Dubai will become one of the world’s top global travel markets, according to executives with British luxury airline, Silverjet.

Currently, more than 400,000 business-class passengers fly between the UK and UAE each year.  But this number is set to grow substantially, with the completion and opening of several of Dubai’s landmark attractions, from luxury hotel accommodation on the Palm Dubai to the opening of the Ernie Els-designed golf course at Dubai Sports City, Silverjet said.

Silverjet opened its Dubai - London route on November 19, and it is the first commercial airline to make use of Dubai’s Executive Terminal.

In 2008, Silverjet expects a significant increase in its own growth, in line with Dubai’s rapidly growing popularity as the Middle East’s hub for tourism and business.

“We expect Dubai to continue to grow dramatically in 2008, and that means more travellers flying to and from the UK. Already in 2007, we have met or exceeded our sales, marketing, and operational goals,” said Katherine Gershon, vice president of sales and marketing, Silverjet.

Another huge success for Silverjet was its participation at the 2007 Dubai Air Show, a major industry event that gathered 900 exhibitors from 50 countries.  Silverjet celebrated its sales and marketing tie-up with Dnata at the event.

The British airline also recently announced its innovative loyalty scheme – ‘The Silverjet Set’ – and it expects 2008 growth of the programme to be substantial, as companies continue to demonstrate interest through increased numbers of company registrations.

“It has been a remarkable year for Silverjet, but 2008 is set to be even bigger and better,” said Gershon. “Our unique services, offering the comfort and luxury of a private jet at a fraction of the price, have proven a success with a growing number of discerning travelers who expect more from their airline experience.” – TradeArabia News Service