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Lots of networking in the new edition of ibtm arabia

Lots of networking in the new edition of ibtm arabia

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Interested in organising meetings in the Gulf? The upcoming edition of the Middle East arm of the ibtm events portfolio will take place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, 7 – 9 February, providing Hosted Buyers with a personalised schedule of one-to-one meetings with a selection of Exhibitors in a one-to-one forma. Just like several other ibtm shows (ibtm America for instance), the event has evolved from an open show to a ‘pod’ format, powered by the company’s matchmaking software, to define a personalised diary of pre-scheduled appointments. The event is limited to 260 spaces available, 130 for Hosted Buyers and 130 for exhibitors, from 30 countries.

The format has been designed to embrace regional nuances when it comes to the importance of relationship building, with nine networking events held over the three-day-long show. The first one is ‘Discovery Day,’ which allows Hosted Buyers and exhibitors to get to know each other whilst exploring the local culture in an informal environment. It commences with a keynote session which acts as a forum for attendees to debate industry issues. Hosted Buyers are accommodated in a 5-star luxury seafront resort.

The advantages of Abu Dhabi in MICE include a huge level of ongoing investment and development (80% of the region’s infrastructure less than two decades old), its good connections via Etihad and other premium airlines, and world-class airport. Shinu Pillai, Exhibition Manager also stresses that “there is sometimes a misconception that there is a lot of bureaucracy involved in organising an event the Middle East, however in our experience there is an excellent support mechanism in place for event organisers, headed by Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau and, on a wider scale, by Abu Dhabi Culture & Tourism Authority (ADTA), with whom we have partnered for a number of years. 

New exhibitors include Millennium Hotels & Resorts, Jumeirah, Rezidor and IMG Worlds of Adventure.

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