DTCM launches sponsorship scheme for leisure events

Dubai’s Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) launched a new sponsorship scheme to drive continued innovation and sustainability across Dubai’s events industry. Reaffirming Dubai’s position as a global events hub, the scheme is designed to further empower leisure event organisers with additional incentivisation opportunities in the form of event sponsorship. The new process will build on the growth and competitiveness of the city’s event sector, which recorded an increase of over 100,000 ticket sales and 25 additional events in the first quarter of 2019 when compared to the same period last year.

Continuing to effectively showcase Dubai’s proposition as a host city for international events from around the world, the scheme will target entertainment events and will be applicable for events that are ticketed and open to the public, with an eligible leisure event permit. With state-of-the-art venues across the city, Dubai is well placed to compete on the global stage to host international events, as it continues to grow its reputation as a world leading leisure and entertainment destination. The scheme will work in conjunction with the department’s ticketing and permits services to streamline management and coordination of event licensing activities and provide greater operational efficiency.

His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Tourism, said, “The sponsorship scheme forms part of our commitment to retain the city’s status as a leading global event destination and has been designed to build on this momentum and act as a catalyst for the local events industry.” The sponsorship scheme, which will directly support leisure event organisers, will take effect for events being held from May 1, 2019 through an online application process. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, commented, “Dubai’s events sector is continuing to grow at an impressive rate, with its sustainable and engaging offerings playing a vital role in growing our tourism numbers and driving the city’s competitiveness for global audiences.”