95% of investors support Dubai's Expo 2020 bid
The vast majority (95 per cent) of investors support Dubai's bid for Expo 2020, according to a recent survey.
A study of 215 professionals by CFA Society Emirates found a further 97 per cent believe Dubai will win the right to host the event.
Over half (56 per cent) think such a result should have a positive influence over stock market prices. In terms of market prices, 19 per cent expect a significant change, while 27 per cent predict a more selective impact will be seen.
Overall, 76 per cent of investors forecast a strong boost for the real estate sector, with 11 per cent stating a limited influence over market values. Nonetheless, if Dubai does become the host of Expo 2020, the hotel and hospitality sector will be in demand and, as such, the argument for investment at this stage can easily be made.
President of CFA Society Emirates Amer Khansaheb said: 'Investment professionals in the UAE are very supportive of Dubai's bid for Expo 2020 and nearly unanimous is their belief that Dubai will win the bid.
'CFA charterholders believe more government regulation and easier procedures for starting new businesses in the UAE would potentially help protect the economy from excessive speculation.'
Mr Khansaheb said, if Dubai wins, real estate, the stock market and foreign investment sectors will all benefit.
The hotel industry, for example, is ideal for investors, with the likes of The First Group offering effective ways to get a foot into the lucrative market.
Earlier this month, Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing stated 7.9 million people visited the city in the first nine months of the year, a figure 9.8 per cent higher than the same period in 2012.
This growth is also part of the sheikhdom's Vision 2020 target of attracting 20 million people a year. Of course, this is the same year Dubai could be hosting the expo, which is predicted to draw in significant numbers by itself - many expect such an event in Dubai would be the first time the majority of attendees are not from the host country.