Singapore gets ready for action

As Singapore gets ready to host Asia’s much talked-about travel trade show, ITB Asia in October 2015, the travel and tourism industry in the Gulf region continues to ride on an upbeat mood.

The vibrant mood of the industry has been substantiated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) figures which show that the Middle East aviation market achieved a 5.2 per cent share of the global market in 2014, with passenger numbers growing by 10 per cent to 173 million. Though the Middle East was the fifth largest market behind Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America and Latin America and the Caribbean, it was the only region to see doubledigit percentage growth, according to IATA.

Back in Singapore, the industry excitement is high as ITB Asia has bolstered its strategic partnership with Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) to provide delegates with its most comprehensive business-focused program to-date.

Interestingly, another highlight of this year’s show is the 2016 Global Travel Price Outlook, which will provide an in-depth understanding of the evolving travel landscape, offering travel buyers the information they need to successfully budget for and negotiate their upcoming travel programs.

Participants will be able to witness a new element at the ITB show: the Global Travel Professional (GTP) examinations. GTP is the first and only certification for dedicated business travel professionals, which was designed to raise industry standards, enhance work performance and recognise individuals who demonstrate core competencies essential to business travel management.

With exhibitors from every sector of the industry, including destinations, aviation, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions, inbound tour operators, inbound DMCs, cruise lines, spas, venues, other meeting facilities and travel technology companies expected to attend, the event holds huge promise for the industry and the eager visitors.

In short, Singapore beckons.