Tag Archives: Issam Kazim

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with IHG Hotels & Resorts to further enhance the destination’s offerings and visitor experience. The agreement encompasses joint marketing initiatives, training programmes for hospitality professionals, and the creation of new tourism experiences. Establishing a framework for further collaboration and alignment between the two entities, the agreement will see DET and IHG Hotels & Resorts work together on marketing and promotional campaigns, while the hotel group will also actively highlight Dubai as a premier tourist destination through its own marketing channels and social media platforms. In addition, the two entities will collaborate to create and enhance tourism products that showcase Dubai’s unique attractions, including cultural heritage tours and seasonal offers, which will be integrated into special packages that cater to different markets. The MoU was signed by His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of DET, and Haitham Mattar, Managing Director – India, Middle East and Africa, IHG Hotels & Resorts. It highlights DET’s ongoing commitment to working with regional and global hospitality brands to foster innovation and industry excellence, and is aligned with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure. Through the MoU, employees at IHG Hotels & Resorts will be able to participate in training courses, offered by DET’s Dubai College of Tourism, and hotel staff will also have access to relevant resources and experts. These encompass specialised training sessions, workshops, and certification programmes, designed to equip employees with the latest industry knowledge and best practices. Another major focus …

Dubai Association Conference (DAC) will return for its third edition on 21 February 2022, with a series of events in the lead up to maximise its impact and create platforms for associations as they explore the future of the sector. The conference will once again be 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. With the theme ‘Associations and the new world: Resilience & Reinvention’, the conference will take place at the new Dubai Exhibition Centre, within the Expo 2020 Dubai site and in the midst of the six-month global gathering. Ahead of the main conference, a series of three interactive online sessions will take place over the course of the rest of 2021, exploring the key themes of the event and providing an opportunity to ensure the agenda addresses the key concerns and topics delegates may wish to explore. The first of these sessions took place on 15 June. The conference is the flagship event of the Dubai Association Centre (DAC), which was established in 2014 as a joint initiative of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) and Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to support and license regional and international associations in setting up an office or chapter in Dubai. DAC opened its state-of-the-art offices in One Central, DWTC in December 2019, providing a collaborative environment for registered associations. Following the conference, delegates will be offered a full-day immersive visit to Expo 2020 Dubai to experience the thematic and national pavilions, attend celebrations and events, and sample cultures and cuisine from around …

UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry Middle East and Africa Conference 2021 successfully concluded with over 150 participants from across the globe and 30 expert speakers. ‘UFI MEA Conference’ brought together leading players from the region and beyond to network, exchange ideas and forge new partnerships, with participants travelling from as far as the United States. His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Tourism and Dubai World Trade Centre Authority, and Kai Hattendorf, Managing Director and CEO of UFI, delivered welcome addresses. Leaders from the regional and international exhibition sector gathered in Dubai – thanks to the city’s well-established measures to safeguard the well-being of all visitors – to have the opportunity to see how it has led the way globally in restarting business events in the wake of the pandemic. With a mix of speakers from inside and outside the industry, participants enjoyed a world-class programme of content, including economic outlooks, case studies, lessons learnt from the pandemic and plans for the future. There were also multiple networking opportunities to catch up with friends and colleagues, meet new people and enjoy the company of colleagues. Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, says: “Driven by the city’s strong, decisive leadership and prudent handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dubai has led the way internationally in safely restarting exhibitions, trade shows and other business events, which play a vital role in economic and knowledge development locally. Just as we’ve worked with local and international stakeholders to ensure the city has been well-placed to resume events, we are committed to working with the wider industry to share knowledge and learning. Hosting the UFI Middle …

The 2021 edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM 2021) taking place for the very first time as a hybrid event from 16-19 May (physical) and 23-25 May (virtual), will see Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) pull out all stops to ensure that the destination remains in the global spotlight with unique events, projects and initiatives designed to further accelerate tourism momentum in this landmark year for Dubai. Over 70 representatives from government bodies, hotels, destination management companies and tour operators will join Dubai Tourism at the Dubai stands in Hall 3 of the Dubai World Trade Centre to safely welcome stakeholders, partners and visitors to a key industry event within a physical setting, as part of continued efforts to lead the recovery of global tourism. Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Tourism said, “ATM will play a pivotal role in strengthening the industry in what continues to be one of the most challenging periods for global tourism. With Dubai being the host destination and as one of the longstanding official partners of the event, our participation together with a cross-section of industry representatives is fundamental to the global efforts underway in dealing with a rapidly evolving situation as well as to drive post-pandemic tourism growth.  As we look forward to support ATM’s efforts to help rebuild the travel sector and facilitate business within our industry, we will also leverage this important platform to showcase the breadth of Dubai’s tourism proposition and innovative projects and initiatives while underlining that the health and safety of residents and visitors remains our top priority. We are committed to realising our tourism strategy of making Dubai the most visited and one of …

ATM 2021’s strategic partners include Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) as Destination Partner, Emaar Hospitality Group as Official Hotel Partner, Emirates as Official Airline Partner and The Vision as Official Destination Management Partner. Commenting on the ATM 2021 hybrid event, the show’s strategic partners said: Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) commented: “As Dubai plays host to the Arabian Travel Market during this challenging period, it is testament to the city’s tireless efforts in leading the restart of global tourism, inspired and guided by our visionary leadership with the goal of positioning Dubai as one of the world’s safest destinations. It is noteworthy that through a proven framework for welcoming back visitors safely and ensuring they enjoy a well-rounded destination experience, as well as our ability to transform challenges into opportunities, Dubai has demonstrated a successful model for recovery of the international travel and tourism sector. With industry professionals from around the world set to converge in the city this month, we look forward to sharing Dubai’s positive outlook during ATM 2021, while emphasising how crucial it is to always keep the health and safety of travellers at the top of the agenda to ensure tourism growth.” Adnan Kazim, Chief Commercial Officer, Emirates Airline, said: “An event like ATM is vital in supporting our industry to find its bearings, share new developments, work together to help rebuild trust in travel, and simply do business. This important event will play a vital role in showcasing our home and hub, Dubai, as it continues to safely host mega-events. Dubai has also become a model for other governments and cities …

Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) hosted a virtual town hall meeting for industry stakeholders, providing an overview of the tourism sector and global travel updates and trends, as well as insights into source markets, initiatives, campaigns and events designed to highlight Dubai’s position as the destination of choice for families in the summer. The Summer 2021 Virtual Town Hall, presided by Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), is part of the regular top-level industry engagements initiated by Dubai Tourism to ensure the entire industry is seamlessly aligned with the marketing communications and campaigns dedicated to tourism growth. The meeting, attended by over 600 key executives from the hospitality, travel and attractions sectors, reviewed the progress made by the industry since the reopening of the city to domestic tourism in May 2020 and international tourists in July 2020. It also reviewed the strong measures in place to safeguard the health and well-being of residents and visitors. During the meeting, it was noted that the wide ranging steps taken by Dubai to successfully manage the pandemic resulted in the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) awarding the emirate the ‘Safe Travels’ stamp. Dubai also launched its own compliance programme, the DUBAI ASSURED stamp to certify and recognise establishments across the tourism ecosystem that have complied with all safety protocols. An ongoing countrywide vaccination campaign has also placed the UAE among the top five nations globally in terms of overall vaccine rollout. The Town Hall provided an insight into Dubai Tourism’s direction and plans for Summer 2021, to enable stakeholders to leverage and benefit from the various marketing initiatives and ensure the …

Nakheel announced that The View at The Palm, a stunning observation deck that showcases a 360-degree view of Palm Jumeirah, is set to open its doors to the public on 7 April 2021. Visitors can purchase their tickets and experience the Palm Jumeirah like never-before, as well as embark on an interactive journey towards the rich history of this splendid island through multiple immersive touchpoints. Omar Khoory, Chief Assets and Hospitality Officer, Nakheel said: “Twenty years ago, Nakheel embarked on a journey to bring the vision of Palm Jumeirah to life and today, we celebrate its growing success story by launching The View at The Palm. As well as a world attraction, The View will uncover the evolutionary journey behind building one of the most splendid man-made islands in the world. As Nakheel continues to add innovative destinations to its ever-growing retail portfolio, we hope that these experiences will inspire wonder to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. We are delighted to welcome residents to experience Palm Jumeirah in a completely new way and we are confident that it will be memorable.” Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), said: “The View at The Palm marks another major milestone for Dubai’s tourism industry and adds to the city’s range of diverse offerings that residents and visitors can enjoy. The opening of the observation deck under stringent precautionary measures will further enhance the safe environment that Dubai has created in line with the directive of our visionary leadership to ensure that the health and safety of people remains the top priority. The significance of the solid relationships that we have built over the years with …

Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) announced the global release of ‘Ya Salam Ya Dubai’, launched on New Year’s Day as part of the 26th Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), Ya Salam Ya Dubai was released as joint project between Dubai Tourism and MBC Group. The new song fuses the talents of two famed artists including Arabic music icon Rashed Al Majed and Moroccan–Swedish singer, songwriter and Multi Grammy award-winning music producer RedOne, who has worked with Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, Enrique Iglesias and Nicki Minaj among other successful artists. Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said, “With Ya Salam Ya Dubai, we can truly celebrate how far Dubai has come to be a leading international destination recognised around the world. In a relatively short time period, the city has innovated and adapted to changing tourism trends and the evolving global travel industry, achieving countless milestones, launching world-class landmarks and hosting successful events that continue to attract global attention and visitation.” Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said, “Throughout the 26 years of DSF, we have remained committed to bringing exciting promotions, activations and experiences to residents and visitors, leaving them in awe, which in turn has established Dubai as the shopping and entertainment hub of the world. Ya Salam Ya Dubai is a celebration of the past, present and future of Dubai.” Commenting on the song, Rashed Al Majed said, “I am honored to be part of the Dubai Shopping Festival’s (DSF) story since its inception 26 years ago and today, I am back to celebrate Dubai, a magnificent city, which …

Riu Dubai, Nakheel’s 800-room joint venture with Spain’s RIU Hotels & Resorts, is now open at Deira Islands, adding a new dimension to Dubai’s hospitality offering as the emirate’s first 4-star, 24-hour all-inclusive beachfront resort.  Riu Dubai, Nakheel’s first hospitality joint venture and the first attraction to open at Deira Islands, was inaugurated by Nakheel Chairman, HE Mohammed Al-Shaibani and Luis Riu, Chief Executive Officer of RIU Hotels & Resorts. HE Mohammed Al-Shaibani, Chairman of Nakheel, said, “Nakheel has a long, successful history of creating and delivering a diverse range of tourism and leisure projects in line with government goals, and I am delighted to see our first hospitality joint venture come to fruition. The opening of Riu Dubai is a key milestone for Nakheel, Deira Islands and Dubai, and underlines our commitment to partnering with reputable, international brands to bring new and unique tourism concepts to the emirate.” Luis Riu, Chief Executive Officer of RIU Hotels & Resorts, said. “This is a unique opportunity to offer all our experience with the 24-hour all-inclusive product – so popular among our European and American customers – in a completely new destination. We undertook this enterprise with Nakheel, the best partner you could imagine thanks to its extensive experience in master developments and large-scale destination projects, and its firm commitment to Dubai’s tourism sector.” Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), commented,  “The Riu Dubai is yet another development of distinction by our key partner Nakheel that will contribute towards the growing momentum in the hospitality sector and add to the city’s diversity of offerings designed to enhance the global appeal of Dubai as …

Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International Middle East (HSMAI) hosted its inaugural Revenue Optimization Conference (ROC) Middle East as a true hybrid event, focused on Staying Connected, Staying Informed and Staying Relevant amidst the global Covid-19 pandemic. Attended by a combination of 300 virtual and in-person guests at the InterContinental Dubai Festival City Hotel, the event was held in accordance with all required safety and social distancing measures in place.  Opened by HSMAI Managing Director, Mona Faraj who handed over to HSMAI President & CEO, Bob Gilbert joining virtually from the US, thanks to the great technology of Maze FX . A line-up of 53 global speakers, including representatives from Dubai Tourism, Accor, Jumeirah, Hilton, Kempinski, IHG, Shangri La, Minor, Barcelo and many more addressing attendees on how to lead the hospitality industry to resume business activities, re-connect again, and exchange best practices. Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, was this year’s opening keynote speaker. Highlighting how the Covid-19 has demonstrated the hospitality industry’s resilience, its ability to pivot and the embedding of new best practices, Kazim also discussed the evolution of the city’s global marketing efforts through recent months, including the launch of the ‘Live Your Story’ campaign. “It has given us great honor that HSMAI ROC 2020 was the platform for the industry to be united together again and I am delighted at the attendance received today, both in person and virtually.  It is an endorsement of the mission that makes up the Hotel Sales & Marketing Association International in the Middle East and the collaboration between the hospitality industry and its partners united towards one goal,” said Faraj.