Dubai will retain its status in 2015 as the most popular travel destination for the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region as it offers the combination of relaxation, discovery and adventure that travellers are looking for, a recent report showed.

Dubai was voted the favourite upscale destination in the region in a survey conducted by internet-based market research agency YouGov, with four out of five luxury travellers citing relaxation as the most important element in a luxury holiday, followed by interest in discovery (58 per cent) and adventure (43 per cent).

A separate survey from American Express showed that 33 per cent of respondents in the UAE expect to spend more on luxury goods and services in 2015, with 59 per cent prioritising luxury experiences, including holidays.

“For 2015, we firmly believe that Dubai will retain its status as the most popular luxury destination in the region. Dubai is a truly unique experience, combining old-world charm with the attractions of a modern city. Travellers want to come to a destination that is both uplifting and enriching and where they can make the most of their stay,” said Stephan Vanden Auweele, general manager of Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers.

Sheraton Dubai Creek Hotel & Towers, which has been extending warm hospitality to residents and travellers for the past 36 years, is situated within the iconic Dubai Creek area.

The Creek is home to some of the oldest buildings in the city, including Dubai Museum, located in Al Fahidi Fort, which was built in 1787 and is the oldest existing building in Dubai. The Dubai Dhow Wharfage area is still in active use today, and visitors can also explore the nearby spice and gold souks.

Furthermore, respondents of the YouGov survey highlighted the key aspects they sought from their hotel upon arrival which included a good view from their bedroom and fine dining restaurants. Popular activities included visiting museums and cultural exhibitions, shopping in malls and traditional markets, sightseeing and going to the beach, all of which are on hand for guests at Sheraton Dubai Creek.

Vivaldi by Alfredo Russo, the hotel’s premier Italian restaurant, offers breath-taking views of the historic Dubai Creek. Other exquisite dining experiences in the hotel include Ashiana by Vineet, where famed Vineet Bhatia’s culinary team offers diners a taste of India, as well as Creekside Japanese Restaurant – the hotel’s theatrical Asian restaurant.

Sheraton Dubai Creek is a short drive away from some of Dubai’s leading shopping malls, including Deira City Centre, Burjuman and Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall. – TradeArabia News Service