Category Archives: Exhibitions

The 38th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) concluded after a record turnout of 2.52 million visitors through the 11-day event, organised by Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). The event witnessed the participation of Nobel laureates, Booker Prize and Oscar winners, along with 2,000 publishers from 81 countries. On November 7, 2019, SIBF set a Guinness World Record for successfully hosting the world’s largest simultaneous book signing ceremony in one location with 1,502 authors from the UAE and beyond signing their own books. To further expand the reach of books in the Middle East and African continents, SBA partnered with Big Bad Wolf Ventures Sdn. Bhd. (BBW) to set-up a regional branch at Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone. Under this new agreement, 1 billion books will be circulated across MEA countries over the next five years to widely introduce the literary products of individual nations to promote cultural exchange and appreciation. Sharjah Ruler allocates AED 4.5 million for purchase of books at SIBF 2019; His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah allocated AED 4.5 million for the acquisition of a selection of titles, brought in by publishers participating in SIBF 2019, to continuously update the emirate’s libraries with valuable reading materials and resources in history, literature, politics, arts, science, technology in Arabic and international languages. HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of SBA, said, “SIBF has grown to become one of the top three book fairs in the world, an event that publishers, authors, book lovers, and children wait a whole year to participate in. This 11-day cultural celebration is born out of the vision of HE Sheikh Dr. …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has unveiled the exhibit that showcases Abu Dhabi’s best offerings to visitors at World Travel Market (WTM) participation in London. The show saw a hive of activity that took place on the DCT Abu Dhabi stand, including a visit from His Excellency Mansoor Abulhoul, UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom, as well as numerous stakeholder meetings occurring throughout the day. In the evening, DCT Abu Dhabi representatives and a number of stakeholders attended the inaugural UAE Ambassadors dinner at the Bulgari Hotel London, to forge closer relationship amongst the emirates. The annual DCT Abu Dhabi on-stand breakfast was also held on Tuesday morning, with many trade and media representatives in attendance. The exhibition involves 36 of DCT Abu Dhabi’s key partners, such as Etihad Airways and Experience Hub, showcasing the diverse portfolio of attractions the city has to offer across the culture, entertainment and luxury sectors. Ali Hassan Al Shaiba, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at DCT Abu Dhabi said, “WTM is a great opportunity for us to promote Abu Dhabi as a premium tourism destination to travel trade stakeholders across the globe.” Abu Dhabi stakeholders participating in the event includes Etihad Airways, Experience Hub, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Qasr Al Watan, Qasr Al Hosn, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts, Park Hyatt, The Ritz Carlton, Rotana Hotels and Resorts, The Westin Abu Dhabi and Yas Marina Circuit.

VFS Global has been named as an official ticket reseller for Expo 2020 Dubai to be held in the UAE between October 20, 2020 and April 10, 2021. Sanjive Khosla, Chief Commercial Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai, and Zubin Karkaria, CEO, VFS Global Group, signed the contract on October 20, 2019 in Dubai. VFS Global will be offering a range of packages with suggested itineraries that include single and three-day passes to visit Expo 2020 Dubai. Customers who opt to submit their visa application through the premium lounge, or hold a VFS Global Privilege Program membership, can also enjoy discounts on the packages they purchase. Zubin Karkaria, CEO, VFS Global Group said, “We have enjoyed a long-standing relationship with the UAE, one that has grown to strength over the years. We are proud to be an official ticket reseller for Expo 2020 Dubai and look forward to extending our new, special range of packages to customers.” Sanjive Khosla, Chief Commercial Officer, Expo 2020 Dubai, said, “Having VFS Global on board puts us in a great position to meet our ambitious targets and draw 25 million visits through the gates of the world’s greatest show. Expo 2020 is going to be the greatest celebration of human brilliance and achievement, and VFS Global will help make sure everyone in the world has the opportunity to experience it.”

Arabian Travel Market (ATM) has launched a new series of buyer forums and networking events focused on India, Saudi Arabia, China and Russia’s growing outbound potential, as Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) travel and tourism companies and destinations look to attract a larger share from these major source markets. Following the successful launch of the ‘Arabia China Tourism Forum’ at ATM 2019, these new forums and networking events have been designed to explore the untapped opportunities that India, Saudi Arabia, China and Russia’s expanding tourism markets present. As part of the networking sessions, ATM will be inviting 150 hosted buyers from India, China, Russia, and the Middle East as well as partnering with CBN Travel & MICE once again to bring an additional 84 new buyers from China. Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, ATM, said, “Identifying the key players in the top source markets, along with current and emerging industry trends are two of the most valuable insights ATM has to offer. Therefore, the 2020 edition will continue to follow that successful model with a packed agenda, including new forums, networking opportunities, and an engaging seminar program. Over recent years, in particular, the sentiment at ATM has reflected the growth in these tourists to the Middle East and as we look ahead to the 2020 edition of the show we are seeing more hotel and travel professionals than ever before eager to capitalise on the significant opportunities presented by these key markets.” The data predicts an above-average annual growth rate for both Russian and Chinese arrivals to the UAE, with the number of Russian tourists expected to increase at a Compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12% to 1.6 million and …

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has announced the dates of the fourth edition of the annual Sea Festival, which will be held at Marassi Beach for a period of 10 days from November 7-16. First launched in 2016, the Sea Festival celebrates the Kingdom’s historical ties to the sea, seeking to educate modern-day visitors and tourists on the Kingdom’s deeply-rooted past and revive the Kingdom’s sea legacy by showcasing several sea-related traditions and activities. BTEA continues its efforts to showcase the Kingdom of Bahrain as the ideal tourism destination for families which offers a unique experience to visitors of all ages. This year’s edition of the Sea Festival will include a number of attractions such as water sports activities, boat rides, traditional music performances, handicrafts, and pearl merchants. There will also be plenty of entertainment during the Festival with an amazing on-stage Sea World Performance (Cirque De La Mer) alongside a museum, outdoor cinema and an interactive play area for kids. The Sea Festival aligns with the BTEA’s overall strategy which aims at developing and strengthening the tourism sector under the slogan ‘Ours. Yours’, which contribute towards the Kingdom’s economy and 2030 Economic Vision.

Events for Tourism Growth will be adopted as the official show theme for Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2020, taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre from April 19-22, 2020. According to data from the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), the direct contribution of travel and tourism to the Middle East’s GDP is predicted to rise by 4.2 per cent per annum to US $133.6 billion by 2028 – driven in part by additional tourists to the region as a result of mega-events, major sporting and political events, cultural festivals, concerts and MiCE events.  Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said, “Events of all kinds have become increasingly important drivers for international arrivals to the UAE, GCC and wider MENA region over recent years.  With this in mind, ATM 2020’s spotlight theme will be launched as a platform to explore the impact events have on tourism growth in the region and to inspire the travel and hospitality industry about the next generation of events, while bringing together senior travel executives to meet and conduct business under one roof over four days.” ATM, considered by industry professionals as a barometer for the Middle East and North Africa tourism sector, welcomed almost 40,000 people to its 2019 event with representation from 150 countries. With over 100 exhibitors making their debut, ATM 2019 showcased the largest ever exhibition from Asia.

Leisure Moscow will celebrate the 25th edition from September 10-12 at Expocentre Fairgrounds. One of the key programmes this year is the international forum for tourism industry professionals and experts. The theme will be new destinations and territory marketing. The new generation of tourists and digital technologies inspire changes in the travel industry that require a flexible approach. There will be emerging of new niches and increasing competition between routes and regions. What is the next step in the industry development, and how to predict trends? What destinations will be relevant? What prospects have been opened by the event tourism over the past 5 years (on the example of Sochi 2014, 2018 FIFA World Cup)? How the cultural tourism develops? These and other topics will be discussed by experts and professionals during all three forum days. Last year, the exhibition attracted 870 exhibitors from 41 countries and 44 Russian regions with 38,303 visits in 15 000 sqm exhibition area with 287 media attendees and 80 media partners.

In line with its commitment to play a key role in further advancing Dubai’s leadership in global trade and e-commerce, Dubai South brought to the spotlight the emirate’s advanced logistics connectivity and innovation among a global network of transport, logistics, mobility, IT and supply chain management companies when it participated at the Transport Logistic Exhibitions in Munich from June 4 to 7, 2019. It showcased major projects under Dubai South’s Logistics District which provide various business solutions. Dubai continues to lead globally in terms of attracting foreign direct investments (FDI) as it increased by 41% in 2018, valued at AED 38.5 billion considering its pioneering efforts in innovation and digital transformation. From 2015 to 2018, the emirate has attracted a total of USD 21.6 billion worth of FDI in advanced technology transfers. It also continues to surpass leading economies such as the US, UK and South Korea in the Smart Service Index, having achieved sixth position in the global rankings. Dubai South’s multi model Logistics District provides seamless access to seaports, airports and major roads, reflecting its advanced connectivity and flexibility. It has created various solutions such as ready-to-occupy and built-to-suit options for various types of business operations such warehouses and distribution centers.  As well offering various office solutions through its facilities at The Business Park, a complex of 11 modern buildings equipped with state-of-the art amenities just right at the entrance of Dubai South. Commenting on the participation, Mohsen Ahmad, CEO, Dubai South’s Logistics District, said, “Participating at the Transport Logistic Exhibitions brings a lot of enthusiasm for Dubai South as we anticipate positive responses to our latest projects in the Logistics District. These initiatives are designed to offer …

Great value ticketing at Expo 2020 Dubai will open doors to a world of fun, culture, entertainment and innovation, and ensure the six-month spectacular is a global celebration for all. A single-day adult (18 and above) ticket will cost AED 120 (USD 33), while a three-day pass, which can be used on any three days during the 173 days of the Expo, will be priced at AED 260 (USD 71), organisers announced. A ticket will give its holder access to a once-in-a-lifetime experience, including 60 live shows a day, future-shaping technologies, performances from world-famous artists, daily parades, cutting-edge architecture, special celebrations and more than 200 F&B outlets serving a world of cuisines. Expo 2020 will offer a range of concessions, including free access for children aged five and under and seniors aged 65 and above. Youth aged six to 17 and students of any age will receive 50 per cent discount, while people of determination will be granted complimentary access, with their carers entering for half price. The Expo School Programme also will offer specially-curated journeys for school students of all ages to excite and educate them on the Expo sub-themes. Sanjive Khosla, Deputy Chief – Sales and Marketing, Expo 2020 Dubai, said, “We aim to be a World Expo that is accessible to all and believe the ticket prices and concessions will help us achieve that ambition. We can’t wait to welcome millions of visitors from around the globe, as we make every effort to ensure that our welcome is warm and reflective of the rich Arabic tradition of hospitality.” Single-day and three-day tickets will be offered to international travellers in bundled packages to be sold by Authorised Ticket …

There was a high level of engagement between exhibitors and buyers at the IMEX show. “This has been an outstanding week of business, learning and experiences to stir the imagination,” said Ray Bloom, Chairman of the IMEX Group, as IMEX in Frankfurt 2019 came to a close. “The spectacular destinations and venues, the investment in sensational, creative stand designs and the great energy in the hall have created an inspiring environment to do business and to learn;  and from all the business being done, there is evidently a strong, positive, forward-looking mood at the show and optimism around the industry.” Close to 70,000 individual and group appointments were made with 72 per cent having a mini RFP attached. For Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, the experiences in the new Discovery Zone, the fresh ideas in the Red Lab and the new technology have stood out