Tahnoon Bin Mohammad praises Sheikh Khalifa's efforts in cultural development

Sheikh Tahnoon also praised the President's keen interest in placing Abu Dhabi at the forefront of this development through the implementation of major development projects which have enabled UAE National to enjoy high standards of living.

His Highness also praised the unlimited support of His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces and Chairman of the Executive Board of the Strategy Development in the emirate, for his keen interest in implementing major, international standard, development projects in the emirate which enable the Executive Authority to provide a unique environment for human development and the business growth.

These comments were made by HH Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohamed Al Nahyan when he was briefed by HE Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Member of the Executive Council, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority and Chairman of ADNEC, in the presence of Sheikh Hazaa Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Dhiab Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, HE Falah Mohamed Al Ahbabi, Director General, Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Authority and a number of senior officials about the proposed Al Ain Convention Centre, a new Dhs3.5bn development being planned by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company.

HH commented on the project and applauded this initiative which will make Al Ain city one of the most prominent tourism, cultural and economic attractions in the country and the region.

HH said that the establishment of the Al Ain Convention Centre will add another dimension to the tourism capabilities of Al Ain.

It will also pave the way for specialised organisations and businesses to hold their conferences and exhibitions in Al Ain, a fascinating city which is characterised by the natural environment which makes it a charming oasis in the Arabian Gulf region.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan praised the great attention given by His Highness Sheikh Tahnoon to this project and explained that the wise leadership is keen to launch tourism projects in Al Ain which assists the city's aim of becoming a high-status destination on the international tourism map.

He pointed out that the Al Ain Convention Centre, which will be located in Al Khubaisi, has a gross area of 275,000 sqm of which 230,000 sqm is assigned for investors. The centre will include a hotel and a modern conference centre at a cost of Dhs387m, also will include a cultural centre and library in addition to 21 residential buildings, serviced apartments and commercial offices.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon noted that the project serves the main objectives of the Government of Abu Dhabi by assisting the development of the Al Ain as a premier tourist and business destination in the state; it is also fully integrated with the strategy of Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, which was launched to enhance the emirate's role as a global centre of international conferences and exhibitions.