UK sees increase in Middle East tourists coming on UK visitor visas in 2011

In 2011, the UK welcomed more visitors than ever from the Middle East, according to VisitBritain, the UK's national tourist authority. Thanks to the Olympics and the Queens Diamond Jubilee taking place in the UK this year, the UK expects to welcome even more tourists from the Middle East on UK visitor visas in 2012.

The main influx of tourists is expected to take place during the 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics in London and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee in June 2012. Recent figures from VisitBritian reveal that 30.6 million visitors came to the UK in 2011, a 3 percent increase from 2010, and the strongest year since 2008. In total, 15 percent of tourists were on UK visitor visas from the "Rest of the World' region, which includes the Middle East.

"A strong contingent of Middle Eastern tourists is expected to visit Britain during the 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. With June's Diamond Jubilee and the London 2012 Festival this summer, there will be activities to suit everyone's interests and passions, providing a unique opportunity to experience Britain and British hospitality at its very best," said Carol Maddison, Manager, UAE, VisitBritain.

"Watching the Olympic games in our home country is a once in a lifetime opportunity for British UAE expats, and we look forward to joining a host of UAE nationals to celebrate a truly momentous occasion," said UAE-based British expat, Jonathon David, Chairman of the British Business Group Dubai and the Northern Emirates.

If you wish to travel to the UK for the 2012 London Olympics you can apply right away for your Visitor visa. You should apply as soon as possible so that UK immigration officials have plenty of time to process your visit visa application. You will normally then be issued with a UK visitor visa with a start date that will cover you for the whole Olympic and Paralympic Games period. Once you receive your UK visitor visa, you can then travel to the UK for the Games.

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