Price water house Coopers (PwC) has forecast that the UAE’s leisure and entertainment (L&E) market potential will reach 45 million visitors by 2021, with international tourists accounting for 30 million, while residents and friends and relatives of residents total a further 15 million.

PwC also believes that theme parks in the pipeline will attract 18 million visits. According to PwC’s report ‘UAE’s transformation into a world-class leisure and entertainment destination’, the country can become a world-class leisure and entertainment destination to rival cities such as Orlando, Singapore and Hong Kong if it takes a holistic approach to exploit its geographical location, high quality attractions and investment in infrastructure.

“The UAE has come a long way to realise its global ambition of becoming a leisure and entertainment hub, and rival Orlando, which is the current market leader. The country has recognised that it needs to continue investment and focus on the quality of attractions, as well as appeal to a diverse visitor base from across the world. Coordination between the emirates is essential for success,” said Philip Shepherd, partner, PwC Middle East Hospitality and Leisure Leader. Details