Category Archives: Associations

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has established a hospitality education academy in Abu Dhabi, which will open in September 2024 to be managed and guided under the stewardship of Les Roches. The objective is to provide hospitality skills and academic knowledge to nurture homegrown talent in the UAE, GCC and Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Les Roches Global Hospitality’s first campus in the area will welcome its first students in September 2024. Founded in 1954 in Switzerland, Les Roches ranks fourth in the world’s higher education institutions for hospitality and leisure management (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023). The hospitality education academy will be defined by its objective to attract UAE Nationals and regional talents to the industry. The academy aims to focus on the practices and values of the UAE within its curriculum. The programme and methodology seeks to support the hospitality sector by cultivating local talent with high quality education and skills needed for the industry’s future. The academy will feature a bachelor’s degree and two master’s degrees. The curriculum includes a range of hospitality-related and practical skills certifications, across areas including hotel operations, travel, tourism, transport and entrepreneurship. His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “In line with our vision of inspiring journeys of creativity and discovery, the new academy will play a key role in ensuring the long-term sustainable growth of the hospitality industry overall, propelling future generations with a keen interest to reach their full potential. Accelerating high potential industries such as hospitality through collaboration and strategic partnerships will continue to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s growth as a dynamic and …

The industry-defining Dubai Association Centre Conference is set to return for its fourth edition, 27-28 February 2024, with the theme ‘Value Amplified: Associations Empowering Change’ and hosted under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council. Reflecting Dubai’s continued growth as a global association hub, the conference will once again provide a powerful platform for sector leaders and experts from around the world to come together and consolidate the pivotal role associations play in not only serving the needs and aspirations of their members, but also as agents of positive change within their communities and wider societies. Organised by the Dubai Association Centre and taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre, the 2024 edition will explore innovative strategies, best practices, and collaborative approaches to create tangible and lasting value for communities and societies. Targeted at association executives and stakeholders who play a crucial role in leadership and management, including government officials and strategic partners, the conference aims to contribute to the immediate civic, economic and social development of the region. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism and Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, said: “Through the Dubai Association Centre Conference, the city has consistently demonstrated a commitment to not only developing a vibrant association community here, but also offering a platform to navigate change and forge new paths for the sector globally. As Dubai’s own economy continues to evolve to meet the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda – D33 – the city will provide an ideal setting to explore the theme around empowering change, and we look forward …

The Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International – Middle East (HSMAI ME) announced the 6th ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference with TravTalkME as media partner. This year’s event will be held at the Conrad Dubai Hotel from November 28 to November 29, 2023 to boost the Middle East’s hospitality sector. With the finest leading industry leaders under one roof, this year’s conference aims to take the Middle East hospitality sector to the next level where attendees can expand their network by connecting with trailblazers and peers, gain insights from seasoned professionals and learn about the latest trends and strategies. “The 6th annual ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference is a unique gathering of industry pioneers, where competitors unite to shape the future and elevate their skills. It’s the pulse of innovation in the hotel industry, bringing together all the commercial thought leaders from sales, marketing, revenue management, distribution, hotel brands, and owner groups here in the region to share current and future trends. The conference will feature a range of topics, discussions, and best practices, led by world-class regional and international experts,” said Mona Faraj, Managing Director of the Middle East chapter of HSMAI. “This year’s ROC Middle East Commercial Strategy Conference is more than just an event; it is a catalyst for innovation and collaboration in the hospitality industry with global standards in mind. Here, we break down competitive barriers and come together as a community, committed to setting new standards of excellence and driving the future of hospitality forward,” added Robert A. Gilbert, CHME, CHBA, President and CEO, Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI). “We at Atomize are honored to be the Platinum Sponsor and delighted …

Kuwait Airways opened the Arab Air Carrier’s Organization (AACO) meeting on digital transformation in the aviation sector, which was organized in the State of Kuwait, in the presence of various experts and specialists in the air transport sector during the period from 5- 6 September 2023. The meeting discussed the latest mechanisms for digital transformation and artificial intelligence and focused on the methods to develop and improve this aspect in the air transport sector, as well as to follow the most important methods in the Middle East region. Kuwait Airways Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Maen Razouqi, welcomed the attendees and stated, “We are pleased to host this important meeting, which is being held in the State of Kuwait. This conference highlights the most important aspects of digital transformation and artificial intelligence solutions, and the methods to use them in accordance with the latest standards for the air transport sector around the world. This will contribute significantly to the development of the aviation sector in general, which will ultimately benefit the travel traffic and valued passengers.” Razouqi continued by saying, “Kuwait Airways is keen to follow the latest technology and methods used in developing and improving the company’s system, be it in terms of finding smarter digital solutions that facilitate procedures for valued customers, or electronic services that the company has recently launched. Kuwait Airways always strives towards achieving the strategic objectives that it has drawn up until 2030, to keep pace with the best technology in the aviation sector.” Razouqi said, “With regard to sustainability, Kuwait Airways recognizes the significance of this aspect, and has released its annual sustainability report, highlighting the company’s commitment to the principles of sustainability, transparency, …

Expo Centre Sharjah has participated in the ICCA Middle East Summit 2023, which took place from August 30-31 at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre under the theme “Forging a Collective Path to a Prosperous Future.” During the event, HE Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, Chairman of the Arab Union for Exhibitions, and board member of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry engaged in discussions with several CEO attendees, exploring avenues for strengthening strategic cooperation with association members to further the development and sustainability of the sector, initiate collaborative exhibitions and conferences, and broaden the prospects of the industry. HE Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, Chairman of the Arab Union for Exhibitions, and board member of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, represented the centre in the summit to boost regional collaboration in the exhibitions and conferences sector and explore future opportunities and developments that solidify the sector’s contribution to economic expansion. Al Midfa also introduced a working paper highlighting the significance of the exhibition and conference sector on both regional and global scales. He emphasized its central role in bolstering economies, augmenting commercial activities, and widening the scope of economic and trade collaborations among individuals, businesses, and nations. He underscored that the global exhibition sector’s valuation, surpassing $151 billion, underscores its relevance to the world economy. Meanwhile, in the Middle East and North Africa, the sector’s worth is projected to escalate from $53.63 billion in 2022 to an impressive $76.67 billion by 2028. His Excellency shed light on the exceptional development and growth seen in the exhibitions and conferences sector within the GCC countries, with the UAE standing out notably. …

The third ICCA Middle East Summit – with TravTalk Middle East as media partner – concluded after two days of great insights, updates, and networking opportunities with industry experts from across the globe. The event was inaugurated by H.E. Azzan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Oman Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, with Dr. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA opening the session with an inspiring speech. Khalid Al Zadjali, ICCA Middle East Chapter Chair, radiated excitement as he took on the role of host for the very first time, setting an electrifying tone for the entire summit. There were many sessions which left both experts and audience inspired by the prospect of hosting more business events in various Middle East destinations. Khalid Al Zedjali, Director of Oman Office of Conference at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, stated, “By organizing this event, we aimed at exploring the various means in which the local associations can further improve their operations, strengthen member services and make a more impactful contribution to their industries and communities by leveraging the valuable insights with best practices for international associations. Further, there were also many key areas where local associations can benefit from the experience and expertise of their international counterparts”. Al Zedjali added that it is important for the local associations to maintain the strong bonds with the international networks, to participate in conferences and events and to search proactively for learning and cooperation opportunities with their international peers. By doing so, local associations can improve their performance and create value addition to their members and stakeholders. The event included three different sessions. The first session “Building Resilient Communities” explored the vital role that ICCA (the …

Abu Dhabi has won the bid to host the 63rd International Congress and Convention Association Congress. Taking place from 20-23 October 2024 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the event will reaffirm Abu Dhabi’s position as an international hub for major MICE events. Abu Dhabi’s growing prominence as a preferred destination for global and regional businesses and tourists is evident with the delivery of more than 1,200 MICE events catering to 603,000 visitors throughout 2022 facilitated by the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi. With Abu Dhabi International Airport serving as a hub for over 23 airlines connecting to more than 114 destinations, the emirate ensures convenient travel options for attendees. The International Congress and Convention Association is a knowledge hub and an advocate for the international association meetings industry. Part of its mission is to offer global entities education, connections, tools and resources to help them organise more effective and successful meetings. His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, said: “It is an honour to be able to host the ICCA Congress in Abu Dhabi, which demonstrates the emirate’s growth as a MICE destination. This win has been possible due to the collective support from key stakeholders such as Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre as well as other local and regional partners. Through our commitment to forging strategic partnerships, we have positioned Abu Dhabi as a dynamic hub where businesses prosper and innovation thrives. By offering a wide array of distinct venues, hotels and year-round cultural, leisure and entertainment options, we deliver travel and business …

In an historic first, the world’s two leading Travel & Tourism organisations representing the global public and private sectors agreed to work together across a number of key objectives. The Memorandum of Understanding, signed by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) and the World Tourism Organization of the United Nations (UNWTO) at the G20 Ministerial meeting (Goa, India), focused on advancing public-private sector cooperation at the global level whilst promoting job creation, talent development and business opportunities around the world. Together, WTTC and UNWTO will promote tourism in the global and national agendas while working to progress skills, innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment and the transition towards a more sustainable and resilient Travel & Tourism sector. The two parties will also foster community empowerment and inclusion, and collaborate around crisis preparedness, management, and recovery, building on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. Julia Simpson, WTTC President & CEO said “Through the signing of an historic new MOU, WTTC and UNWTO embark on a new chapter of collaboration together, uniting our expertise to pave the way for a prosperous future for the Travel & Tourism sector. Together, we can create a powerful synergy that will shape the global landscape, opening doors to endless opportunities and benefiting travelers, businesses, and destinations alike.” Zurab Pololikashvili, UNWTO Secretary-General, underscored that “We are only stronger if we work together to respond to the interconnected challenges facing our sector. Strong public-private partnerships are the foundation to transform tourism and build resilience, and consolidating our partnership with WTTC will achieve exactly what we need – joining efforts to build a better future through tourism.” The MOU was signed by WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson and …

SAUDIA hosted the 94th Executive Committee meeting of the Arab Air Carriers’ Organization (AACO) in Jeddah. The meeting was chaired by His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group and Chairman of AACO’s Executive Committee, in the presence of Mr. Abdul Wahab Teffaha, AACO Secretary General, along with Chairpersons and CEOs from the Committee member Arab airlines. The Executive Committee oversees AACO’s overall work, with a focus on collaborative projects among its members. The Committee’s meeting sets the path for the 56th Annual General Meeting, which will be hosted in Riyadh between October 30 and November 1, 2023. The meeting discussed the current state of the industry, including the recovery of the aviation sector and the increasing travel demand following the COVID-19 crisis. It also highlighted the world’s latest geopolitical challenges and their impacts, while delving into significant issues related to the environment and aviation. The meeting focused on the importance of digital transformation and developing innovative solutions that enable the airlines to improve their services and offer better experiences to their customers. Additionally, the Committee reviewed the latest developments of the current joint projects between AACO members, and some administrative and financial affairs for the organization. His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group and Chairman of AACO’s Executive Committee said: “AACO is diligently working to empower Arab airline companies, advocate for their common interests, and facilitate their collaboration to improve their operational efficiency and service quality. AACO also ensures ongoing coordination with related regulatory authorities to support its member airlines and preserve their interests, along with launching joint projects to improve efficiencies and reduce costs for its members, in line with applicable laws. “I …

The Emirates Group and the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA) are set to collaborate in the launch of a training programme for the airline’s Emirati Country Managers. The innovative programme is designed to enhance the diplomatic skills of managers who are stationed around the world, and forms part of the Group’s new Commercial Ambassador Leadership Programme. A ceremony to celebrate the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was held at the Emirates Group headquarters, attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the President of the UAE, Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, and Member of the Board of Trustees at AGDA, along with senior executives and representatives of both organisations. The MoU was signed by Amira Al Falasi, Emirates Group’s Vice president, Human Resources, Learning and Talent, and Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Dhaheri, AGDA’s Deputy Director General. The AGDA’s 5-day programme will provide Emirati Country Managers with a comprehensive understanding of the diplomatic skills needed to effectively represent the Emirates Group abroad, and to achieve their business and commercial objectives. The series of tailored and practical training courses will also serve as a platform for knowledge exchange to enrich Emirati managers’ capabilities in the aviation sector. His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed said, “The Emirates Group is a global company based in Dubai. We are proud to represent the UAE’s aviation sector and we work to promote the UAE in all the markets in which we operate. In AGDA we have found a like-minded partner, and we believe our collaboration will further develop and empower our team of …