Sun International, a leading tourism and leisure group in South Africa, said it has roped in Dubai-based Tourism Point to manage its marketing and public relations communications in the Middle East region.

"Sun International is delighted to have a full time representation for the Middle East market based in Dubai, which underlines our commitment to the region," said Ian Anderson, Sun International's marketing director.

"We have identified the Middle East as an emerging market due to its exceptionally strong potential evidenced by the increase of visitors to our properties. So far, majority of the visitors from Middle East to Sun’s hotels and resorts comprise of FITs, MICE and family travelers."

"This business is secured through tactical marketing campaigns, trade partners and through the airlines operating from the region," he stated.

According to Anderson, Sun's focus is to boost its Mice, FIT and Family Leisure travel sector from the Middle East.

"And we are glad to have secured the talents and experience of Tourism Point who will be instrumental in driving business to our properties," he remarked.

Sun has also appointed a marketing manager to look after its business interests in the region, who will be responsible for executing focused and targeted marketing strategies that will comprehensively promote Sun brand and properties to all segments and regions.

A resort hotel chain from South Africa, Sun International brand operations include resorts, luxury hotel products, and casinos, across 21 destinations in eight countries, including the Sun City benchmark.

The most renowned resort is Sun City with its 1301 rooms and conference facilities for up to 1200 people.

Also popular with the Middle East market is the Table Bay Hotel set in the heart of the Victoria and Albert Waterfront in Cape Town which has meeting facilities to cater to 250 people.-TradeArabia News Service