Arabian Travel Market launches international award

The award, which will be presented at an exclusive ceremony during the traditional exhibitors' party, will be given to the destination that has made an outstanding contribution to tourism development in the face of overwhelming adversity.

An independent panel of international judges is currently being recruited, which will represent international charities, global travel and tourism associations and delegates from leading travel and business publications as well as broadcast media professionals. After an exhaustive worldwide search for potential candidates, the panel will short-list the three destinations whom in their opinion, have above all others, made an indelible impact on tourism development, against all the odds.

The concept for the award was borne out of the remarkable achievements that we have observed in the last twelve months. To see destinations and countries overcome disasters to get back on their feet has been humbling and awe inspiring. Arabian Travel Market team wanted to recognise these achievements and help in a practical and enduring manner.

Tom Nutley, Chairman of Reed Travel Exhibitions said, "We are proud to announce the launch of the New Frontiers Award 2006. The aim is to recognise those who are prevailing through some of the harshest conditions and most difficult circumstances, whether man-made or natural disasters".

The recipient will be announced during a special awards ceremony at the Arabian Travel Market's annual exhibitors' party, which will be held on May 2nd 2006 at the Grand Hyatt Dubai. The unique prize consists of a magnificent trophy and a truly innovative reward. Representatives of the winning destination will be invited to attend a special ceremony in Dubai and rewarded with free exhibition space at World Travel Market in London, Mediterranean Trade Fair in Cairo and Arabian Travel Market in Dubai. The reward is both a pragmatic and valuable contribution to their marketing efforts for their destination.

Nutley added, "We wanted to make a practical contribution to the further development of the tourism industry in those destinations that have overcome adversity to contribute to tourism and at the same time clearly demonstrate our commitment to our own corporate social responsibility. Providing exhibition space at three of the industry's key events will give the selected destination a unique opportunity to make direct contact with major international tour operators and potentially the benefits could be unlimited".