Talking MICE with Agents

The MICE facilitators share emerging trends in Dubai from their perspective

CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOTEL

Marriott, Starwood, IHG and Hyatt are some of the international hotel chains that Indians prefer for large MICE groups owing to their sizeable inventory. Whereas for small and mid size groups that require up to 100 rooms, chain hotels like Grand Excelsior/Rotana are the top choices. The banqueting spaces differ ranging from 200 to some offering capacity of around 700-900. For conferences and gala events, Ballrooms with no pillar and a minimum height of 12-15 ft with breakaway rooms and enough foyer areas are always preferred.

EXPLORE DUBAI OPERA AND MORE

Dubai is home to some of the largest and tallest man-made wonders in the world. There is a host of activities and locations that Dubai offers. Also, thrill and adventure are at the core of the entertainment activities that Cox & Kings organises. The corporate rock stars can look forward to Skydiving, Flyboarding, Paddle Boarding, Flying Fox, Gun Shooting sport, Hot Air Balloon, Wind Surfing and series of diverse activities. 2016 witnessed the opening of Dubai Opera, a world-class entertainment venue, hosting some of the most internationally acclaimed performances and productions, and CITY WALK, the city's trendiest new retail destination.

LARGE INVENTORIES MEANS LOWER RATES

Dubai has witnessed revival after additions of newer attractions like IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai Parks and Resorts. There is a probability of hotels dropping the rates during summer after facing pressure from huge inventories.

Short haul destinations like Malaysia / Thailand / Hong Kong/Abu Dhabi / Singapore continue to be among the top MICE destinations for Indians. Dubai is one of preferred MICE destinations in the Middle East region. With better incentive facilities and newer investments in the different economies, MICE has become an extremely competitive market.

Abu Dhabi, Oman and Bahrain are destinations competing with Dubai. Incentivising the travel agents, cash subsidies, effective corporate planning, regular FAM trips, ATL/BTL activities through major tour operators are some of the aspects many of these destinations are working on to maintain and draw more MICE groups.

Thrill and adventure are core entertainment activities that Cox & Kings organises