Ibtm Arabia 2016 is expecting to expand its MICE event for the region in 2016 as the rapid pace of change continues to have an impact on the growth of the sector.
The expansion is driven by renewed economic confidence and initial feedback has confirmed that regional buyers attending the show are seeking inspiration and access to international suppliers, which will support the growth of their outbound business to include international destinations.
Taking place at the exclusive 5-star Jumeirah at Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi (9 – 11 February), next year’s event will once again focus on maintaining the unique profile matching to ensure quality of appointments for both buyers and suppliers. All exhibitors will be able to discuss their objectives with the organizing team to ensure that they meet with the buyers who are the right profile and who are equally looking to do business with them.
Aline Ghanem, Managing Director, Exclusive Services Group Lebanon who is confirmed to attend as a Hosted Buyer at the 2016 event commented, “ By attending ibtm arabia I am looking to meet with new suppliers, familiarize myself with new destinations, and be able to return with new fresh suggestions for my clients.
“I am looking forward to connecting with professional people and exploring new possibilities. In terms of business objectives, I’m particularly interested in Europe as a destination as well as America & Latin America.”
Eslam Salem, Executive Manager, Booking Worldwide, Saudi Arabia who will also attend as a Hosted Buyer at the 2016 event commented, “ibtm arabia will give me a good opportunity to meet with the elite community of leading MICE industry suppliers and the industry’s finest MICE buyers. I’m looking forward to building strong relationships with the most important international and regional suppliers attending.
“I’m particularly interesting in sourcing suppliers from the U.S., UK, Spain, France, Austria, Germany, Italy, Greece and Turkey. I’m also interested in learning more about business opportunities with Far East suppliers including those from Japan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore and Sri Lanka.”
Meeting and conference planners confirmed to attend ibtm arabia this year will represent companies including AW Europe, Peugeot Citroen Russia, Korea Railroad Research Institute, Abbott, Cognizant, Kuoni MICE & Special Groups and Exclusive Services Group sarl.
Last year’s programme was well received with 100% of Hosted Buyers satisfied with both the quality of exhibitors and their overall event experience. ibtm arabia is run with the support of Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau and Etihad Airways.
