Representatives from 22 Hilton properties from Munich to Mauritius to attend ATM

A number of senior sales and marketing representatives, as well as personnel from 22 properties worldwide, will travel to Dubai especially for the event.

"This increased level of international participation is indicative of a resurgence in consumer confidence in the travel sector both regionally and worldwide. All our properties in the Middle East are taking part, as well as hotels from Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Maldives, Mauritius, Munich, Turkey, Thailand and UK," said Rudi Jagersbacher, Vice President of Operations, Hilton International.

Having long recognised the Middle East region as one of enormous potential, Hilton now operates 31 regional properties, 14 of which are in the Gulf. As one of the first international hotel chains to enter the UAE market, many of Hilton's most established regional properties are located in the UAE. Hilton Al Ain opened in 1972, the award-winning Hilton Abu Dhabi followed in 1973, this year marking its 30th anniversary, while Hilton Fujairah celebrates its 25th anniversary.

Exhibiting at ATM for the tenth consecutive year, Hilton will launch a new brand product, an ambitious summer programme while also announcing a number of regional and global marketing initiatives for 2003.

"ATM is of the utmost importance and will be utilised as a platform to kick-start activities following an uncertain first quarter in the region. As an international travel hub, Dubai is the perfect location for an exhibition such as ATM, and our representatives really look forward to a successful and productive visit," continued Jagersbacher.

Hilton is one of the most established international hotel chains in the Middle East, recognising the region's enormous tourism potential in the early 1970's. Since then, Hilton has worked with the various tourism departments to successfully implement a dynamic programme of growth and development for the area.

Hilton's ongoing commitment to quality and service has earned the company a number of high profile industry accolades this year. Receiving eleven trophies at the recent Business Traveller Awards, Hilton won first place in the Best Hotel Chain Worldwide, Europe and Middle East categories. Regional honours continued as readers of Business Traveller Middle East voted Hilton Abu Dhabi the Best Business hotel, and Middle East Travel selected Hilton Jeddah as the Best Hotel - Jeddah. A testament to its food and beverage outlets throughout the region, Hilton scooped a staggering 25 awards for culinary excellence in the first quarter of this year alone.

"Hilton's combination of in-depth regional knowledge and international hospitality expertise sets the standard. Our market knowledge is second to none and with a strong product offering and constant innovation, we intend to maintain our position as the accommodation provider of choice for many international and regional travellers to the region. Our future plans reflect our confidence, and we greatly look forward to sharing this with our travel industry partners at ATM," said Guy Epsom, Regional Director of Sales & Marketing, Arabian Peninsula, Hilton International.

The Hilton stand can be found in the Airport Expo-Dubai, West Hall, Stand number 420.

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