Antoine Nasr, Principal at Strategy &,

said: “Among the GCC countries, the UAE is seen to have the most robust MICE business. The country has transformed itself into the region’s most important travel hub and this is evident with the Dubai international airport recently surpassing Heathrow as the world’s busiest airport. The UAE also provides an increasing range and quality of leisure offerings which has enhanced the country’s popularity as a place for meetings.” GCC countries have five major competitive advantages as MICE destinations like - central geographic location, considerable trade activity and expanding economic and corporate bases, stable political systems, a host of emerging ancillary services (such as restored ancient sites and rapidly improving museums) and new and technologically advanced meeting facilities that can host sizable gatherings.