Singapore has boosted its status as a preferred destination for Middle East travellers following an increase in the number of regional visitors to Singapore in the first half of 2009.

Boosted by the ‘2009 Reasons to Enjoy Singapore’ campaign as well as partnerships with Emirates Holidays, Singapore Airlines and the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board amongst others, Singapore saw 52,525 visitors from the Middle East in the first 6 months of the year – a six percent increase over last year’s figures.

The UAE, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait topped the list as the city-state’s leading visitor markets from the region.

“With new attractions like the 9km long Southern Ridges nature walk and concerts by top international artistes like Lady Gaga, Singapore constantly provides our new and returning regional guests with fresh and unique experiences,” said Jason Ong, area director for Middle East and Africa, Singapore Tourism Board.

September will see a host of varied events that will be a major draw for GCC travellers. From now until the end of the month, Singapore celebrates its rich Muslim roots with a range of Ramadan festivities such as night markets and cultural dances along its ethnic Malay enclaves.

A number of Ramadan packages that have been customised to meet the needs of Gulf travellers are also on offer.-TradeArabia News Service