Dubai participates in a big way in GIBTM 2007

The three-day fair was opened by His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) and ADNEC, in the presence of the DTCM Director General, Mr. Khalid A bin Sulayem, and other VIPs.

Taking place on 3950 square metre exhibition space at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the debut event attracted 200 companies and 218 hosted buyers.

Organised by Reed Exhibitions and supported by ADTA, Eithad Airways and Net Conferences and Conventions, the GIBTM has been designed as a place to learn, gather and exchange information, create new relationships and conduct MICE business.

The exhibition features 55 main stands, including the 364-square-metre Dubai Stand which features 16 booths by the co-participants including the Dubai Convention Bureau (DCB).

Sheikh Sultan toured the Dubai Stand during the opening ceremony. Present on the occasion were Mr. bin Sulayem, and other DTCM officials, including the Director Operations and Marketing, Mr. Mohammed Khamis bin Hareb, DTCM Manager Media Relations, Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman, DTCM Manager Overseas Promotions, Mr. Khalifa Ali Buamaim.

Mr. bin Sulayem briefed him about the DTCM initiatives to promote the emirate as business and leisure destination, utilizing various exhibitions in overseas markets.

He said Dubai tourism industry players have extended enormous support to the DTCM in promoting the MICE industry to the outside world through the GIBTM. This was reflected strongly in the number of co-participants from Dubai for the debut event.

According to the findings of a pioneering research survey, done by Reed Travel Exhibitions and MICE International magazine, released at the GIBTM, Dubai will hold on to its top position in the near future as a sought-after MICE destination.

The survey covered 16 destinations in the region, but Dubai scored the highest 84 per cent favorite with the MICE industry respondents appreciation various factors including the costs, quality of accommodation, quality of service, meeting facilities and venue availability.

The Dubai Stand has been utilized to highlight the rich culture and heritage of the emirate, including a typical Bedouin outdoor gathering and traditional weaving methods.

The DTCM Manager Overseas Promotions, Mr. Khalifa Ali Buamaim, said the response from the global tourism industry in general and MICE segment in particular has been encouraging.

Similarly, the DTCM Manager Media Relations, Mr. Eyad Ali Abdul Rahman said the media interest in Dubai has been growing stronger and the DTCM has been utilizing the GIBTM to create further awareness about the emirate and its MICE strengths through the print and broadcast media.