DUBAI: OPTIMISM FOR EVENTS

THE inaugural Dubai Association Conference wrapped up this week, with industry leaders expressing optimism about the future for associations both in the Middle East and worldwide.

Dubai Dept of Tourism and Commerce Marketing director general Helal Al Marri said he wanted to make Dubai a gateway for regional and international associations to establish themselves in the emirate and take advantage of opportunities in the area.

“As we continue to align associations, government and businesses together through the Dubai Association Centre, we plan for Dubai to become the top destination for associations regionally,” he said.

Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry president & ceo Hamad Buamim said associations were among the biggest contributors of economic growth and business activity globally.

“Associations have valuable knowledge, expertise and skill sets that can enhance the emirate’s competitiveness and drive its knowledge economy.”

The conference’s two-day program focussed on building the association community, skills development for association executives and sharing best practices from around the world.

Delegates included int’l association execs, government reps, and event professionals.

The event was hosted by the Dubai Association Centre and a joint initiative of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, plus Dubai World Trade Centre.