TravTalk - Middle East

ME to lure German market @ ITB

The most lucrative networking arena, 52nd ITB Berlin is set to take place from March 7-11. The Middle East secures its position by occupying 3200 square meter in the exhibition area. Altogether, the show’s management expects around 10,000 exhibitors and 1

- SHEHARA RIZLY

SCTDA’s efforts in showcasing Sharjah’s tourism experience at various exhibition­s around the world have helped the emirate strengthen its share of market exposure. Sharjah has participat­ed in ITB Berlin for 20 years now and the emirate continues to attract large numbers of German tourists. With more than 180 countries and 109,000 trade visitors, ITB Berlin is the ideal opportunit­y to meet industry profession­als in the field. In addition to enhancing our tourism portfolio, we will target the European markets and promote Sharjah as a year-round destinatio­n.

Germany is the main source market for Meeting Point

Emirates. ITB Berlin is important to meet our top clients, new clients and partners as well as launch new projects. Last

November, we had launched our first all-seasons daily flights operated by Condor to the UAE in a joint venture with FTI Group. So far, the programme has proven very successful where the German market along Germany was the single largest contributo­r in the region with 41,671 passengers to DWC according to a recently published data. It’s gratifying to know that our initiative contribute­d to boost Dubai tourism.

As a growing company with global ambitions, it’s vital Emaar Hospitalit­y Group has a presence at internatio­nal gatherings such as ITB Berlin. We have participat­ed at this mart for many years and regard it as a go-to hospitalit­y exhibition. We will showcase our progress in the regional and global expansion of our brands in addition to the current superior guest experience­s that we offer both leisure and business travellers. Catering to travellers from everywhere, Europe and specifical­ly Germany is a key country for the group.

ITB provides us a global platform to showcase our destinatio­n and wide range of products and services along with an opportunit­y to meet our trade partners. Arabian Adventures has exhibited at ITB from our start of business over 25 years ago and will continue to do so. UAE, as a unique destinatio­n is constantly evolving with new products and experience­s. The German-speaking markets including Austria and Switzerlan­d are a key focus for Dubai, UAE and Arabian Adventures. Our management team will showcase our products and services at this key event.

Our focus is on enhancing customer service to ensure guest delight. The German market is particular­ly important during the festive season. The year 2017 has been very encouragin­g for us as our dhow cruise outperform­ed in the market. We also got the growth trends in our desert safari, yachts charters and other tours as compared to previous years. Al Wasl provides parallel experience­s to all reputable guests by providing the promised infrastruc­ture, delicious food, customer service and experience­s.

Our focus will be on the culinary experience and the different flavours visitors can taste when visiting Germany. Our GNTO Dubai-based office will be attending ITB to connect with German partners like hotels, regional tourism boards or any other travelrela­ted service providers to woo them to take part in our GCC-wide marketing activities like roadshows, press events and crossmedia marketing campaigns. Our focus is to mainly promote Germany as a tourism destinatio­n, besides working closely with the respective stakeholde­rs in the MICE segment.

 ??  ?? Ishrat Ali Khan
Group Managing Director, Al Wasl Yachts, Al Wasl Dhow, Asia Pacific Tourism & Oasis Palm Safari, Arabian Travel Award winner
Ishrat Ali Khan Group Managing Director, Al Wasl Yachts, Al Wasl Dhow, Asia Pacific Tourism & Oasis Palm Safari, Arabian Travel Award winner
 ??  ?? HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa Chairman
SCTDA
HE Khalid Jasim Al Midfa Chairman SCTDA
 ??  ?? Sigrid de Mazieres Director–Gulf countries German National Tourist Office
Sigrid de Mazieres Director–Gulf countries German National Tourist Office
 ??  ?? Khaled Jouni
CEO
Meeting Point Internatio­nal
Khaled Jouni CEO Meeting Point Internatio­nal
 ??  ?? Olivier Harnisch Chief Executive Officer Emaar Hospitalit­y Group
Olivier Harnisch Chief Executive Officer Emaar Hospitalit­y Group
 ??  ?? Samir Mehta General Manager Arabian Adventures
Samir Mehta General Manager Arabian Adventures

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