Hamdan bin Mohammed issues resolution to introduce \'Tourism Dirham\'

Dubai's Burj Khalifa The Government of Dubai Media Office- Dubai - HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council, has issued the Council's resolution No. (2) of 2014, regarding the introduction of the "Tourism Dirham".
The Tourism Dirham is a minimal charge to be applied to guests staying in all genres and rating of holiday accommodation including hotels; hotel apartments; guesthouses; and holiday homes. The move is based on global benchmarking and funds raised will support the international promotion and marketing of the Emirate and drive growth of its tourism and trade industries. This minimal charge will vary between seven to 20 Dirhams per room, per night, dependent on the hotel category and rating, and will be applicable from March 31st 2014.
The measure will help strengthen Dubai's position as a leading tourist destination, bringing the Emirate in line with international industry standards. Such tourism fees are charged in several leading tourist destinations around the world.
Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai's Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, commented: "The introduction of the Tourism Dirham will support "Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing", helping to ensure our continued competitiveness on the global stage which will be reflected positively on the growth of two of our economic pillars - trade and tourism.
The establishment of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing was announced on 26th January 2014. The new Corporation is an affiliate of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and will focus on the international promotion and marketing of Dubai. Areas of responsibility of DTCM include the planning, development, supervision and regulation of the tourism industry.
Source: WAM