform members and visitors to the site about the Skal’s activities locally, regionally and internationally.”

The Skal Dubai website, which has been online since January 2006, currently attracts an average of 270 users per month, a figure which continues to grow each year.

Anns will represent the emirate at the 68th Skal World Congress in the Turkish Riviera resort of Antalya later this year (November).

Skal International is a professional organization of tourism leaders around the world that promotes global tourism and friendship.