Dubai Crown Prince opens biggest ever Arabian Travel Market

Speaking after opening the largest-ever Arabian Travel Market, the Middle East's premier travel and tourism show, which runs at the Dubai World Trade Centre until Friday night, HH Sheikh Mohammed commented: "The growth in this show reflects Dubai's strong position on the international tourist map.

"We have achieved a great deal of progress and have gained much experience in the tourism sector and we are ready to help other countries to utilize this experience."

HH Sheikh Mohammed toured Arabian Travel Market 2005 along with Tom Nutley, Chairman, Reed Travel Exhibitions (RTE) and a large VVIP contingent. In the VVIP delegation were: HH Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Information and Culture; HE Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saif Al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Civil Aviation; HH Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Department of Civil Aviation, Government of Dubai and Chairman of the Emirates Group; H.E. Sheikh Hasher Bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Director General, Dubai's Department of Information.

HH stopped at many of the stands at ATM to be briefed on new emerging projects. He spent several hours at the show, which this year features 1,800 exhibitors from 63 countries. It takes up 31% more floor space than last year.

In a welcome message to exhibitors and visitors, HH said: "The travel industry is a great economic force - the world's largest employer. We all have an immense interest in its success as it is more than just an economic generator. It is an educator - a means to broaden our minds and gain a greater understanding of different countries and communities.

"Arabian Travel Market for the second year running has been named 'Exhibition of the Year' by Reed Exhibitions, the owning company of RTE, which organizes this event. The title was bestowed upon it after tremendous feedback from exhibitors who commented on the quality of its organization, visitor profile and the capacity for business generation. I would like to congratulate Reed Travel Exhibitions on this achievement."

Arabian Travel Market 2005 is open to trade only visitors on May 4 and 5. It will be open to the public on Friday, May 6 from 4pm with the Dhs 5 entrance fee being donated to the Reed Travel Exhibitions' supported charity 'Just A Drop' to provide clean water for Tsunami victims. Children under 16 will be allowed into the show free of charge on Friday providing they are accompanied by an adult.