ME tourists list London as favourite destination

London claims the top spot among five most popular destinations for travellers from the Middle East, followed by New York, Washington, Toronto and Houston, a British Airways report said.

The report highlights the connection Middle Eastern travellers have with North America, where they travel not just for business or holiday, but to see family and friends, and further their education.
Paolo De Renzis, regional commercial manager, Middle East said: “London will always be included in this list because it is the home of British Airways, as well as an incredibly popular destination for visitors from around the world.”
“North America, however, is also a favourite with our passengers and not just for vacation. Many people from the Middle East have family in Canada and the US, while many also choose these two countries for the quality of education they offer.
“British Airways offers well-timed connections to North America through London Heathrow’s Terminal 5 with attractive fares to cities in Canada and the US. In addition, passengers are able to break the journey in London and discover the best the city has to offer.” Over the next five years, British Airways will be investing more than GBP5 billion in new aircraft, smarter cabins, elegant lounges and new technologies to make like more comfortable in the air and on the ground, the airline said in a statement.
The airline has invested GBP100 million in the new First Class cabin that is now fitted on more than 75 per cent of its long-haul fleet, it added.