Irish trade partners make a noteworthy UAE visit

The 4-day trade mission was noteworthy as the trade partners including Dublin Tourism, Adams and Butler, Good Food Ireland and The Irish National Stud were met by more than 100 agents from various travel agencies throughout the UAE. The visiting trade partners took advantage of the opportunity to present their products and services to the participating travel agents in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Sharjah and Dubai.

Etihad Holidays, Omeir Travel, Kanoo Travel and the Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau were among the 13 travel agencies visited in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain during the first two days of the mission which commenced last 24th of February; 3 agencies were visited in Sharjah and 29 representatives from 12 agencies in Dubai attended the trade workshop organized by Tourism Ireland on the 27th of February, 2008 held at the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (DUCTAC). Two Irish Trade partners who have local representation, Starwood Hotels Group and the Four Seasons Hotel in Ireland attended the workshop, have gladly met with the agents and provided answers to their enquiries as well.

The mission concluded with a cocktail reception at the Pool Bar of the Kempinski Hotel, Mall of the Emirates in Dubai where the Irish ambassador to the GCC, Mr. Tom Russell delivered a speech to thank all the participants. Two competitions to win a "Trip to Ireland" were held—one at the workshop and one at the reception; prizes were provided by Tourism Ireland and the participating Irish trade partners.

Tourism Ireland and the Irish trade partners were very pleased with the response of the local travel trade and the turnout of the entire mission. With the event ending on a positive note, Siobhan Byrne, Director of Adams and Butler says,

"Tourism Ireland did a fantastic job arranging this trade mission. We are delighted to have discovered this market as we specialize in high-end and in tailor-made itineraries. We believe the market is ripe for producing, in particular for Dublin. The agents were pleased to learn that Ireland is such a family-friendly destination with lots of stimulating activities for children and various accommodation options for large families."

After meeting with the visiting trade partners and listening to their presentations, Shibly Shah from Al Naboodah Travel commented,

"Ireland definitely has the potential to be developed as an exotic destination from Dubai. It is an ideal destination for a family, who wish to sample the Irish laid back, quiet and calm lifestyle. It is also ideal for golf holidays, and can be considered as a top European destination!"