Adnec wins "Best International Venue" at International Confex 2009 in London

International Confex is Europe's leading exhibition for event organisers, bringing together the people responsible for organising live events, with leading venues from around the world. The annual awards recognise high performance, excellence and innovation within this industry.

His Excellency Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Chairman of Adnec, said:

"The international live events industry has now officially recognised Adnec as the world's best venue. This award is only possible because of the very strong government support which ensures a fully coordinated approach to exhibitions and conferences in Abu Dhabi. This federal support has allowed Adnec to develop at a rapid pace, attracting new international organisers to Abu Dhabi and greatly enhancing the emirate's business tourism potential."

Adnec beat off tough competition from North and Central America; Western, Central and Eastern Europe; South East Asia and the GCC to win the prestigious award.

Simon Horgan, Adnec CEO, said, "Over the last four years, Abu Dhabi has invested heavily to create an environment for live events to flourish. The successful development of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre has been a critical factor in bringing high quality international event organisers to the UAE capital to create world-class events which serve the rapidly expanding markets of the Arabian Gulf region. Awards such as this are recognition of the Abu Dhabi government's vision, the drive of Adnec's partners and the endless enthusiasm of our employees."

Jane Risby Rose, Managing Director of International Confex organiser United Business Media, said, "Adnec has transformed the exhibition industry in the Middle East to a position where the rest of the world now looks to the Gulf for inspiration and innovation. I am delighted that we have recognised Adnec's significant achievements in developing the world's leading exhibition and convention venue."

Adnec recently completed the development of its exhibition facilities to create the Gulf's largest exhibition and conference centre with a total indoor exhibition space of 73,000sqm.