Global travel & tourism leaders to convene in Dubai

At the official launch, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group and Geoffrey Kent, Chairman of WTTC and Chairman & CEO of Abercrombie & Kent signed an accord establishing the industry's most significant public-private partnership.

This partnership, comprising the Government of Dubai, Emirates, Jumeirah, Nakheel and WTTC, will guide the development of the Summit; an event which will bring industry and government leaders together in Dubai to discuss the priorities for the world's largest generator of jobs and prosperity - Travel & Tourism.

His Highness welcomed WTTC and its Members to Dubai and expressed his vision for working together with international Travel & Tourism leaders to host the Summit which, he affirmed, would be a forum that would shape the future of the global industry. Geoffrey Kent said "Dubai is the world's leading example of a state that has successfully embraced Travel & Tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity. The government of Dubai is to be applauded for its long-term vision and commitment."

Khalid Bin Sulayem, Director General of Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing said:

"The hosting of this important event in Dubai fits with Dubai's vision and its plans for future growth. We plan on showcasing to the international delegates Dubai's evolution as a world-class tourism destination, our commitment towards Sustainable Tourism and our plans to introduce Corporate Social Responsibility into the tourism industry in Dubai."

"In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the Dubai Strategic Plan identifies Tourism as one of the major contributors to the Dubai economy and a crucial sector for future growth. We have taken this vision on board and aligned the Tourism Strategic Plan to that of Dubai. With this very forward thinking and visionary leadership, Tourism in Dubai and the current excellent growth is projected to continue into the future," Bin Sulayem added.

WTTC President Jean-Claude Baumgarten added "Encouraged by WTTC's signature 'in the round' format, the active participation of all delegates and the frank exchange of ideas from all countries of the world will influence decisions taken by industry leaders, assuring a long-term and responsible view of Travel & Tourism. The Summit in Dubai will provide the ideal platform to broadcast the unity of our leaders in ensuring a sustainable future."