Dubai receives Irish recognition

The director of the UK office of Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce has welcomed news that the emirate has been voted as the best destination for the Middle East and Africa.

Ian Scott said that he was "delighted" with the recognition from the Irish Travel and Trade News Awards, noting that the win "reflects Dubai's position as one of the world's leading destinations".

"Dubai's evolution from a small port to the global hub it is today has been successfully achieved by the pioneering vision of its leaders and its impressive diversification into new sectors," he remarked, adding that the emirate offers a range of attractions for men, women, couples and families.

The award may help raise the profile of Dubai in Ireland, something that could benefit overseas property investors based in the UK.

However, the news comes as the property sector in the emirate is facing difficulty, with Dubai Waterfront Properties noting that rental prices have dropped by a third in the last two months due to oversupply.