Dubai is dangling more than $800 in discounts to residents who convince friends and family to visit the emirate, officials announced on Wednesday. The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism launched the "A Dubai Invite" programme to turn locals into city ambassadors, according to the media office.
The scheme runs through October 31 and comes as months of regional conflict have hammered the tourism sector. Residents can nominate visitors on the government website to unlock benefits worth over 3,000 dirhams ($816), covering hotel stays, meals, attraction entry and more.
Dubai typically struggles during summer months, when desert temperatures soar to 50 degrees Celsius. The incentive programme offers a lifeline during this slow season.
The emirate normally welcomes 19.5 million tourists yearly and holds a reputation as a luxury destination for the world's elite. That image took a battering in February when regional conflict erupted, shattering the Gulf's reputation for stability.
Iran unleashed missiles and drones at the UAE, striking hotels across the Palm development and the iconic Burj Al Arab resort. Tourists fled during what should have been the peak season.
A ceasefire took hold on April 8, and some visitors have since returned, industry sources told AFP. But hotels are now banking heavily on local guests to fill rooms.
The government responded in May by approving a $400 million economic relief package for struggling businesses. It included municipal fee waivers for hotels and restaurants, reduced penalties for customs breaches and lower civil aviation charges.
An earlier relief effort in late March had already injected over $270 million into the economy to support businesses and families. Officials have continued rolling out measures to restore confidence in Dubai as a tourist hub.
