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14 licensed desert safari operators, clarifies DTCM

DUBAI — The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) clarified yesterday that it has licensed 14 desert safari tour operators in the emirate and not 10 as reported earlier.

In a note sent to Khaleej Times, a DTCM source notified that an additional four overland tourist safari companies had made their list, namely Arabian Adventures, North Tours, Desert Rangers and Gulf Ventures.

The source admitted that the names of the four companies had been "inadvertently missed" in the circular sent earlier to hotels and tour operators in the emirate.

A clarification was requested by the department with a view to "avoid public confusion and trade misunderstanding". Likewise, to update the general public, the DTCM has posted an updated list of licensed desert safari tour companies on their web site, www.dubaitourism.ae.

It may be recalled that a report appearing in Khaleej Times on Tuesday had mentioned that the DTCM had imposed more stringent measures to ensure the safety and security of those undertaking desert safari tours.

Launched as early as 2002, the DTCM policy has sought to standardise the operations of tour companies, particularly with regard to hygiene and sanitation, beside passenger safety and insurance amenities.

Industry sources indicate that there are more than 300 desert safari tour companies currently operating in the emirate, most of which conduct their businesses without the necessary licence, sufficient facilities, personnel trained in first aid or even proper food handling techniques.