What is the focus of ibtm arabia and what are the new themes for the Knowledge Forum?

I would say the focus is to provide all attendees with a cost effective and easily managed industry event that sets new standards in our sector as it did when it took place earlier in 2015. The success was proven with 95 per cent of exhibitors and hosted buyers saying they were satisfied with the event and the business they did. Like its sister ibtm america, ibtm arabia has created a true industry community, where participants stay in the same hotel and attend the same activities, from meetings to drinks and dinner. We have organised a Discovery Day also, inviting all attendees to explore Abu Dhabi. This is followed by the Knowledge Forum and a Welcome Networking Reception. The format of ‘meeting pods’ is also simple and time-efficient: there is no stand, building or freight shipping, exhibitors just supply a graphic to illustrate their product and to brand their pod, then they are ready for business. As it is a preference-led event, exhibitors and hosted buyers are mutually matched so that everyone has the appointments they want. Our education content has been fully tailored to the audiences’ needs, ensuring that it is relevant to exhibitors and buyers alike. So the ibtm arabia 2016 Knowledge Forum which will once again be part of Discovery Day, has a great keynote speaker lined up. Carol Talbot, a world-class motivational speaker, sets out to empower people and help them think differently about their approach to work. Her objective is to support people towards creating and delivering a vision for themselves, which will ultimately accelerate them towards succeeding in this industry. Carol will highlight the difference between those who attract success and those that don’t. She will also share some of her top leadership tactics, which will provide attendees with useful tips around how to influence people.