Half million people visited the Yas Island in Abu Dhabi during the Eid Al Fitr festive period, according to Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi).

The figures say a record number of 500,000 visitors have spent their Eid on the island, which has offered a wide range of festivities for the visitors. Hotel occupancy of the Island saw an 11 per cent increase from last year with many three and four star properties seeing occupancy rates in excess of 90 per cent, higher than the seasonal average.

"We are delighted with the success of the Eid Al Fitr 2017 celebrations across the emirate which has seen many of our leading hotels achieve near full occupancy as tourists from across the region chose Abu Dhabi as the place to spend their holiday," said Saif Saeed Ghobash, director general of TCA, Abu Dhabi.

"The wide range of special offers, activities and diverse entertainment across the UAE capital proved extremely popular, with shoppers flocking to enjoy promotions at many of the emirate's malls, attractions and resorts."

A wide range of activities were held and rewards offered over the course of the holiday period, which saw over 1,700 guests enjoyed the stunning fireworks of Yas Marina. Additionally, the first 24 hours of Eid saw an unprecedented 250,000 shoppers browse through the sales racks at Yas Mall.

"With every passing year, we strive to raise the bar even higher, by working alongside our valued partners to continuously set new goals for Yas Island as a globally renowned destination of choice," said Mohammad Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral.

"To our delight, island visitation surpassed all expectations during Eid Al Fitr. We look forward to welcoming, even more, people this summer season with the ongoing annual 'Say Yas' campaign."

According to TCA Abu Dhabi, the Yas Island is poised to welcome more international tourists from a number of countries including Russia, India, China and across the GCC.

Source: Khaleej Times