Destination Dubai | The Planner

An out of this world conferencing experience

Blue skies, desert dunes and sky rise buildings, this techno savvy city is all the business tourism and MICE industries can talk about these days. Why? You’re about to find out.

Dubai’s world class venues, first rate technology and outstanding infrastructure provide the perfect backdrop to an unforgettable MICE adventure. Combined with expertly trained personnel, the city’s convention and exhibition venues that have become a well-known force to be reckoned with include the Airport Expo Dubai, Atlantis The Palm, The Address Downtown Dubai, the Jumeriah Zabeel Saray Dubai and the Grand Hyatt Dubai.

The venue that undoubtedly stands out is the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). The DWTC is a leading convention centre and manages conferences and organises trade fairs used as sales platforms for leading international companies to showcase their products and offerings. The DWTC offers a variety of added benefits including media, advertising, technical and security services, in addition to its already wide and well-established range of product offerings.

Over the years, its facilities have expanded to include the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), the Convention Tower office building as well as numerous on-site accommodation options such as the Novotel and Ibis hotels and serviced accommodation at the Dubai Trade Centre Hotel Apartments.

The 37 storey building is located just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport and a 30-minute drive to the new Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International, currently under construction. This ensures hassle free transfers for delegates and easy collection of cargo to and from the exhibition arenas. Major expansion work took place in 2009 and the DWTC now offers a million square feet of versatile exhibition space. As part of the expansion, an added feature, the open area Palm Garden can be used for gala dinners or informal entertainment area as well as further restaurants and cafes that were added to the mix.

The DWTC plays an essential role in driving the successful industry of events and exhibitions in the Middle East. An impressive 10% increase in visitors was recorded during 2010 and the DWTC hosted 50% of all Dubai’s MICE events, bringing together more than 1 415 000 visitors from 155 countries and 32 781 companies from 85 countries.

It boasts a diverse range of exhibitions and expos covering a variety of topics including education, aviation, construction, food, trade and logistics, with some of its leading events being GITEX Technology Week, the Arabian Travel Market, Cityscape, Dubai International Boat Show, and the Dubai International Jewellery Week.

From world-class venues and excellent infrastructure to friendly locals and excellent activities, Dubai continues to build its excellent reputation as one of the leading MICE destinations worldwide. It offers MICE organisers a range of venues throughout the city. Next stop Dubai? Yes, yes, yes!