Dublin has been designated a city of literature by the cultural arm of the United Nations, UNESCO, making it the fourth city worldwide to receive the award. The title, which was bestowed on Dublin by UNESCO director general Irina Bokova, adds another string to the bow of Tourism Ireland as it promotes Ireland as a tourism destination in the GCC. In a statement, the Irish Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport, Mary Hanafin welcomed the great honour, saying "Dublin has been awarded this accolade because of the rich historical literary past of the city, the vibrant contemporary literature, the variety of festivals and attractions available and because it is the birthplace and home of literary greats.
"Names such as Swift, O'Casey, Wilde, Shaw, Behan, Beckett and Joyce are synonymous with Dublin and there are reminders of their great literary works throughout the city - which captures both scholars' and tourists' imaginations when they visit the city.
She concluded: "Being one of only four cities in the world to achieve the status of UNESCO City of Literature, will enable Dublin to increase its market share of tourists and attract more people to both the city and the island of Ireland."
Aiveen Ryan, Market Manager of Tourism Ireland in the GCC, said:
"The rich culture and heritage of Ireland has long been a key attraction for visitors from the Middle East, and there are many literary and cultural festivals with readings, workshops, debates and performances for visitors to enjoy. We have found common ground in our different cultures as the tradition of storytelling has been very central in both Irish and Arabic communities.
"We hope that receiving this honour will stimulate even further interest in the GCC in exploring literary Ireland."
Previous recipients of the title UNESCO City of Literature are Edinburgh, Melbourne and Iowa City.
