All Entries Tagged With: "Conference Meeting Event in ABU DHABI"

Gettys – Westin Abu Dhabi

By Tony Smyth

Nestled in the grounds of the Abu Dhabi Golf Club, the Westin Abu Dhabi Hotel is a luxury destination resort and focal point of a community that has been built in and around the sprawling fairways and greens of this championship course. Owned by Abu Dhabi-based development company, Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC), the interiors were designed by the international hospitality design firm Gettys.

The concept for the whole resort was that of creating an oasis. TDIC wanted this property to feel like a departure from some of the newer urbanized resorts in the city.

“We really wanted this to be a place of elegant yet relaxed respite,” says Meg Prendergast the project’s principal-in-charge from Gettys’ Chicago office. Being adjacent to the golf club, the developer anticipated that the hotel would be hosting and entertaining a variety of guests. Golfing enthusiasts, locals, business and pleasure travelers from around the world, as well as visiting dignitaries and major sports and arts media for events in Abu Dhabi would feel welcomed by the relaxing environment. Building on the themes of oasis and natural environment, Gettys developed the interiors to be reflective of discovery, relaxation and restoration.

The exterior of the building is clad with rough, chiseled limestone that wraps an extensive amount of the façade. Gettys continued this natural element into the interiors, creating a lobby of dynamic proportions where stone is complimented by bronze and metal screen partitions. Unexpectedly undulating and angled ceiling design also relates back to the organic nature of the property’s architecture.

“For the guest’s primary introduction to the hotel, we designed the lobby and grand staircase to feel like a continuation of the out-of-doors; walking the materials in with the guests felt like an extension of the exterior’s natural elements,” says Prendergast.

Gettys kept the lobby décor to a minimum, focusing on a simple palette. From the top of the grand staircase, crafted from hand-awled reclaimed wood and seeded glass balustrade panels, guests can look through 45 foot tall floor-to-ceiling windows out to the golf course, creating an intimacy with the greenery of the fairways, essentially creating a massive picture window.

To create this dramatic arrival experience, Gettys combined different materials and lighting that referred to the ancient history of the region. The back wall of the front and concierge desks features translucent slices of petrified wood suspended behind the embossed bronze desks. The complex circular striations of the wood fossils provide a striking visual experience as well as adding an additional layer of texture and color.

As the hotel has several grand spaces, Gettys wanted the guestroom experience to act as a form of departure from public area activity. They viewed the guest journey as a series of crafted experiences starting from departing “real life” at the hotel arrival and walking through the grandeur of the public areas to the more intimate guestroom corridors culminating in the guest rooms and suites. These corridors compress the journey to each guest’s room in terms of scale, lighting and materials which become saturated, deeply toned and restful.

“There are times, when in the Middle East it’s nice to get away from the sun and the heat; Emirati locals have known this for hundreds of years. We used that guest need as a leverage point between taking people from a very public experience to a very private experience,” says Prendergast.

Upon entering the guestroom, visitors find themselves in rooms that are light and bright with high ceilings and wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows looking out to the golf course. Gettys paid attention to the fact that all of the guestrooms and suites have golf course views’ and let the scenery be the primary focus. The team then layered different textures and tonality to create a restful guestroom experience. The resulting palette combined caramel, honey, cream and walnut, with sea blue and sunset orange accents. The overall detailing incorporated stone, custom styled wool carpeting, several complimentary wood species, and rich bronze appointments.

Guest baths feature tile surrounds made from a natural horn mosaic that infused luxury and craftsmanship into the guest bath experience. The artisanal tiles pick up on local colors of medjool date, raffia, and coconut complimented by a vanity washstand with a hand hammered nickel finish; thus giving a classic washstand look but with a modern twist.

“The suites accommodate families or guests looking for more “elbow room”,” says Anne Faherty, Senior Project Designer, “Distinct living and dining areas are fully separated from sleeping rooms and the bathrooms are upgraded to include freestanding oval stone soaking tubs with a basket weave tile surround.”

As a destination resort there was an increased need to provide guests with a variety of upscale food and beverage experiences. Gettys worked with TDIC and Westin to develop the concept and function of the all-day-dining restaurant, concentrating on a wellness and discovery based lifestyle along with a variety of experiences over the course of a guests’ stay. Whilst the restaurant looks quite contemporary the roots for its design are based on the open air dining that might be found in a town square. Gettys used some interesting details throughout the space; some of note are the Asian action station’s Chinese dim sum steamer baskets as column cladding and the Arabic station’s saffron-colored lava stone wood-burning oven. While allowing for a variety of lighting and sound options, they also developed an interpretive lighting installation for the dining areas that referred to old European street lighting, bright and sparkly during the day, dimmed and glowing for evening.

Another space pivotal to guests’ needs is the Café on the lobby floor catering to modern day coffee convenience yet also acknowledging the longstanding Middle Eastern coffee and tea culture. The Café was developed as a modern grab ‘n go coffee bar with fresh, light food offerings but with available service. The Western traveler could feel very comfortable ordering from a counter “to go” and the local guest could feel just as comfortable sitting down having a server take and deliver their order.

“The design provides this coffee and light bite venue with dining and lounge seating and a library-esque area to give people different options on how to use these spaces through the course of their visit”, says Prendergast. “It’s definitely a casual spot, but guests still feel like they are in a dramatic space with fantastic views.”

According to locals, it is the Moroccan restaurant that has garnered a lot of attention. Designed to refer to an old Moroccan home (riad) Gettys layered finishes, found objects and authentically crafted elements resulting in an eclectic vintage Moroccan feel. Gettys worked with the owner to capture Berber styled detailing. Low levels of multiply cushioned and pillowed seating areas with collections of meze tables add to its exotic appeal. In pleasant weather, the mood can cascade out onto the leisure area terrace softly illuminated with candles and captured by colorful foliage of the area. Taking elements from ancient fortresses the restaurant reflects a modern authenticity and plays homage to a rich and ancient culture.

With 20,000 square feet of function space both the operator and owner wanted to cater to the local community for a variety of social, business and conference uses. Careful planning was implemented to maximize a gracious guest experience, state of the art meeting room facilities, sensitivity to local traditions, and appropriate levels of décor for anticipated formal functions.

Pre-function floors and ceilings accented in stone and rusticated wood continue the overall natural materiality of the hotel. Textured stucco finishes combined with rusticated wood beams create an air of local style. The design team developed a softly curved pre-function feature wall which in turn gives the interior of the grand ballroom its distinctive shape.

Gettys designed the Ballroom’s main entry doors in a unique hand-carved wood design again referencing the local architecture however with a modern eye. Ballroom walls are rich with wood millwork, upholstered in a slubby faux silk and accented with layered mother-of-pearl. The ballroom looks out onto its own private green-space courtyard that bathes the room in natural daylight and gives guests an outdoor area to enjoy during their event. Muted colors throughout the function spaces include elegant shades of abalone, pearl, aubergine, and dark cocoa which work well for business functions yet are also neutral enough for more formal events requiring specialty.

“We picked up on the idea that within an oasis one expects the rewards of water,” says Prendergast. “The chandeliers look like thousands of crystal droplets which are then reflected in the carpet pattern looking like the resultant ripple effects, creating a dramatic no-repeat signature carpet design.”

As with the overall hotel, each space delivers on an authenticity of materials and detail, treating each guest to a relaxed and luxurious experience throughout their stay. “We are thrilled to bring the multiple levels of Gettys’ expertise to the design of the Westin Abu Dhabi,” said Andrew Fay, president and COO of Gettys. “It is our largest completed project to date in the Middle East. We’re most satisfied with the results of this endeavor and we’re delighted to be working on several projects within the region

New business partnerships and latest innovations mark this year’s edition of GIBTM

GIBTM facilitates further growth of regional meetings industry

This year’s Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (www.gibtm.com) saw exhibitors and buyers universally describing the show as business-focused, highly successful and the best in its six-year history. High-quality appointments, enhanced show features and the new show format made this year’s edition outstanding.

The rise in high-quality senior buyers at GIBTM 2012, especially from the Middle East and Asia, as well as a 100 percent increase in buyers from Saudi Arabia compared to last year, greatly contributed to exhibitor satisfaction. Pleased with a 17 percent increase in exhibitors from across 36 countries, Lois Hall, GIBTM Exhibitions Manager commented: “The positive feedback from exhibitors, hosted buyers and trade visitors has been incredible. The Middle East has recognised the potential in attracting meetings and events to the region and the successful two and a half days of GIBTM illustrates that there is a hunger for the meetings sector to develop at a swift pace. We are very happy to hear that exhibitors and buyers had high-quality meetings and appointments and found their participation in GIBTM to be invaluable for the development of their business – that’s what the show is all about.”

More than 270 Hosted Buyers with high spending power from across the globe attended this year’s show and 7,672 pre-scheduled appointments took place, an impressive increase of over 8% from 2011. United States Senior Hosted Buyer, Kip Horton, President of International Division at HPN Global, commented: “As this region gains prominence as a destination for group meetings and incentives, anyone planning on working there needs to be at GIBTM.”

Hosted Buyers and trade visitors attend GIBTM for many reasons but discovering the business tourism potential amongst emerging destinations is high on the agenda. Ozer Guler, Group & Conventions Specialist at Turkish Airlines said “We participated in the show to raise awareness in the Middle East and since we are growing more than 20% on a yearly basis, we need visibility on leading industry platforms. GIBTM has strong potential to grow and we’re happy to be a part of it.”

Event solutions attracted crowds at the Technology Zone as the very latest technological innovations for meetings and events were explored and demonstrated. Leading suppliers QuickMobile from the United States took centre stage to announce their strategic partnership with Eventware FZ LC to accelerate the adoption of mobile event solutions in the Middle East. Craig Tunstall, Eventware said: “As a first time exhibitor, GIBTM has been really productive – there has been a lot of interest especially from Saudi Arabia and we saw a number of high quality people with good questions. There is great potential in the Middle East market and GIBTM is the best forum for our technology – it is a springboard for launching the partnership and a brand we want to align ourselves with.”

“There definitely was a buzz and a greater energy around the show this year, with a lot more regional buyers and walk in visitors which is what we are striving to achieve. GIBTM is always successful for us and gives us a great opportunity to showcase Abu Dhabi to the hosted buyers and the global industry from the news stories that emanate from it. It is definitely the region’s ‘must attend’ business events trade show,” commented Gillian Taylor of Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority.

“I found both the programme and exhibitors of quality and would highly recommend this event to my network of peers and clients. It was my first time in Abu Dhabi and I was left in awe of the aggressive development that the city is undergoing and had achieved thus far,” added Singaporean Hosted Buyer Sapinah Itam, Regional Accounts Director at Global Cynergies.

A record-breaking number of hosted buyers and trade visitors attended a highly targeted education programme, exceeding figures from last year by 48%. Sessions held by leading association The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) attracted large numbers of professionals, with some sessions adopting a “standing only” policy to accommodate maximum capacity. Ron DiLeo, Executive Director of ACTE said, “It is a strategic decision on our part to work with Reed Travel Exhibitions and GIBTM is hugely important to us. We’ve been operating in the GCC region for five years with a strong following. There is a great atmosphere at GIBTM, you can feel it as soon as you walk in.”

Such a substantial increase in the number of seminar attendees is a testament to the growing prominence of the incentives, business travel and meetings industry within the GCC region as professionals are eager to learn about best practices, future trends and how to maximize their potential. Increasingly popular sessions continued throughout the show with GIBTM’s first ever Arabic session delivered by Ali Al Saloom of Ask-Ali.com and seminars led by world renowned industry associations ICCA and MPI.

Growth within the region emerged as a prominent theme throughout GIBTM, supported by the latest Global Meetings Industry Research report for the Gulf, Middle East and North African region, carried out by the event organisers Reed Travel Exhibitions, Sally Greenhill of The Right Solution and Rob Nicholas of Meetme. The highly anticipated report revealed that the UAE (Abu Dhabi and Dubai) is in the top ten list of countries that both Middle East and global buyers hold events in, and that event organisers are planning to increase the volume of events and their budgets for the region.

“Over 90 per cent of regional buyers predicted that their budgets will either rise or remain the same over the next 12 months, and we are seeing a much more positive attitude here compared to the global situation,” Sally Greenhill concluded.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, ADNEC, AskAli.com, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the official show daily publication.

GIBTM 2013 will take place on the 25^th-27^th March 2013.

UAE AND ARAB NATIONALS’ INVOLVEMENT IN BUSINESS TRAVEL AND MEETINGS INDUSTRY URGED

Proper education in the local language will promote better understanding of the industry; further participation of UAE and Arab nationals will bring local and regional authenticity to events 

The success of the second day at the 6^th Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM), was highlighted by a well-attended first-of-its-kind free interactive Arabic session hosted by Ali Al Saloom of the Ask Ali.com fame, where matters pertaining to the meetings industry were explained.

As the aim of the session was to educate UAE nationals and Arabic-speaking meetings professionals on the industry, the session focused on what business travel means for the UAE and the region, what possibilities it provides for the Middle East, as well as to demonstrate the value it holds for the economy.

Among the topics discussed in the session was ‘Emiratisation in tourism’ wherein the importance of UAE nationals getting more involved in the tourism industry and how being on the front line – such as speaking to guests, demonstrating Arab hospitality and becoming a main contact for travelers – would help in bringing about authentic UAE culture to the industry.

“The UAE is already a well-established tourism destination, and leisure travelers from all over the world come here to have a good time,” said Ali Al Saloom, a well-recognized industry expert and Cultural Tourism Consultant at Embrace Arabia Consultancy. “With its multicultural atmosphere, the UAE is an ideal place for people to meet and do business.

“We have outstanding venues, easy access to almost every part of the world and excellent travel infrastructure. Now, we need to focus on how to brand, market and utilise the destination with all its potential, and define and promote our unique selling point,” Ali added.

In order to do that, Ali explained that UAE nationals and other Arabic-speaking professionals have to have a better understanding of the industry and for them to actively participate in it in order to bring out the authentic local and regional culture to the global audience.

“We see the business travel sector as important but regionally, it is not yet well understood. Therefore, by explaining the industry in Arabic, we are creating awareness of the entire spectrum and its commercial potential,” Ali said.

“In order to be sustainable, we need to be authentic, in order to do so, we need the local touch and local people to be involved and visible as hosts for our international guests. Once we have strong local participation in the industry, we can then emphasise on creating unique experiences that are really ‘Made-in-the-UAE’, he added.

“We are truly amazed by the response that this new Arabic session to the educational programme has brought to the entire event,” said Lois Hall, Reed Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM. “As a groundbreaking addition at GIBTM, we wish to thank Mr. Ali Al Saloom for his invaluable contribution to the first-ever Arabic seminar in the region solely dedicated to the MICE industry.”

The continued success of GIBTM over the years and during this year’s edition has been in the amount of business and exposure that every participant and exhibitor derives out of the show.

“GIBTM is a very successful show, and we have been part of it since its inception six years ago,” said Tariq Saeed Allay, Government of Sharjah. “The first day has provided us with a great opportunity to promote Sharjah, its world class facilities and even its festivals. We had approximately 15 appointments today and have been fascinated by the Ask Ali session in Arabic.”

“The first day has been very productive with maximum attendance from our scheduled hosted buyers,” said Ahmad Shaban, InterContinental Hotels Group Jordan. “We had lots of straightforward inquiries, no shopping around, which is great. As a first time exhibitor, the show has been excellent for us so far and we are focusing on driving the MICE facilities at our hotels.”

“India witnessed a one million increase in visitor numbers in 2011 compared to 2010, and is already seeing a rise of three percent this year over last year’s quarterly figures,” said Sudhir Kumar, India Tourism. “There is a high level of interest from the Middle East, and even more so from Saudi Arabia. We have had about 20 appointments today and look forward to a successful show over all three days.”

“From day one’s response and the many inquiries, GIBTM has been very positive,” Jabbar Ibrahim, Kuwait Tourism Services said. “We are exhibiting for the first time, and from what we learned today, the show has a promising outlook and is helping promote our companies and increase their exposure.”

“We are very pleased with the outcome of GIBTM this year so far, we launched a number of exciting new initiatives, such as the Business Travel focused sessions with world the leading Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), the first ever Arabic educational session, a cutting-edge Technology Zone, a European Pavilion and the GIBTM mobile app from market leader ShowGizmo. We have received positive feedback from exhibitors, visitors and hosted buyers so far,” concluded Lois.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, ADNEC, AskAli.com, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the official show daily publication.

Opening Ceremony sets the 6th edition of GIBTM in motion

Today’s Opening Ceremony marks the beginning of GIBTM 2012 (www.gibtm.com), the largest gathering of meetings industry professionals in the Middle East. The exhibition, which is taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from March 26-28^th 2012, opened its doors to visitors this morning.

His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, opened the highly anticipated 6^th edition of the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM). This year more than 2,600 visitors are expected to attend the only international exhibition in the Middle East region dedicated entirely to the business of meetings, events and business travel. The show will attract senior level international meeting planners, corporate or incentive travel buyers, event organisers and those involved in the decision making process for meetings, events, conferences or incentive travel.

Lois Hall, Reed Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM said: ‘On behalf of Reed Travel Exhibitions, I would like to welcome all our sponsors, key partners, exhibitors and delegates to this year’s GIBTM for what we hope will be the most successful edition to date. We are thrilled to launch a number of exciting new initiatives this year, such as the Business Travel focused sessions with world the leading Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), the first ever Arabic educational session, a cutting-edge Technology Zone, a European Pavilion and the GIBTM mobile app from market leader ShowGizmo. There is immense potential in the Middle East and we are dedicated to bringing together senior buyers, decision makers and suppliers to grow the business travel and meetings industry.”

Over 330 exhibitors from 36 countries are partaking this year, an impressive 17% rise from 2011, which saw 284 companies participate. GIBTM has witnessed an influx of 43 new exhibitors debuting at the show including India Tourism, Kuwait Ministry of Tourism & Culture, Hungarian Tourism, JASPE- Grand Hotel PoltuQuatu, Oman Convention Centre, PSideo SA, Qatar Airways, and many more.

With 7,672 pre-scheduled appointments already made with exhibitors over the two and a half day show, an 8% increase on 2011, and over 273 Hosted Buyers with high spending power from China, United Kingdom, USA, India many other countries, an increase of over 5% from last year’s show, will meet with peers to discuss business opportunities. Records show a rise in pre-registered visitors for this year’s edition of GIBTM, further demonstrating the growing interest in the region’s meetings and business travel industry and the importance of GIBTM as the largest platform in the region to connect the industry’s business professionals.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, ADNEC, AskAli.com, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the official show daily publication.

More information on the event, registering, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com.

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Showcases Unique Proposition for the Meetings and Events Industry at GIBTM

World’s Largest Indoor Theme Park Presents Compelling  Corporate Offering Alongside Its Family-Friendly Attractions
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Event organisers are increasingly looking to define themselves through unique meeting and events venues according to the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi team, ahead of its participation at the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings (GIBTM) Exhibition in Abu Dhabi.
The region’s premier family entertainment destination says corporate groups are sold on including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi within their UAE tourism portfolio as it enjoys international brand recognition and is safe and appealing to all ages and groups with diverse interests.
Not only this; the Park is increasingly attracting another visitor profile – companies keen to explore more creative and inspiring M.I.C.E. destinations that help them stand out from the crowd.
The UAE was named among the top 10 M.I.C.E. destinations globally according to the latest ITBM Middle East Meetings Industry Research report which shows Abu Dhabi is anticipated to attract 48% of all events planned in the Middle East and North Africa in 2012.
“We offer so much more than the standard meeting experience,” says Raquel Lopez, Director of Marketing & Sales, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. “Ferrari World Abu Dhabi has more than 3,000 SQM of events space and we can customise packages on different scales ranging from the privatisation of individual attractions to creating full-day park privatisation packages. The goal is to create something highly memorable, exciting and unique.”

She added: “We have hosted several highly successful events and corporate product launches that really grabbed headlines last year for their ability to offer brands a unique platform to convey their messages in a fun and exciting way. The M.I.C.E. arena is very competitive and companies are increasingly looking for ways to differentiate themselves. Within the M.I.C.E. industry there is a huge appetite for unusual venues – Ferrari World Abu Dhabi incorporates these elements of impressiveness and novelty within a huge range of event space that is inspiring and striking.”

She continued: “Delegates who visit us at GIBTM this year will be able to acquaint themselves with the comprehensive support Ferrari World Abu Dhabi offers its partners to achieve their business goals, with a full range of promotional tools and marketing support.”
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi will exhibit at stand D100, during the three-day event which takes place from March 26-28 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

NEW SOFITEL DEBUTS IN ABU DHABI

Sofitel Luxury Hotels continues its expansion in the Middle East and is pleased to announce the opening of its first property in Abu Dhabi and the group’s second property in the United Arab Emirates.
Located at the eastern tip of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche, the hotel is situated within walking distance of the seafront and close to the business and financial centre. Part of the new Capital Plaza Complex, the hotel is easily accessible to Manarat Al Saadiyat on Saadiyat
Island, where the Louvre and Guggenheim will be located; Yas Marina, Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World and Yas Links on Yas Island and the new business districts of Al Reem, home of the Sorbonne and Sowwah Islands.

“I am particularly happy to be welcoming this new flagship hotel to our network. The Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche is a precious asset for the brand both in the Middle East and internationally. In addition to its strategic location in Abu Dhabi, its design based on contemporary art with some well-known French artists has ensured that this establishment is totally in line with the country strategic positioning” explains Robert Gaymer-Jones, CEO of Sofitel Worldwide.

Featuring a contemporary architectural style, the hotel blends perfectly with the urban landscape. The décor has been designed to showcase the finest in contemporary design.
The lobby harbours an authorized and certified painting of a Pierre Soulages, French artist known as “the painter of black” and Jean Cocteau lithographs whilst sculptures inspired by Brancusi are also displayed.

All of the hotel’s 282 rooms and suites elegantly blend modern design with authentic French “art de recevoir” combined with Arabic hospitality. All rooms are fitted with Sofitel’s exclusive MyBed™ concept with furniture inspired by Buren, a French painter and sculptor. Rooms and suites offer a level of comfort designed to induce relaxation and all boast the latest technology. 48 suites and 57 Club rooms offer access to the Club Millesime Lounge, located on the top floors with breathtaking views of the Corniche.

Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche debuts with six bars and restaurants. Corniche All Day dining where French and Arabic culinary tastes and flavours meet featuring live cooking stations with the best of French and Middle-Eastern food. La Mer offers guests a la carte fine dining
with the best Gulf seafood, prepared in French style. Silk and Spice offers a contemporary take on Thai cuisine enjoyed in a traditional Thai sitting.

Global Meetings Industry Research report indicates buyers looking at organising more events and increasing budgets for the region

The latest Global Meetings Industry Research report for the Gulf, Middle East and North African region, which was launched today at the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel & Meetings exhibition (www.gibtm.com), pointed to buyers and event organisers looking at increasing the volume of events, with a large number also looking at increasing their budgets for the region.

Presented by Sally Greenhill from The Right Solution and Rob Nicholas of meetme, the results of the research indicated that 48.2 percent of Middle East buyers and 47.2 percent of Global buyers said that they organised more events in the last 12 months as compared with the previous year, 64.5 percent and 56.4 percent respectively said that they are even looking at further increasing that volume. Supporting such an increase in the volume of events are 53.7 percent of Middle East buyers and another 46.4 percent of Global buyers indicating an increase in their budgets in the next 12 months.

With the survey results showing that the UAE (Abu Dhabi and Dubai) continues to top the list of ten countries that both Middle East and Global buyers hold such events, factors such as competitive rates, added value, intelligent pricing, innovative products, new destinations, wow factor, economic recovery, political stability, regional security, visas, airlift and airport taxes, are seen to have the most impact in increasing meetings and events business in a specific destination.

The results of the report were drawn out of a survey of 1,063 buyer-respondents, 143 of whom are based in the Middle East. Out of the total respondents, 364 have held events in the region.  

Report at-a-glance summary

Buyers

·               In 2011, 58.5% of events organised by buyers were the conventions and congresses– reflecting a significant increase in this category

·               The top ten countries for Middle East buyers during the past 12 months were the UAE (Abu Dhabi and Dubai), Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Egypt, Turkey, Thailand, Jordan, India, and Malaysia

·               In the next 12 months, Middle East buyers see growth in India, Thailand, Malaysia, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, France, Japan, and the UK

·               The top ten countries for Global buyers during the past 12 months were UAE, the USA, China, Italy, France, the UK, Spain, India, and Germany

·               In the next 12 months, Global buyers see growth in India, the USA, Singapore, Thailand, Italy, the UK, France, China, Germany, and Macao

·               Top ten industry sectors for MENA events are Oil and gas, Pharmaceutical, Finance and Banking, Training and Education, Electronics and Communications, Construction and Engineering, Hospitality, Food and Tobacco, IT and Computing, Manufacturing, and transport/retail/automotive/cosmetics

·               The top five markets for MENA region are the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar and Kuwait

·               In terms of the number of delegates, 46.8% of Global buyers and 52.9% of Middle East buyers said that there were more during the previous 12 months

Suppliers

·               The top client types in the Middle East are Corporate, Government-owned enterprise, NGO’s, Government/not-for-profit, Associations, Agencies, and Consultants

View the full report online at www.gibtm.com

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, ADNEC, AskAli.com, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the official show daily publication.

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012

Buy your tickets now for the 2012 F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Photo courtesy of Yas Marina Circuit

Tickets are on sale now for the 2012 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (November 2-4), with GCC citizens and residents again having the opportunity to take advantage of the 20 per cent early bird discount, until May 31.

Race-goers are being offered a variety of seating and hospitality upgrades available for the first time, allowing them to tailor their race weekend experience – including Marina Club and South Club upgrades. On the corporate sales front, Yas Viceroy Hotel Private Suites & Terrace Tickets and Marina Grandstand Boxes are available again.

In addition to the new ticket structure Yas Marina Circuit has teamed up with Etihad Airways to deliver a series of all-inclusive flight, hotel and race weekend packages to entice regional and international motorsport fans and international leisure and entertainment seekers. Full details of these can be found at www.yasmarinacircuit.ae.

Beyond the on-track action, F1 ticket holders will be able to enjoy a wider entertainment programme in the Oasis areas behind the Grandstands, while the Yasalam after-race concerts of world class acts will once again draw F1 ticket holders to the neighbouring Yas Arena after the days’ on-track action.

In another first for 2012, the popular Australian V8 Supercars series will be the official F1™ support race. Fans of this bumper-to-bumper series can buy select seating packages granting exclusive weekend access to the V8 Supercar pits and drivers. Marina Grandstand Boxes also provide access to the V8 Supercar pits and drivers.

2012 Ticket Categories

Grandstand (North, South, West, Marina): Priced at AED 1,875 (US$ 510) for two days and AED 2,080 (US$ 566) for three days. Two day tickets are now available at AED 1500 (US$ 408) and three day tickets are available AED 1,665 (US$ 453) until 31 May with the 20% early bird discount.

- Marina Club Upgrade: Available to three day Marina Grandstand ticket holders, the Marina Club Upgrade includes exclusive access to the Australian V8 Support Paddock with clear views of the pit lane and all the V8 Supercar action. Marina Club ticket holders will also enjoy reserved seating and access to a relaxing club lounge area with exclusive food and beverages outlets. Marina Club upgrades are priced at AED 2,600 (US$ 708) and are not applicable for the 20% early bird discount.

- South Club Upgrade: Available to South Grandstand ticket holders, the South Club Upgrade includes reserved seating and access to a relaxing club lounge area with exclusive private food and beverages outlets. South Club upgrades are priced at AED 2,600 (US$ 708) and are not applicable for the 20% early bird discount.

Grandstand (Main): Offering prime views of the start/finish line, the tickets are priced at AED 2,200 (US$ 599) for three-day ticket and are not applicable for the 20% early bird discount.

Category 1 Tickets: Located within the Main, West and North Grandstands, Category 1 Al Joodand Al Dhiyafa three-day tickets offer both prime views of the start finish line and luxuries such as balcony seating, air-conditioned lounges, complementary food and beverage service, and complimentary parking. Category 1 three day tickets are available at AED 4,420 (US$ 1,203) and are not applicable for the 20% early bird discount.

Formula One Paddock Club™: Offer the full VIP experience including unrivalled views of the circuit, pit lanes and all the on-track action. Paddock Club ticket holders will also enjoy guided pit lane walks, VIP parking and gourmet open-bar hospitality including fine food and wine. Formula One Paddock Club three day tickets start at AED 16,900 (US$ 4,601) per person and are the ideal for both corporate hosting and discerning F1 fans.

Yas Viceroy Hotel Private Suites and Terrace Tickets: Allow fans to watch all of the excitement of the race from the luxurious surrounds of a Yas Viceroy Hotel private suite or open air terrace. Available to groups of 25 and 35 people for suite tickets, and groups of 50 to 100 guests for terrace tickets, these tickets allow fans to experience the sensation of the Formula 1™ cars passing directly underneath the hotel and are ideal for corporate hosting or large groups of friends.

Marina Grandstand Boxes: Featuring some of the finest panoramic views of the on track action, the Yas Marina, private Marina Grandstand Boxes are located on the first floor of Marina Grandstand, and feature a dedicated balcony overlooking the track and access to the Australian V8 Supercar Pit Lane Walk. Grandstand Box ticket holders will enjoy a selection of canapés and beverages throughout each day and a pre-race gourmet three-course meal. Perfect for corporate hosting or large groups of friends, Grandstand Boxes can be booked for groups for 40 or tables of 10.

GIBTM GEARS UP FOR A SUCCESSFUL SHOW

Education is focus for meetings professionals at Abu Dhabi event

The Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (www.gibtm.com) gets underway on 26^th March and delegate numbers are already up from last year. With more than 2,500 attendees, 308 exhibitors from 34 countries and an increase in visitor pre-registration from last year, GIBTM is preparing for its most successful show yet.

The largest gathering of meetings industry professionals in the Middle East, which takes place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from March 26-28^th 2012, will launch several new features at the show, including the Technology Zone, event mobile app and the first-ever Arabic educational session.

Lois Hall, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM commented; “As the only exhibition in the region which solely focuses on the meetings, incentive, events and business travel industry, we welcome the increased number of visitors from the region and are looking forward to a fantastic show. This year, we are introducing a wide variety of new features that will allow attendees to build on their business skills, deepen their understanding of the industry through educational sessions and meet and network with potential clients. With so much to offer, GIBTM is the must-attend meetings industry event of the year.”

As trade visitor attendance is free, visitors who register online before the event can gain fast-track entry to three impactful days of business, educational seminars, networking and a host of other exciting benefits.Complimentary Shuttle Buses from Dubai will bring visitors back and forth to Abu Dhabi on each day of the show, as will they offer a return service to and from the exhibition from the GIBTM Official Hotels. For shuttle bus information, visit www.gibtm.com/shuttle-buses.

GIBTM’s Hosted Buyer programme brings together key purchasers and decision makers from around the world to the event to facilitate business opportunities and networking. This year while the majority of Hosted Buyers hail from the Middle East, a significant proportion will be visiting from Europe, Russia and Asia Pacific.

Attendees are invited to attend a full programme of educational sessions led by some of the most influential experts in the industry. This year GIBTM’S Education Programme will combine experience, research and industry knowledge to lead the way in delivering critical insight and solutions to meetings industry issues. A major highlight this year includes the first ever Arabic session to be delivered by Ali Al Saloom of Ask-Ali.com on Tuesday 27 March, daily sessions with world leading business travel association ACTE, and the hugely anticipated industry insights with ICCA and MPI.

A new aspect of this year’s show is the Technology Zone, an area dedicated to showcasing the industry’s most technologically advanced products that are designed to improve many areas of the MICE experience. From event planning and registration tools to webcasting, mobile applications and audio-visual, visitors will find everything they need to enhance their next meeting or event.

The Technology Zone will go hand in hand with GIBTM’s brand new smartphone app, developed by market leader, Show Gizmo. By pre-registering now to attend, visitors will gain a first look into Show Gizmo. The app will allow users to connect with other visitors and exhibitors and build their event itinerary with the event planner tool. It will be continually updated before and during GIBTM with a full ‘What’s on’ guide, essential information, exhibitor listings, speaker profiles and the latest show photos. The app is free to download on all iPhone, iPad, Android and BlackBerry devices and is designed to help attendees get the most from this year’s GIBTM, pre-show, onsite at the show and post-show.

All attendees at GIBTM are invited to build on their industry network at the official welcome reception held at the brand new Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi on Tuesday 27 March. Straight after the show, GIBTM coaches will transport delegates to the stunning hotel for an evening of networking away from the show floor.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, ADNEC, Ask Ali.com, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the official show daily publication.

Pre-register to attend GIBTM at www.gibtm.com/registration

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012.

GIBTM SHAPING UP FOR MAJOR BUSINESS

Saudi Arabia leads regional Hosted Buyer attendance.

With less than two weeks remaining until GIBTM – the leading event for the meetings, incentives and business travel industry in the Gulf Region (www.gibtm.com) – the organisers, Reed Travel Exhibitions, have announced that there will be 270 Hosted Buyers attending from countries across the globe with a new emphasis on Saudi meetings, events and business professionals with 25 confirmed to participate.

As a result of the interest generated from Hosted Buyers attending the show from countries including Australia, Brazil, China, India, Qatar, Russia, The U.S and UK, some exhibitors including Emirates Palace, The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf Resort and Spa, Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers and Armani Hotel Dubai and Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority have now opened second diaries to accommodate the demand for appointments pre-scheduled.

The emphasis of the event is on business tourism, meetings, events and conferences with over 300exhibitors on the show floor from the Gulf and wider Middle East. First time exhibitors include: Kuwait Ministry of Commerce and Industry Tourism Sector’, Qatar Airways, Royal Brunei Airlines, Convention Bureau Italia S. P. A., Show Gizmo, 1001 Direk Cistern, PSideo SA, Oman Convention Center, Hotel Pullman Dubai, Mall of Emirates, Yas Viceroy Hotel Abu Dhabi, Golden Isle Travel (Pvt) Ltd., Bonnington Hotel – Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Rosewood Abu Dhabi and Hyatt Capital Gate Hotel.

With the industry growing year on year as many new venues and products are launched, this year both the Government of Dubai and Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority are increasing the size of their stand to accommodate the growing number of exhibiting partners.

Lois Hall, Reed Travel Exhibitions Event Director GIBTM commented: “The combination of so many new exhibitors as well as the growth in the industry regionally and internationally means we are looking forward to a busy show. The major increase in Saudi Arabian Hosted Buyers are a real sign that GIBTM is a powerful place to do business and together with our new focus on Business Travel we hope to also see many more new faces from the corporate travel sector.”

ACTE, The Association of Corporate Travel Executives, will also, for the first time, provide ground breaking educational sessions as a result of their new strategic partnership with GIBTM. The aim of each education seminar will be to help individuals who are involved in planning business travel for their clients make well informed decisions, reduce costs, enhance performance and ultimately increase their network of suppliers. Seminars include:

• First step in optimising your business travel spend: Building and implementing a travel policy – Do’s and Don’ts
• Unravel the mystery of business travel technology distribution costs and how it affects the price you pay 
• Improve finance processes and optimise travel payment systems in the Middle Eastern Region
• Delivering savings in an upbeat Middle Eastern market

Companies interested in exhibiting at GIBTM 2012 should contact Danielle Keogh, Head of Sales for GIBTM – Danielle.keogh@reedexpo.co.uk(0208 910 7191) or Shinu Pillai, Regional Sales Manager – shinu.pillai@reedexpo.ae (+971 4 364 2815).

For more information on how to register to attend GIBTM please visit www.gibtm.com and to find out more information on education sessions at GIBTM, please visit www.gibtm.com/education.

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012.  

GLOBAL interest RISES in gibtm’s hosted buyer programme

Three hundred Hosted Buyers with high spending power are expected to attend GIBTM (www.gibtm.com), an indication of high-value business in light of figures, which showed that 44% of Hosted Buyers attending GIBTM 2011 had an annual meetings budget of more than m. An increase in global applications for the GIBTM Hosted Buyer Programme suggests it will be the most successful edition yet.

Marked as a must-attend event in the business calendars of meetings and event organizers from across the globe, the Hosted Buyer Programme is an invaluable element of GIBTM, which is held on March 26-28 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC).

GIBTM 2012 will welcome an increased presence of buyers travelling from destinations such as China, United Kingdom, USA, India and Germany as well as regional Middle East buyers, proving that the Hosted Buyer programme has a truly global dimension. The exhibition will provide a targeted platform for 260 global exhibitors, more than 2,800 industry professionals, an estimated 8,000 pre-scheduled appointments and an un-missable line-up of professional education to include the first ever dedicated business travel sessions delivered by ACTE (the Association of Corporate Travel Executives).

Research has confirmed that 98% of Hosted Buyers who attended GIBTM 2011 left the show feeling satisfied that the Global Meetings and Events Exhibition had met their commercial needs.

“GIBTM from its inception has helped people in the Middle East connect. Whether you are looking for great DMC partners, meeting new Hotel teams or just want to understand a destination better, GIBTM lets you do that all in one concise place,” said Hosted Buyer Kip Horton, President, International Division, HPN Global, USA. “The first time I walked in the show I thought I would be done seeing things in three hours. Invariably I now find that at the end of three days there are still some folks I did not get to connect with because I was so busy.

“As this region gains prominence as a destination for group meetings and incentives, anyone planning on working there needs to be at GIBTM. Whether it’s to renew old partnerships or establish new ones, GIBTM is not to be missed.”

Benefits for Hosted Buyers at GIBTM include complimentary flights and accommodation, transfers and a personal diary of pre–scheduled appointments. In addition to these, buyers will also be invited to exclusive networking events at the brand new Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi and the luxurious Emirates Palace, dedicated Hosted Buyer lounges, the chance to meet a broad range of international exhibitors and dedicated education on a variety of industry-related hot topics and global trends.

Lois Hall, Reed Travel Exhibitions Manager of GIBTM, explained: “The Hosted Buyer programme offers excellent business opportunities through the facilitation of pre-scheduled face-to-face meetings. Buyers are able to plan their time more efficiently and are matched with the exhibitors they want to meet through the system, which translates to even more opportunities to conduct business onsite. We constantly seek ways to bring buyers and sellers together to maximise their return on investment at GIBTM.”

Sara Spencer, Conference Manager at Select Biosciences in the UK, said: “Select Biosciences provides training courses and conferences to the life science marketplace. At the moment we do not hold events in the Middle East, but it is a geographical area that we are very interested in moving into, hence my attendance at GIBTM. I would be interested in meeting venues, suppliers and people that are able to advise on the ease and support that is provided to event organisers.”

In addition to the Hosted Buyer experience at GIBTM, Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority will be hosting an ‘Abu Dhabi Day’ on the final day of the exhibition, after the show closes at 1pm, offering overseas buyers the opportunity to tour and explore the capital. Highlights include the grand Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the city of Abu Dhabi and Manarat Al Saadiyat, a multi-purpose visitor centre which hosts the state-of-the-art Saadiyat Island exhibition, ‘The Saadiyat Story’ and the world premiere of Rauschenberg, Ruscha, Serra, Twombly, Warhol and Wool (RSTW) an exhibition of masterpieces from the private collection of one of the art world’s pre-eminent figures Larry Gagosian.  

If you are an organiser of an event or conference or someone who influences or makes budgetary decisions for international business travel, meetings, incentive travel, international conventions, product launches or staff training, then you could be eligible to attend the largest gathering of meeting professionals in the Gulf as a Hosted Buyer.  Apply today www.gibtm.com/hostedbuyers

Gourmet Stars Awards crowns Abu Dhabi’s hospitality elite

Hakkasan, the modern Chinese fine dining restaurant at Emirates Palace, scooped the prestigious ‘Restaurant of the Year’ gong at the 2012 Gourmet Stars Awards – the closing event of Gourmet Abu Dhabi, the emirate’s annual culinary festival.

Having established a credible worldwide brand courtesy of affiliated restaurants in London’s Hanway Place, London Mayfair, Miami, Mumbai, Dubai and New York, Hakkasan – owned by Abu Dhabi-based property investment company, Tasameem – did not have everything its own way as its Head Chef Lee Kok Hua narrowly lost out to Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi counterpart, Chef Patrick Bischoff, in the coveted ‘Executive Chef of the Year’ race.

In all, 11 Gourmet Stars Awards were presented, with Hakkasan’s success sealing three category wins for restaurants or individuals connected to Emirates Palace; Chef Josef Teuschler took home the much-sought-after ‘Pastry Chef of the Year’ award, while the UAE’s Chef Ali Ebdowa of Emirati fine dining restaurant, Mezlai, added a ‘Regional Cuisine Chef of the Year’ crown to the ‘Special Honorary Award’ he picked up last year.

Following in the footsteps of Chef Ebdowa, Emirati pioneer Chef Khuloud Atiq won this year’s ‘Special Honorary Award’ for her work as a consultant with Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC).

In addition to Chef Bischoff’s ‘Executive Chef of the Year’ win, Abu Dhabi-based Rotana Group also celebrated Geoffrey Boon, from Teatro, Park Rotana claiming the prize for ‘Restaurant Manager of the Year’.

The iconic Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi also claimed two awards: Rika Yusmita won ‘Restaurant Host of the Year’ for her role at Kazu, while the mouth-watering fare at Atayeb restaurant saw it earn ‘Regional Cuisine Restaurant of the Year.’

Elsewhere, Chef Amrish Sood won ‘Restaurant Chef of the Year’– the maestro’s ongoing work at Ushna, Souk, Qaryat Al Beri, ensuring he became the first person in Gourmet Stars Awards history to claim back-to-back category wins.

In other awards, Hilton Abu Dhabi’s Gajendra Sharma won ‘Food & Beverage Manager of the Year’, while Mariam Elacel, of Cedar Lounge, Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, won ‘Regional Cuisine Manager of the Year’.

ASK ALI.COM BRINGS LOCAL KNOWLEDGE TO GLOBAL BUSINESS TRAVEL EVENT

For the first time in the region, the 6th Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM), which runs from March 26-28 2012, will hold free-to-attend, interactive Arabic sessions for all attendees at the show; a significant milestone for the growing meetings and events industry in the Middle East.

Recognising the growing strength of business travel across the region, Reed Travel Exhibitions is honoured to welcome Ask Ali.com as an Official Sponsor of GIBTM and welcome Ali Al Saloom. As a well-recognized industry expert and Cultural Tourism Consultant at Embrace Arabia Consultancy, he will deliver a highly anticipated seminar to the local community.
Mr. Al Saloom will discuss how business travel in the region is a modern interpretation of the age-old concept of the Majlis, and how the biggest opportunity in the region is linking business tourism with Arabic traditions and culture.

“This new Arabic addition to the educational programme is groundbreaking for GIBTM. It is the first time that Arabic seminars have been run in the region solely dedicated to the MICE industry and will promote the Middle East as an important business hub of the 21st century,” said Lois Hall, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM.
Given his strong connection to UAE’s history and culture, Mr. Al Saloom will bring his expertise of the local culture to the global audience at GIBTM. He will offer participants a deeper understanding of how to protect, promote and develop the authentic Arabic meeting format of the Majlis, while ensuring compatibility with international trends.

“It is a great honour for me to be chosen to introduce the wonderful world of MICE to my fellow countrymen and to the people of the region’ said Ali Al Saloom.  “The MICE industry has enormous regional significance and great potential. However, I think that many potential local and regional players in the market don’t fully understand that potential. It is in our nature as Arabs, if we don’t know or understand something, to feel embarrassed to ask. So I look forward to explaining why MICE matters and to do so Inshallah in the Arabic language in my native Khaleji dialect.”
This seminar will highlight how businesses can add a local touch to otherwise “business-as-usual” events, to cater to their local clients’ needs. Ali Al Saloom aka ‘Ask Ali’ will inspire participants to become aware of the regional traditions and use them to their advantage and for regional branding.

AskAli.com is the leading regional website for business travellers and tourists alike to ask all kinds of questions regarding Emirati and Arabic culture; travel tips, history, religion, architecture, and even archaeology news.
Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), ADNEC, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the official show daily publication.
More information on the event, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com.
GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26th-28th March 2012.
Join GIBTM on Linked in, Twitter and Facebook.

GROUNDBREAKING EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMME ANNOUNCED FOR GIBTM 2012

Some of the worlds most influential industry leaders are preparing to converge in less than six weeks time at the highly anticipated 6^th edition of GIBTM, the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition from 26-28 March. Experts will deliver a robust educational programme designed to stimulate interactive, focused delegate discussions and examine the industry’s key trends and topics for global MICE industry professionals.

Speakers from the world’s leading industry associations such as the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE) and Meeting Professionals International (MPI) in addition to an impressive line-up of the industry’s most senior executives and global authorities from the MICE sector, together will lead sessions around best practices, current and future trends, emerging technology, social media and professional development.

A major highlight at this year’s show will once again be the highly acclaimed annual IBTM Middle East Meeting Industry Report, undertaken by Reed Travel Exhibitions and meetme magazine, presented by Sally Greenhill, The Right Solution, and Rob Nicholas, meetme. The report will provide an invaluable insight into the regional and global outlook on today’s meetings and events industry and identify future trends.

For the first time in the history of the show, GIBTM has partnered with the Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), who will launch a series of daily seminars providing discussions focused on the convergence of meetings and travel management. Cutting edge topics include; how to deliver savings in an upbeat Middle Eastern market, optimising travel payment systems in the region, and the Do’s and Don’ts in building and implementing travel policies.

GIBTM is also proud to announce yet another “first” for the show, with a groundbreaking development for its educational programme. GIBTM will deliver the very first Arabic session presented by the respected Ali Al Saloom of Ask Ali.com.

‘We at Reed Travel Exhibitions are honoured to welcome Ask Ali.com to GIBTM as a valued sponsor and partner of the show this year. This is a very exciting addition to the extensive educational programme at GIBTM that will celebrate and embrace local culture. Delegates can discover how the lucrative business opportunities in the region are linked to business tourism with Arabic traditions and culture. Launching the first ever Arabic Seminar in the region dedicated to the meetings and events industry is groundbreaking news for all involved in this sector,” adds Lois Hall.

Other leading experts to present at the show include Dr. Edith M Szivas, Director of Research and Consultancy at Jumeirah Group, Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management, who will explore evolution and growth of sustainable tourism globally and in the Gulf region with a special focus on the meetings industry. Established ‘Presentologist’ at Satellite Visual Communication, John Quinn, will discuss how to create effective and interactive presentations that will stand out. Camil El Khoury, Chief Vision Officer of the ideas group, will present a powerful session on how successful leaders grow at the speed of change and how professionals can turn challenges into growth opportunities.

A panel discussion, hosted by Bicky Carlra, Global President at TraVision and Founder of 7Deals Travel, will highlight how increasing accessibility to information through technology is influencing corporate travel procurement strategies and processes. Lee Mancini, Manager of Dubai-based Sekari, will uncover strategies on how companies of all sizes can take advantage of search engine optimisation to expand their business.

“As the largest gathering of meetings and events industry professionals in the Middle East, we must encourage learning and development not only to enhance participants’ knowledge and development but so that meetings professionals can apply what they learn to grow the industry. Education is one of the show’s core elements that will drive the development of the meetings industry forward,” explains Lois Hall, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), ADNEC, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the Official Show Daily publication.

More information on the event, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com.

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012.  

Abu Dhabi set to host its biggest convention yet

Abu Dhabi is readying to host the biggest convention yet seen by the city, with over 10,000 delegates attending theWorld Ophthalmology Congress® 2012 (WOC2012).

The prevention and treatment of diabetes-related blindness and cataracts will be key topics at WOC2012, being held at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), February 16-20.

Largest Abu Dhabi Ambassador Programme gets underway

The largest edition of ADTA’s annual Abu Dhabi Ambassador Programme – which has now entered its fifth year – is underway, bringing together 132 Emirati nationals, aged between 20 and 35, and representing some 50 public and private sector organisations – 34 of which are new to the programme.

Ahlan Madonna!

Madonna will perform exclusively in the Middle East at Yas Arena on June 3, marking a new milestone entertainment milestone for Abu Dhabi.

Event organiser FLASH confirmed that 22,000 tickets for the show will be sold and will go on sale at midday UAE time (GMT +4) on February 27, with prices starting at 350 AED (US$ 95). Tickets can be bought atwww.thinkflash.ae, by calling 800 FLASH (  800-35274      ), or from Virgin Megastores outlets across the Middle East.

Etihad Airways will be producing packages for the concert with details being made available shortly at www.etihad.com/Madonna

‘Made in Korea’ for Abu Dhabi

An inaugural ‘Made In Korea’ expo will bring the latest products, services and technology from South Korea to the UAE capital to Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from May 21-23.

According to organiser Ideal Events, the exhibition will be a launch platform offering major new business opportunities to the Middle East with many of the products, services and technology being introduced to the region for the first time.

EUROPEAN PAVILION AT GIBTM SUPPORTS INTERNATIONAL DEMAND TO EXPAND BUSINESS INTO THE GULF

Building on the success of GIBTM 2011 (www.gibtm.com) – this year’s Global Meetings and Events Exhibition for the Gulf will host a European Exhibitor Pavilion designed to accommodate European businesses expanding their business reach into the Gulf region (www.gibtm.com/visiting/europe).

 Exhibiting as a partner within the European Pavilion will allow destinations and European Private Sector companies opportunity to use GIBTM as a key platform to cost effectively launch their products into the Gulf region.

 Dora Kiss, Senior Project Manager, Hungarian Convention Bureau, exhibiting in the European Pavilion at GIBTM this year, commented: “Countries of the Middle East are new markets for the Hungarian Convention Bureau. We would like to present our wonderful country on that continent, as well, because we truly believe that Hungary’s supply is really competitive for the Orient”.

The pavilion will create strong return on investment for exhibiting partners as over 1,500 appointments are anticipated to take place between European exhibitors and Hosted Buyers attending from the Gulf region.

Vassilis Theocharides, returning exhibiton and Director of the Cyprus Tourism Organisation of Middle East & Arabian Gulf commented, “The Cyprus Tourism Organisation has been supporting GIBTM since it was launched. It is undoubtedly the most comprehensive MICE exhibition in the Middle East. Every year we have increased demand from our partners to participate which proves its popularity”.

This year’s GIBTM will also see the launch of the GIBTM Global Industry research project which will be followed by a panel discussion exploring both the in and outbound analysis of the meetings industry, future trends and buyer and supplier habits within the region.

GIBTM is receiving strong interest and bookings from new and returning international participants who are looking to access the lucrative Middle East meetings, events and business travel market, all recognising GIBTM and the largest and proven platform in the region to do so.

Exhibitors including India Tourism, Seoul Convention Bureau, Sri Lanka Convention Bureau, Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau, Czech Tourism, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau, Cyprus Tourism Organisation and the Embassy of The Republic of Indonesia have also confirmed their participation.

Companies interested in exhibiting at GIBTM 2012 should contact Danielle Keogh, Head of Sales for GIBTM. Please email Danielle.keogh@reedexpo.co.uk or call 0208 910 7191.

For more information on GIBTM 2012 (26^th – 28^th March 2012), visit www.gibtm.com/visiting/europe.

Record year for Abu Dhabi hotel guests

Two beachfront hotels, Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas (pictured) and The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Abu Dhabi, have opened Saadiyat Island to guests

Abu Dhabi has recorded its most successful year ever in terms of hotel guest arrivals with some 2,111,611 people staying in the emirate’s hotels and hotel apartments – beating its 2011 stretch target of 2 million by 6.5% or over 100,000 guests.

The highly encouraging result in a year which has seen substantial additions to Abu Dhabi’s hotel and resort inventory, including several five-star beach properties opening up Saadiyat Island to guests, leaves the emirate well placed to build for 2102.

Annual growth was recorded across a number of key metrics including: guest nights, which were up 22% to 6.3 million; occupancy levels which rose 7% to 69%; revenue, which rose 3% to AED 4.375 billion (US $ 1.2 billion) and length of stay which expanded 5% to 2.97 nights. Room revenue increased by 2% to AED2.3 billion (US $631 million), though the average room rate slipped by 14% to AED 490 (US $133), while food and beverage revenue increased by 6% to AED1.605 billion (US $434.721 million).

Investments in Qatar will boost Meetings industry

GIBTM 2012 to host a dedicated Qatar Pavilion

The 2012 Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (www.gibtm.com) will host a dedicated Qatar Pavilion with key exhibitors showcasing the growing opportunities and facilities related to the Qatari Meetings industry. GIBTM, a REED Travel Exhibitions event, is the region’s only event dedicated to the meetings and events industry and will be held 26-28^th March 2012.

Qatar’s events industry has been under the spotlight since the country won the rights to host the 2022 FIFA World Cup last year. Securing such a significant international event has led to a huge investment in tourism infrastructure. Qatar’s MICE industry has been developing over the last few years with the addition of conference centres such as the newly opened Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC) which adds some 40,000 sqm of exhibition space and a range of conference, meeting and banqueting spaces to the city’s inventory. QNCC will be one of the key exhibitors showcasing their facilities at the Qatar Pavilion at GIBTM.

“Qatar is one of the most vibrant economies in the world and is fast becoming a business destination of choice and just two weeks ago Qatar scooped the award for the World’s Leading Business Travel Destination at the World Travel Awards. Built to be one of the most sophisticated convention and exhibition centres in the world, QNCC recently opened on 4 December 2011,” said Trevor McCartney, Director of Business development, QNCC.

As Qatar realises its vision of moving from a carbon based economy to one of the most dynamic knowledge-based economies in the world, QNCC is facilitating this transition by targeting knowledge-based conferences and exhibitions.

“The Centre also acts as a catalyst for economic impact for the country. We are proud to support the growth of the Qatari MICE industry and by taking part in GIBTM we aim to educate regional and international meeting planners on the world-class events spaces that Qatar has to offer, in addition to the rich cultural heritage and warm welcome,” added McCartney.

In addition to QNCC the Qatar Pavilion at GIBTM will host a range of exhibitors including Qatar Airways, Doha Marriot Hotel, Moevenpick Towers and Suites Doha, Swiss-Belhotel Doha, Qatar International Tours, Qatar International Adventures, Retaj Hotels & Hospitality, W Doha Hotel & Residence, QMDI – Qatar MICE Development Institute and Renaissance Hotels.

“Qatar is flourishing in the MICE realm – it is savvy, has so many authentic options for an incentive group coupled with state of the art facilities for conferences. The new Convention Centre is a cut above the rest, combining luxury and ergonomics and the sheer size is just staggering. The footprints we are making on the world stage are now just the beginning, I hope the MICE societies are ready to be dazzled,” states Shane Jameson – Director of Sales & Marketing, Moevenpick Tower & Suties Doha.

Qatar will invest $20-25 billion in tourism infrastructure by 2022 and the MICE industry is a key element in Qatar’s plans for diversification, expansion and development.The government has allocated $11 billion on a new international airport and a $5.5 billion on a deepwater seaport.

Named Airline of the Year 2011 by global industry audit Skytrax and Best Airline for International Travel by Business Traveller USA, Qatar Airways will fly to over 120 destinations worldwide by 2013. Qatar is perfectly positioned within aircraft reach from almost anywhere in the world to host any international event with more than three billion people living within five hours flying time of our capital city, Doha. The country has an excellent reputation for hosting world-class events, and will soon become one of the top MICE destinations. Qatar Airways is currently supporting the meetings industry through Qatar Airways Holidays, the airline’s tour operating arm, by offering a variety of short holiday breaks that have been especially packaged and priced for congress and exhibition participants.

“Excellent flight connections together with spacious exhibition and conference venues equipped with state-of-the-art technology to luxurious accommodations and specialised freight forwarders, all make Qatar an ideal location for regional and international business meetings and events”, said Lois Hall, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM. “For the first time GIBTM will showcase a dedicated Qatar pavilion where visitors and hosted buyers alike can have an insight on the country’s recent developments”, she explained.

GIBTM is the largest gathering of meetings industry professionals in the Middle East, attended by over 2750 industry professionals from all over the region, and is a driving force behind the industry offering five star business, networking and educational opportunities.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, ADNEC, Etihad and The Vision. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the Official Show Daily publication.

More information on the event, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com. 

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012.

Join GIBTM on Linked in, Twitter and Facebook.  

Online visitor registration for GIBTM 2012 now open

Visitors can now register for GIBTM, the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition and reap benefits leading up to and during the show on March 26-28^th2012. For more information and to register, please visit www.gibtm.com/registration.

Visitors are requested to complete a questionnaire detailing their organisation’s activities, target geographic markets, industry segments and products of interest. The information is then analysed by Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE), the world’s leading provider of exhibitions in the travel and tourism industry, to make recommendations to registrants on which exhibitors they should meet with, educational seminars they should attend and other show features that might be of interest to them.

To maximise time and take advantage of every aspect of the event, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM, Lois Hall encourages registrants to take advantage of the show’s services in the run up to the event. “Benefits include the latest updates on exhibitors and the show, and priority access and free entry to GIBTM 2012. Meetings can be scheduled well before the show as visitors have access to a wealth of exhibitors through the portal. This fosters interaction and builds relationships prior to the exhibition,” explains Hall.

Visitors will have the opportunity to connect with over 2800 international industry professionals expected to attend GIBTM 2012, 300 Hosted Buyers from the business travel and meetings industry and more than 280 exhibiting companies, and free entrance to cutting edge education seminars and networking events.

Throughout the year, Reed Travel Exhibitions encourages dialogue and debate on industry topics, issues and trends between visitors and exhibitors before, during and after the exhibition through its Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn accounts.

Held at Abu National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), organisers are seeking to draw new exhibitors, present the latest in innovative tourism and offer critical insight and solutions to meetings industry issues and enhance business prospects in the Middle East. Bahrain Tourism Company, Cyprus Tourism Authority, Czech Tourism,Dubai Convention Bureau, India Tourism Authority, Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau, Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority amongst many others will be participating in GIBTM 2012, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about these growing MICE destinations.

Through GIBTM’s recent collaboration with ACTE, The Association of Corporate Travel Executives, educational sessions focused on the convergence of managing meetings and travel will take place at the show, further enhancing business travel across the region. The series of educational seminars dedicated to the local meetings industry community, reiterate GIBTM’s continued commitment to be the driving force behind the development of the professional meetings (MICE) industry across the Middle East.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), ADNEC, Etihad Airways and The Vision Destination Management Company. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the Official Show Daily publication.

More information on the event, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com 

GIBTM 2012 takes place on the 26^th-28^th March 2012.

Join GIBTM on Linked in, Twitter and Facebook.

‘Connecting Cultures’

MasterChef Australia judge on his way to Gourmet Abu Dhabi

George Calombaris, the chef now known worldwide as a judge of the highly successful MasterChef Australia TV series and the architect of ‘Modern Greek’ cuisine,

ADTA scoops two 2011 World Travel Awards

ADTA has scooped two 2011 World Travel Awards - the World’s Responsible Tourism Award and World’s Leading Destination Marketing Campaign, where it beat off shortlisted competition from India and Spain.

The awards were presented in a Gala Dinner in Doha where Abu Dhabi was prominent in the winners’ line-up. Other stakeholder wins included Jumeirah at Etihad Towers being named the ‘World’s Leading New Hotel’; Emirates Palace winning both the 2011 ‘World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Hotel’ and the ‘World’s Leading Presidential Suite’; ADNEC took the ‘World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Centre’; the Royal Jet Group taking the ‘World’s Leading Private Jet Charter’ and Etihad Airways picking up three awards - the 2011 World’s Leading Airline, 2011 World’s Leading Airline First Class and 2011 World’s Leading Airline to the Middle East.

Masters of the sea meet ships of the desert

Decked out in the five teams’ colours, the Volvo Ocean Race skippers, flanked by their crews, paraded Arabian style on the emirate’s indigenous endurance champions through Abu Dhabi’s Destination Village on the Corniche breakwater in front of thousands of fans.  There was a major roar of support for Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing’s skipper, Ian Walker, who led the parade.

Known for their unrivalled survival stamina, camels are a key part of Abu Dhabi’s heritage. Able to go without water for weeks on end, the camel was the lifeblood of Abu Dhabi’s traditional desert life. Also heralded for their own survival and endurance skills, the sea-hardened Volvo Ocean Race crews, who spend 25 days at a time battling some of the world’s most treacherous conditions and oceans could relate to the ‘ships of the desert’.

Little Louie Vega to rock Abu Dhabi

Little Louie Vega – one of America’s top DJs and producers – will rock crowds in the UAE capital as part of Abu Dhabi’s two-week hosting of the Volvo Ocean Race – the gruelling 39,000 mile round the world yacht race, known as the ‘Everest of Sailing’.

One half of the critically-acclaimed duo, Master At Work, the Miami-based artist – who has remixed the likes of Jamiroquai, Madonna and Michael Jackson – will dazzle crowds at the Volvo Ocean Race ‘Destination Village’ on January 5^th 2012. The concert, which starts at 9pm, is free to the public.

Spinning his own unique blend of disco classics, obscurities, and Latin dance floor anthems, both and new, Little Louie Vega will wow fans at the Corniche Destination Village for his one-night only show.

For more information on the Abu Dhabi stopover and to book stunning holiday and travel packages, please visitwww.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com

ADTA plans its biggest overseas promotion campaign yet

ADTA will next year stage it largest ever promotions programme with some 16 exhibitions and eight road shows across 18 countries slated. The programme, which will run from February to November, has been designed in consultation with stakeholders and after reviewing the buyer profile of each exhibition.

The dynamic promotions line-up, which includes first-time participation in the IMEX America business tourism and incentive exhibition and the Riyadh Travel Fair, as well as new-to-market stakeholder road shows in Australia, China, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia and the Ukraine, is aimed at supporting ADTA’s 2012 hotel guest target of 2.3 million – a 15% rise on 2011’s target.

In a move to stimulate stakeholder participation, the authority has introduced fee discounts for sharers taking part in the majority of shows.

‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ Initiative

‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ initiative – an umbrella marketing, communications, product packaging and distribution platform is being activated to increase the emirate’s penetration of the lucrative golf tourism segment.

Spearheaded by ADTA, which owns the annual European PGA Tour-backed Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship, the initiative has been developed in partnership with golf clubs and relevant stakeholders including hotels and destination management companies, ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ aims to up the emirate’s ante in the global golf tourism market estimated to be worth US$17billion annually, according to theInternational Association of Golf Tourism OPerators (IAGTO). Key source markets have been identified as the UK, Ireland, France, Italy, Germany, Scandinavia, China, Korea and Japan, with golfing to be packaged as both a primary purpose of visit and/or as part of an overall engaging destination experience.

The vehicle, with its own unique promotional identity, web portal, trade distribution and consumer booking channels, provides exclusive, highly attractive rates at three championship-ready courses – Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi Golf Club (ADGC) and Yas Links Golf Club – and bundles ancillary add-ons, such as flights, hotels and the on-the-ground transportation.

Although the capital’s three championship-ready courses – all within a 25-miute radius of each other – are mainstay products driving the programme, ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ extends to all of the emirate’s playing facilities. Additional options include an idyllic 18-hole country course at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club in the emirate’s heritage heartland; a floodlit, nine-hole urban course at Abu Dhabi City Golf Club; and a unique 18-hole sand course at Al Ghazal Golf Club.

To capitalise on the emirate’s heightened affordability, a variety of ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ launch packages are already available, with extended ‘Golf Plus’ products – incorporating various leisure and cultural activities in personalised, golf-centric itineraries – due to come online in coming months

Abu Dhabi hosted 1.3 million business travelers in 2011

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 22 November 2011 – Business travel is set to be one of the key focuses of the 2012 Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM), the region’s only event dedicated to the meetings and events industry to be held next March. GIBTM, a REED Travel Exhibitions event, is the largest gathering of meetings industry professionals in the Middle East, attended by over 2750 industry professionals from all over the region, and is a driving force behind the industry offering five star business, networking and educational opportunities.

GIBTM, now in it’s is 6^th year, will focus on opportunities in the growing business travel sector.

“The business and corporate travel community is an intrinsic part of the meetings industry and has been expanding steadily, in 2012 we are making business travel a key focus at GIBTM. With the UAE witnessing a 5% increase in air traffic this year* and recording the largest number of hotel rooms under way in the Middle East and Africa region**we expect to see even greater growth in the business travel sector,” said Lois Jane Hall, REED Travel Exhibitions Manager GIBTM. “We are collaborating with The Association of Corporate Travel Executives (ACTE), to provide unprecedented solutions for business travelers,” she added.

Pre-qualified buyers of business travel from the region will be selected and invited to take part in the well established Hosted Buyer program, a platform providing exclusive business meeting opportunities for regional and international senior level buyers and decision makers. These targeted and pre-qualified hosted buyers will meet with regional and international exhibitors.

Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), GIBTM’s partner and supporter, is placing increased emphasis on attracting business tourism and over the past few years has significantly upgraded its meetings and conference facilities, providing businesses with world-class facilities.

“In 2015, we aim to become the number one meetings destination in the region, a top-100 meetings destination in the world, host four times the number of current MICE events and double the number of MICE visitor arrivals and yield,” said Gillian Taylor, ADTA Business Tourism Manager.

ADTA expects an increase of 20,000 business tourists this year. Approximately 1.3 million of the 1.8 million guests across 115 hotels and hotel apartments in the Emirate are business travelers, out of which 215,000 guests arrive specifically for MICE related activities.

Oman Ministry of Tourism and Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts were also among the first exhibitors signing up for GIBTM 2012 and are both keen to engage with business travelers.

“We are pleased that business travel is a key focus for GIBTM 2012 as it is in line with our efforts. Business travellers want to concentrate on making their trip a success,” says Toufic Tamim, VP Sales & Marketing, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, Middle East. “They don’t want the detail of extras, they simply want to know everything that they need is included as part of their stay and that motivated us to offer them special business packages such as our recently launched Business Bundle offer,” he added. Highspeed internet, breakfast, late checkout and laundry pressing are the four most requested services by corporate travelers at Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts, according to Tamim.

“The planned convention center and airport will have modern facilities and will help position Oman as one of the main business travel destinations in the region,” said Khalid Al Zadjali, Head of Overseas Promotion, Oman Ministry of Tourism. “Our aim for participating in GIBTM 2012 is to recognise new trends, best practices and also benefit from the abundant networking opportunities,” he added.

Held under the patronage of Chairman, HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, GIBTM 2012’s distinguished industry partners include Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, ADNEC, Etihad and The Vision. Meetme, published by NPI, is a global media partner and publisher of the Official Show Daily publication.

More information on the event, exhibitors, hosted buyers’ required qualifications, partners, networking and educational opportunities is available on www.gibtm.com.

‘GOLF DESTINATION OF THE YEAR AFRICA & GULF STATES 2012’

IAGTO accolade boosts new ‘Golf in

Final of World’s Richest Equestrian Event, 24-26 November, Al Forsan International Sports Resort

Final of world’s richest equestrian event

NEW ‘GOLF IN ABU DHABI’ INITIATIVE TEES OFF EMIRATE’S GOLF TOURISM DRIVE

Diversity of Playing Experiences and Destination Competitiveness Underpin Scheme

Abu Dhabi, UAE. Wednesday 16^th November, 2011:Abu Dhabi unveiled its new ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ initiative – an umbrella marketing, communications, product packaging and distribution platform designed to increase the emirate’s penetration of the lucrative golf tourism segment.

The launch, spearheaded by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), came at the International Golf Travel Market (IGTM) in Antalya, Turkey.

Developed in partnership with golf clubs and relevant stakeholders including hotels and destination management companies, ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ aims to up the emirate’s ante in the global golf tourism market estimated to be worth US$17billion annually, according to the International Association of Golf Tourism Operators (IAGTO). Key source markets have been identified as the UK, Ireland, France, Italy, Germany, Scandinavia, China, Korea and Japan, with golfing to be packaged as both a primary purpose of visit and/or as part of an overall engaging destination experience.

The vehicle, with its own unique promotional identity, web portal, trade distribution and consumer booking channels, kicks off with exclusive, highly attractive rates at three championship-ready courses – Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, Abu Dhabi Golf Club (ADGC) and Yas Links Golf Club – and bundles of ancillary add-ons, such as flights, hotels and the on-the-ground transportation.

“Abu Dhabi’s golf tourism potential is immense and our competitive positioning will be considerably sharpened through active inter-stakeholder collaborations. Golf in Abu Dhabi will ensure that all of our relevant stakeholders work towards a collective objective, which is capturing the emirate a bigger slice of the global gold tourism market,” said Dayne Lim, Product Development Director, ADTA, which manages the emirate’s overall tourism industry and owns the annual European PGA Tour-backed Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship.

“For the last six years, our now globally-recognised championship has put Abu Dhabi golf on the map,” said Lim, citing the event’s annual television audience of more than 400 million international viewers. “And far from simply praising the playing conditions and weather, the tournament’s field – always among the best in the world – leaves us every year extolling the traditional Arabian hospitality they experience. Our goal now is to entice the world’s amateur players by leveraging the destination’s diversity of playing options and our other, multi-faceted tourism assets.”

“In Yas Links and ADGC, we also have two courses that have been listed in Golf World magazine’s top 100 golf courses, while our multi-year sponsorship deal with Matteo Manassero – the Italian prodigy who acts as a global golf ambassador for the emirate – is reaping global dividends for Abu Dhabi,” added Lim.

Although the capital’s three championship-ready courses – all within a 25-miute radius of each other – are mainstay products driving the programme, ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ extends to all of the emirate’s playing facilities. Additional options include an idyllic 18-hole country course at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club in the emirate’s heritage heartland; a floodlit, nine-hole urban course at Abu Dhabi City Golf Club; and a unique 18-hole sand course at Al Ghazal Golf Club.

“Our dynamic and diverse offering goes beyond the capital’s intriguing mix of parkland, ocean and Links style championship courses. With half a dozen different playing experiences, tourists visiting the emirates can play a contrasting course, with varying challenges, every day over a standard six-day break. We believe this diversity is giving us a significant competitive edge.”

Abu Dhabi’s appeal to global golf tourists is strengthened by the destination’s price competitiveness as well. Average hotel room rates dropped 14% in the first nine months of this year compared to the first nine months of 2010 to stand at around US$130.

“We have some stunning properties and the highest standards of service, I have no doubt our ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ team will ensure any golf break is a great end-to-end experience,” said Lim.

To capitalise on the emirate’s heightened affordability, a variety of ‘Golf in Abu Dhabi’ launch packages are already available, with extended ‘Golf Plus’ products – incorporating various leisure and cultural activities in personalised, golf-centric itineraries – due to come online in coming months.

MSC LIRICA ARRIVES ‘HOME’ TO ABU DHABI

UAE capital reaches cruise tourism milestone as luxury vessel home ports for 2011/2012 season

October 30, 2011 – Abu Dhabi has reached a new milestone in its cruise tourism development with the arrival at Mina Zayed’s new temporary cruise terminal of the luxury MSC Lirica cruise ship – the first to home port in the UAE capital.

The 59,000 ton MSC Lirica arrived last night from Genoa, Italy. The liner, her passengers and crew, were given a warm Abu Dhabi welcome with a spectacular fireworks display before disembarking to the cruise terminal where displays of henna design, falconry and calligraphy as well as traditional Yolla and Ayallah dancing awaited.

MSC Lirica will set sail tomorrow on the first of 19, eight day / seven night eight night itineraries for the 2011/2012 season cruising around Abu Dhabi and the Emirates and calling at Muscat, Al Fujairah, Khasab in Oman and Dubai with 95 calls and rotations. Onboard for her maiden Gulf sailing, passengers will be staying in the liner’s 780 cabins.

Today a special ceremony was staged at the cruise terminal to officially welcome MSC Lirica ‘home.’ The ceremony was attended by HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), His Excellency Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA, Pierfrancesco Vago, Chief Executive Officer, MSC Cruises, with world championship star and former Captain of the Italy National Football team Fabio Cannavaro attending as MSC Cruises’ guest of honour.

Sheikh Sultan told guests at the ceremony that MSC Lirica would be remembered for breaking new ground in Abu Dhabi. “We hope she has set a course that many others will follow,” he said. “Many of the guests MSC Lirica has brought here – and many more she will in the future – will see the UAE capital for the first time. We hope it will not be their last. Our studies show that 30% of cruise passengers return to the home port for longer stay and we look forward to welcoming these new arrivals back time and again. Investment in this temporary cruise terminal will prove worthwhile with ADTA coming together with Abu Dhabi Ports Company, Abu Dhabi Terminals and Tourism Development & Investment Company to ensure our valued cruise visitors receive an appropriate welcome.”

The home porting of MSC Lirica follows the signing, a year ago, of a landmark agreement between ADTA and MSC Cruises, one of the world’s fastest-growing cruise operators and a market leader in the Mediterranean, South Africa and Brazil, to deploy one of its top vessels on a home port basis in Abu Dhabi. Since then the two partners have jointly participated in trade exhibitions, marketing and advertising campaigns globally and brought their combined influence, channels and brands to bear in promoting the emirate.

At today’s Mina Zayed welcoming ceremony, Pierfrancesco Vago, Chief Executive Officer, MSC Cruises, commented: “I am proud of what we’ve achieved so far and confident that this is just the beginning of a great new era for cruise tourism in the United Arab Emirates. I look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship between us, the port and tourism authorities and one that will ensure visitors from around the world an exciting new dimension to travel in the region. It is a future we can all look forward to.”

“Signalling our firm faith in Abu Dhabi as an innovative and highly desirable new holiday destination, we plan to bring a further ultra-modern ship – MSC Opera – to Abu Dhabi in 2012/2013. This ship, which has a larger capacity than MSC Lirica with 867 cabins, will sail 25 cruises with 125 calls and bring a further 54,000 passengers per year to the area.”

ADTA has estimated the MSC’s decision to home port the ship in Abu Dhabi will generate up to US $ 22 million per season in direct economic impact on the tourism, airline, accommodation, retail, transport, food and beverage and attractions sectors.

Cruise tourism has been prioritized as a core pillar in Abu Dhabi’s tourism targets which aim to achieve 2.3 million hotel guests by the end of next year. Abu Dhabi anticipates receiving around 170,000 cruise visitors before the 2011/2012 season ends next April.

The new temporary cruise terminal at Mina Zayed is capable of simultaneously accommodating 1,300 passengers and has been designed to cater for the 2011/2012 and 2012/2013 cruise seasons.

The terminal spans some 2,000 square metres and comprises two dedicated halls – one a luggage-handling facility, the other a passenger centre complete with a waiting lounge, security section, prayer rooms, offices, visitor information centre, currency exchange as well as customs and immigration facilities.

In line with its long-term cruise ambitions, ADTA is championing for the development of a permanent, purpose-built cruise terminal at Mina Zayed.

“Ultimately our capacity to build the cruise tourism business will rely on a combination of good planning, first-class infrastructure, strong marketing and stakeholders,” explained
HE Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA.

“We have strong hopes of the cruise business continuing to grow into the future with longer term projections for 300 calls and 600,000 passengers by 2030.”

RUSSIAN PILOT JOINS FORD ABU DHABI WORLD RALLY TEAM FOR WRC SEASON FINALE

ADTA has agreed a one-rally deal with Evgeniy Novikov, one of off-road motorsport’s bright, young talents, to pilot Ford Abu Dhabi World Rally Team’s third Ford Fiesta RS World Rally Car at next month’s Wales Rally GB – the 2011 World Rally Championship (WRC) season finale.

F1 returns to Abu Dhabi!

2011 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is coming to Abu Dhabi 11-13 November 2011.

For the third year running the F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is returning to the stunning Yas Marina Circuit. Regarded as a season favourite by both the F1 teams and fans alike, this year’s race will be held on 11, 12 and 13 November 2011.

As the penultimate race of the season, the 2011 F1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix will again likely play a key role in deciding the 2011 Championship.

At the Yas Marina Circuit everybody is a VIP. Every ticket entitles you to a reserved undercover grandstand seat with sweeping uninterrupted views of all the action. And provides you with exclusive access to the after race concerts.

Etihad is proud to once again be the title sponsor of this major and exciting event in Abu Dhabi.

2011 Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix exclusive packages are on sale now. For more information pleaseclick here

It’s ‘plane sailing’ for Etihad Airways as Volvo Ocean Race plots course for Abu Dhabi

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has signed a multi-tiered agreement with Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) to support the emirate’s involvement in the 2011/12 Volvo Ocean Race.

The deal sees Etihad Airways’ logo featured prominently on the hull and sails of ADTA’s Volvo Ocean Race yacht, Azzam (Arabic for determination), as well as across its Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team clothing during the 2011/12 global event.

Etihad Airways also becomes presenting sponsor of the fortnight-long race stopover in Abu Dhabi, which begins on New Year’s Eve at the purpose-built ‘Destination Village’ on the Corniche Breakwater, as well as title sponsor of the In-Port Race on January 13, 2012.

The airline’s destination management company, Hala Abu Dhabi, becomes the preferred travel partner for the Abu Dhabi stopover.

“This race will take Abu Dhabi and our national carrier into key source markets where we will bring our combined market muscle to bear in optimising this unique opportunity for our mutual benefits,” said His Excellency Mubarak Al Muhairi, Director General, ADTA – which is behind Abu Dhabi’s involvement with the race.

The Volvo Ocean Race 2011/12, which begins in Alicante, Spain on October 29 and concludes in Galway, Ireland in summer 2012, is a 39,000 nautical mile, nine-month, round-the-world sailing race, taking in 10 destinations over nine gruelling legs across four oceans.

As the first-ever Arabian hosting of the Volvo Ocean Race, the stopover will bring significant exposure to Abu Dhabi through a number of enhanced promotional activities and awareness initiatives planned.

The race will also serve as a platform to showcase Etihad Airways and the UAE capital to a global audience via Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing’s pursuit of top honours in the race.

The team will make history as the first Middle Eastern challenger to enter the race, sailing its state-of-the-art Volvo Open 70 race yacht, Azzam.

James Hogan, Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Airways, said: “We are delighted to partner Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing and welcome the yachts, sailors and thousands of visitors to Abu Dhabi as they fly in from around the world on our airline to be part of the Volvo Ocean Race 2011/12 spectacle.

“Etihad Airways has a strong association with elite sport worldwide, through partnerships with Manchester City Football Club and the Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and we look forward to becoming a part of the exhilarating world of ocean racing.”

Plans are well underway for Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the Volvo Ocean Race 2011/12 yachting fleet and its thousands of fans this New Year, with a fortnight of activities scheduled around the event.

The purpose-built Destination Village will be the focal point for Abu Dhabi as it welcomes the procession of awe-inspiring racing yachts, sea hardened sailors and more than 100,000 fans for the third leg stopover of the Volvo Ocean Race. It will open free of charge to the public from December 31 2011 – January 14 2012.

ADTA has committed to a fully-packed entertainment program for the stopover, including exhibitions, shows, simulators, hospitality, game zones, restaurants and cafes, sailing academies, shops and concerts.

With Etihad Airways and Hala Abu Dhabi, ADTA is also developing tailored holiday race packages for international travellers. Visitors can look forward to these signature events during the race’s stopover in Abu Dhabi:

• Destination Village Opens: December 31, 2011
• New Year’s Eve Party @ Volvo Ocean Race Abu Dhabi Stopover: December 31, 2011
• Arrival ceremony of Volvo Ocean Race yachts: January 1-2, 2012 (approx)
• Pro-Am Race: January 12, 2012
• In-Port Race: January 13, 2012
• Departure ceremony of Volvo Ocean Race yachts: January 14, 2012

Led by double-Olympic medallist Ian Walker of Great Britain, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing is the most intercontinental team ever entered into the Volvo Ocean Race.

Representing five continents, the crew also boasts two UAE nationals – 22-year-old Olympian Adil Khalid and 27-year-old Butti Al Muhairi – who beat more than 120 hopefuls to earn their places on the sailing and shore teams respectively. Their participation will mark the first time a Gulf national has competed in this ultimate endurance race.

ABU DHABI TO SHOWCASE NEW HOTELS AND RESORTS AT WTM 2011

Abu Dhabi Premier Partnership of WTM now in its second year

Abu Dhabi will showcase new hotels and resorts opening imminently in the destination at this year’s World Travel Market, the leading global event for the travel industry.

Global brands such as Fairmont and Mandarin Oriental are all expanding their portfolios in Abu Dhabi.

Mandarin Oriental plans to open a property on Saadiyat Island in 2012 while the Fairmont Abu Dhabi is scheduled to open in 2012.

The destination is also planning to use its participation in WTM this year to forge new relationships with emerging markets such as Russia, India and Korea as well as further strengthen partnerships with existing tour operators.

Abu Dhabi is now in the second year of its three-year partnership to be the Premier Partner of World Travel Market, a Reed Travel Exhibitions event.

The destination is experiencing healthy growth in visitor numbers with an 18% overall increase in 2010 and a 22% increase to 117,836 in arrivals from the UK in 2010.

Mubarak Al Nuaimi, International Promotions Manager, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority said: “Visitors to this year’s Abu Dhabi pavilion at World Travel Market will find a host of new business opportunities in the form of brand new attractions, superb new beachfront resorts and city centre hotels as well as world-class events ideal for packaging and leveraging.

“WTM 2011 will be the travel industry’s opportunity to engage with a destination which is receiving record numbers of hotel guests and which is prioritising tourism in its long-term economic and social development plans.”

Reed Travel Exhibitions Chairman World Travel Market Fiona Jeffery said: “Abu Dhabi is booming in terms of hotel and resort openings and visitor arrivals. We’re delighted to see our strong partnership is reaping rewards for the destination and looking forward to helping it showcase its latest developments.”

AL AIN AEROBATIC SHOW 2012 TO BE STAGED OVER UAE NATIONAL DAY WEEKEND!

Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) has confirmed that Al Ain Aerobatic Show – the Oasis City’s annual aerobatics display which is held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces – will next year be held over the December UAE National Day weekend – moving from its traditional January schedule.

The 2012 event – the 10th in the annual series will take place from Friday 30 November to Sunday 2 December 2012 at Al Ain International Airport

“This new schedule, which includes the Friday/Saturday weekend and the December 2 Sunday public holiday will give UAE residents and international visitors the chance to travel to Al Ain for a long weekend break taking in the show and the other attractions in this city which has just been inscribed as a UNESCO Heritage Site for its rich archaeological and historic treasures,” said Faisal Al Sheikh, Events Manager, ADTA.

With an exciting daily programme of daring aircraft aerobatics and an activity-packed spectator village, the Al Ain Aerobatic Show has become a key fixture on ADTA’s expanding major events calendar

“Quite simply it’s a great day out for all the family with attractions for all ages,” said Al Sheikh. “And as it regularly attracts a daily attendance of upwards of 35,000 it is a fantastic vehicle for sponsors to interact with the UAE public of all nationalities.

“And, as next year will mark the show’s 10th anniversary, we are planning to introduce additional activities to commemorate the past success of this much-loved event and map out its great future.”

ABU DHABI’S VOLVO OCEAN RACE DESTINATION VILLAGE HITS CONSTRUCTION MILE-STONE

Phase two construction work has begun on the specially-designed ‘Destination Village’ – as big as eight football pitches – taking shape on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche breakwater which will this New Year host the Volvo Ocean Race yachting fleet and its many thousands of fans.

With site clearance complete, the task has begun of laying a staggering 873,000 paving stones over almost half the site, which is adjacent to the Heritage Village and overlooks Abu Dhabi’s impressive city skyline. Stone laying is due for completion at the end of next month.

Work has also started on a month-long dredging programme of the surrounding waterways to allow entry of the 4.5 metre keeled state-of-the-art race yachts, as they arrive in the UAE capital after a gruelling 5,430 nautical mile race leg from Cape Town.

And a three-phase construction programme to build permanent yacht pontoons is also underway, with installation due to begin mid-August when off-site pre-fabrication is complete. The pontoons will be a key component of the site, which will serve as a sailing centre once the Volvo Ocean Race fleet sails out of the UAE capital in mid-January.

To mark the occasion, ADTA’s Nasser Al Reyami, Director of Tourism Standards; Mubarak Al Nuaimi, International Promotions Manager; and Faisal Al Sheikh, Events Manager; laid the first paving stone, which had been specially engraved with today’s date.

“This facility will be a major infrastructure addition to Abu Dhabi’s watersports, and therefore tourism, offering,” said Al Reyami. “It will significantly enhance our credentials as a world-class winter watersports destination.”

Full infrastructure work is due for completion this September. Temporary structure build will run until December when the final phase of installing more than 130 Volvo Ocean Race team gear, hospitality and equipment containers will take place.

The ‘Destination Village’ will open free-of-charge to the public daily from December 30 this year to January 14, next year. ADTA – which also has a team in the race, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing – anticipates welcoming more than 100,000 visitors through its gates.

The highly interactive village, which will leverage the maritime theme, will be packed with activities and entertainment including exhibitions, shows, simulators, hospitality, game zones, food & beverage outlets and merchandise shops. ADTA is working with international tour operators, hotels, airlines and other stakeholders to develop compelling New Year-Volvo Ocean Race packages to the emirate.

The Volvo Ocean Race 2011/12 begins in Alicante, Spain, in October 2011 and ends in Galway, Ireland in summer next year. It is a race in which professional athletes, on-board the Volvo Open 70 racing yacht, sail around the world with the prevailing winds.

ADTA is working closely with a number of governmental and commercial bodies to successfully stage the Middle East’s first hosting of the Volvo Ocean Race, including Abu Dhabi Sailing & Yacht Club, the Official Host Yacht Club and key partner in the roll-out of the stopover and the junior sailing initiatives; and the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club, the Technical Headquarters, which will be home to the team areas, media centre, photographer centre and the international television broadcast compound.

Eighty presenters from 20 countries confirmed for 2nd Annual World Health Care Congress Middle East, 11-13 December, Abu Dhabi

More than 600 health care executives to share top perspectives on best practices for health care delivery; Conference to be held at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Abu Dhabi – 8 July 2011 The 2
nd Annual World Health Care Congress Middle East, the premier event for global health care innovation, is pleased to announce the confirmation of 80 presenters from 20 countries and spanning the full health
care industry.
In addition to several health care leaders from the Middle East region, including the nations of the Gulf Cooperative Council (GCC), the WHCC Middle East 2011 will feature executives and government officials from Europe, Asia, North America, South America and Australia. Countries to be represented include the United States, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, Canada, United Kingdom, South Korea, Thailand, Singapore, The Netherlands, Belgium, Japan, India, Spain, Australia and the United Arab Emirates.
Key international presenters include:
ƒ -Victor Dzau, MD, President and CEO, Duke University Health System, USA
ƒ -Rt. Hon. Prof. the Lord Ara Darzi of Denham KBE, Chairman, Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College, London, UK
ƒ -Suhail Al Ansari, Executive Director, Mubadala Healthcare, UAE
ƒ -Wright L. Lassiter III, Chief Executive Officer, Alameda County Medical Center and Highland Hospital,
Oakland, California, USA
ƒ -The Hon. Chin Soo Hee, Minister of Health and Welfare, South Korea

The 2011 event will move to the recently-expanded world class facility, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
WHAT: The World Health Care Congress Middle East
WHEN: December 11-13, 2011
WHERE: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
PROGRAM INFORMATION: www.worldcongress.com/me

Organized Under the Patronage of H.H. General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates’ Armed Forces and in collaboration with sovereign partners the Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD) and the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), the World Health Care Congress Middle East is the most prestigious health care event, convening global thought leaders and key decision makers from all sectors of health care to promote health care through global best practices. The 2011 program will feature new topics designed to address new innovations and challenges within the health care industry. Abu Dhabi, host of WHCC Middle East for the second consecutive year, is a global center for health care innovation.
Key topics for WHCC Middle East 2011 include:
ƒ-Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA) Health Authority Dialogue – Health Care Strategies for the Future and Evidence-Informed Health Policies
ƒ-Hospital/Health System CEO Debate on Global Health Care Models
ƒ-How Provider Systems and Technology Companies are Responding to the Implementation of Electronic Health
Records (EHR) Systems
-Building Strategic Public Private Partnerships (PPPs)
ƒ-The Promotion of Healthy Lifestyles

Other Featured presenters include:
-H.E. Prof. Mohamed Jawad Khalifeh, Minister of Health, Ministry of Health; President, Arab Health Ministers Council, Beirut, Lebanon
ƒ-Hanan S. Al Kuwari, PhD, Managing Director, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar Dr. Manar Al Moneef, Director General, Health Care and Life Sciences, Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA), Riyadh, KSA
-Zaid Al Siksek, CEO, Health Authority-Abu Dhabi (HAAD), Abu Dhabi, UAE
-Dr. Najeeb Al Shorbaji, Director, Knowledge Management, The World Health Organization (WHO), Geneva,
Switzerland
-Dr. Cristian Baeza, Director of Health, Nutrition and Population, The World Bank, Washington, DC, USA
ƒ-Prof. Abdallah S. Daar, Professor, Public Health Sciences; Professor, Surgery, University of Toronto; Senior Scientist, McLaughlin-Rotman Centre for Global Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Chair, Global Alliance for Chronic Diseases; Chair, Advisory Board, United Nations University International Institute for Global Health
-Jeff Goldsmith, PhD, President, Health Futures, Inc., Charlottesville, Virginia, USA
-Anne Milton, MP, Minister of State for Public Health, Department of Health, London, UK
ƒ-Prof. Tan Ser Kiat, Group Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Health Services Pte. Ltd., Singapore
ƒ-Prof. Didier Pittet, MD, MS, CBE, Hospital Epidemiologist, Director, Infection Control Program; WHO,
Collaborating Centre on Patient Safety, University of Geneva Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine, Geneva, Switzerland
The event will also include the 2nd Annual WHCC Middle East Health Innovations Poster Exhibit and Awards Program, which will be on display throughout the conference. The poster exhibit is part of the WHCC Health Innovations Initiative, www.whcchealthinnovations.com a year-round program that features health care innovations that improve health care while reducing costs. To submit an innovation for display and award consideration at the conference, visit www.worldcongress.com/middleeast/posters

Summer in Abu Dhabi 2011

June 30, 2011 to July 30, 2011

The expanded event’s summer promotions at various Abu Dhabi attractions start on June 15, before four multi-purpose halls at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) – triple the size of last year’s ADNEC offering – open to the public on June 30. Running until July 30, Summer in Abu Dhabi is organised by ADTA to engage UAE residents and increase inbound visitor numbers to the UAE capital during the traditionally quieter summer season.

Luxury Abu Dhabi Break For Winner Of Yacht-Naming Contest

ADNEC scoops second consecutive ‘Green Prize’ at Middle East Event Awards

Abu Dhabi: For the second year running, the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) has secured a prestigious pan-regional honour for its ‘green leadership’ in the events industry.

ADNEC was presented with the ‘Outstanding Contribution to Sustainability’ (Venue) prize, by the Middle East Event Awards jury at a ceremony held in Dubai.

“We are delighted with this award which is doubly significant as it follows on from our success last year, said Khaled Ali Al Hashemi, ADNEC’s Chief Operating Officer.

“Winning twice-in-a-row points to our unrelenting commitment to industry leadership and is a testament to our continued emphasis on sustainability in support of the Abu Dhabi’s government’s focus on the environment,” added Al Hashemi.

ADNEC’s success at the Middle East Event Awards ceremony follows other recent wins including ‘Best International Venue’ (Exhibition News Awards 2011) and ‘Middle East’s Leading Exhibition Centre’ (World Travel Awards 2011).

ADNEC has also been nominated for ‘Best International Venue,’ at the upcoming AEO Excellence Awards to be presented on July 1^st at ExCeL London as well as for ‘Sustainable Initiative of the Year,’ on the same evening.

ADNEC’s environmental leadership is built on a successful recycling programme which currently covers paper, cardboard cartons, plastic, cans, and scrap metal. In 2010, ADNEC, in collaboration with waste management solutions provider – Dulsco, recycled 123.7 tons of cardboard cartons, 92.8 tons of paper, 10 tons of plastic and 700 kg of cans. The total amount recycled (227 tons) last year was a growth of 146 per cent over the 92 tons recycled in 2009.

ADNEC’s environmental agenda is driven forward by an Environmental Task Force (ETF) comprising more than 20 members from various departments within the company. Earlier this year, ADNEC started using RFID technology for better waste management. Under this initiative trucks, waste bins and waste compactors have been embedded with RFID tags that provide precise information on the movement and management of waste generated at ADNEC. This data is accessible online by ADNEC and Dulsco, facilitating better control, supervision and coordination of waste management activities.

The ADNEC-owned Aloft Abu Dhabi hotel – interconnected with the exhibition centre, has 560 solar panels installed to cater to more than 90 per cent of its hot water requirements. This saves 870 mw/h of electricity annually. The hotel was recently awarded ‘Best New Hotel’ at the Arabian Hotel Investment Conference 2011 awards.

Abu Dhabi Remains Bang On Hotel Guest Targets

Abu Dhabi remains on course to meet its 2011 stretched hotel guest target with figures just released by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) showing improved performance across guest numbers, guest nights, occupancy revenue and length-of-stay.

The number of guests staying in the emirate’s hotels and hotel apartments rose 10% in the first four months of this year compared to the same period last year to stand at 694,181. Guest nights increased 26% to 2.1 million; room nights climbed 21% to 1.6 million while occupancy levels rose 10% to 72% and average-length-of-stay expanded 14% to just over three nights.

“It’s a solid all-round performance which we look to maintain over the coming months with our six-weeks Summer in Abu Dhabi festival incentivising visitors, particularly those from within the GCC, with a range of headline entertainment, activities, discounts and value-add deals across attractions and hotels,” said Lawrence Franklin, Strategy & Policy Director, ADTA. “We have reaped the benefits of various stakeholder initiatives including the Yas Show Weekends and the Etihad Airways-led ‘Essential Abu Dhabi’ incentive campaign, which continues to gain momentum.”

“Other forward drivers are increasing air links including this week’s launch by Cathay Pacific of four times weekly flights from Hong Kong to Abu Dhabi.”

Traditional European source markets performed well with the UK and Germany both rising 19% year-on-year to 50,846 and 24,958 respectively. Guests from France increased 35% on the same period to 17,872 while Italy increased by 20% to 11.364.

Saudi Arabia turned in yet another stellar performance from within the region with a 46% rise in guests from the Kingdom year-on-year to 19,375.

Emerging markets, such as Russia, where ADTA has activated on-the-ground representation this year produced 50% more guests than in the first four months of 2010 to stand at 5,459 while India, now ranking as the emirate’s second-largest international market, rose 29% to 33,073.

Total hotel/hotel apartment revenue for the first four months of this year rose 7% to AED1.6 billion (US $439 million) – of this room revenue accounted for AED 877,828,948 (US $239 million) which was a 5% increase on the year-to-date while food & beverage recorded an 11% increase to stand at AED576,264,725 (US $157 million).

Average room rates in Abu Dhabi in the first four months of this year dropped 15% on last year to AED545 (US $148.3) with revenue per available room falling by 6% to AED 394.42 (US $107.4).

“Though we are gearing up for more accommodation product coming on line in the third quarter, we anticipate also a surge in demand resulting from a event-packed programme which includes November’s Grand Prix, the 40th National Day celebrations in early December and our headline New Year’s Eve celebrations to coincide with our two-week hosting of the Volvo Ocean Race fleet and the activities surrounding it.”

Open Drag Racing Nights

The Yas Drag Racing Centre is the home of drag in the Middle East!
Open Drag Racing Nights provide access to the Middle East’s only approved National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) drag strip in a practice-testing format, which allows participants to unleash the power of their tuned cars and bikes in a safe and controlled environment. It’s the perfect place to have a good time and sharpen your drag skills.