Cvent Announces Top Meeting Destinations and Top Meeting Hotels in the Middle East & Africa for 2025
Cvent, an industry-leading meetings, events, and hospitality technology provider, today unveiled its 2025 rankings Top Meeting Destinations and Top Meeting Hotels for the Middle East & Africa (MEA). Cvent's rankings have become indispensable for event planners, highlighting top-of-the-line cities, hotels, and venues for all their event needs. The annual lists are also issued regionally for North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and for the first time this year, Latin America & Caribbean. Cvent also unveiled a new Top Lists category, the Top Venues and Vendors, which analyzes data from the Cvent Vendor Marketplace.
The destination and hotel rankings are determined based on insights gleaned from more than $18B of global sourcing and request-for-proposal (RFP) activity through Cvent's sourcing platforms in 2024, including a record-breaking $16.5B through the Cvent Supplier Network, one of the world's largest venue sourcing marketplaces. The unparalleled volume of business sourced in 2024 underscores the high demand for quality, in-person touchpoints. Despite a dip in planner optimism due to macroeconomic uncertainty and rising costs, nearly 69% of planners are actively booking or sourcing new events (Northstar/Cvent Meetings Industry PULSE Survey, March 2025, MEA Edition). This trend is further supported by Cvent's 2025 Planner Sourcing Report: Middle East Edition, which found that nearly 84% of planners expect the number of in-person meetings to increase in 2025.
Cvent Top Meeting Destinations | The Middle East & Africa
The top three destinations remained unchanged from 2024: Dubai, UAE (#1), Istanbul, Türkiye (#2), and Abu Dhabi, UAE (#3). Two new additions to the top 10 include Nairobi (#8) and Kuwait City (#9), rising by four and five spots, respectively.
Top 10 Meeting Destinations
1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates 2. Istanbul, Türkiye 3. Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates 4. Cape Town, South Africa 5. Marrakech, Morocco 6. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia 7. Doha, Qatar 8. Nairobi, Kenya 9. Kuwait City, Kuwait 10. Johannesburg, South Africa
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, said: 'We are proud to once again be recognized as the number one meeting destination in the Middle East and Africa by Cvent, a testament to Dubai's continued growth as a global hub for business events. Technology plays a pivotal role in how we engage with planners, respond quickly to their needs, and showcase Dubai's dynamic and ever-evolving offering as a destination led by digital transformation. Driven by the city's visionary leadership, we remain committed to delivering exceptional experiences for planners – offering world-class infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and a culture of innovation. Dubai continues to appeal strongly as a preferred destination to corporates seeking a strategic base for their events, reinforcing the city's role in driving business growth, sector diversity and unlocking economic opportunities across the region. This recognition is shared with our valued stakeholders and partners, whose collaborative efforts attract and deliver impactful events and make Dubai the destination of choice once again.'
Cvent Top Meeting Hotels | The Middle East & Africa
Each of the Top 10 hotels has a proven track record of swift RFP responses, prioritizing planner collaboration and offering curated MICE experiences. Notably, the top four hotels are strategically located in prime areas of Dubai, offering easy access to business districts, airports, and major attractions. This makes them convenient options for both domestic and international travelers attending meetings and conferences.
This year's top three, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai (#1), Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City (#2), and Grand Hyatt Dubai Conference Hotel (#3), each improved their year-over-year rankings, moving up six, two, and 12 spots, respectively. Additional newcomers to the Top 10 include Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre (#5), Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention (#9), and Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre (#10).
Top 10 Meeting Hotels
1. JW Marriott Marquis Dubai 2. Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City 3. Grand Hyatt Dubai Conference Hotel 4. InterContinental Dubai DFC – Congress Destination 5. Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre 6. Hyatt Regency Dubai Creek Heights 7. Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah Dubai 8. Conrad Dubai 9. Crowne Plaza Riyadh RDC Hotel & Convention 10. Sheraton Grand Doha Resort & Convention Centre
Gerrit Graef, Multi-Property General Manager, said, 'We're incredibly proud to be named the #1 Meeting Hotel in the Middle East & Africa by Cvent. As the events landscape continues to evolve, so do the expectations of planners—and we've made it our mission to stay ahead. With over 1,600 rooms and versatile event spaces, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai is built for scale, but it's our responsiveness, innovation, and use of technology that truly set us apart. Tools like Cvent help us anticipate needs, connect globally, and deliver the seamless, high-impact experiences today's planners demand.'
Soufiane El Allam, Complex Operations & Commercial Director said, 'Being named the #2 Top Meeting Hotel in the Middle East by Cvent is a proud achievement and a true reflection of our team's dedication to excellence. At Hilton Dubai Al Habtoor City, we're committed to delivering seamless and memorable event experiences. With the support of smart platforms like Cvent and innovations, we continue to raise the bar for meeting planners across the region.'
Pranav Vohra, Cluster Commercial Director – IHG Hotels at Dubai Festival City, said 'We are incredibly proud to be recognized by Cvent as the #4 Top Meeting Hotel in the Middle East & Africa. This milestone coincides with the exciting relaunch of our Event Centre and the introduction of 'Events by InterContinental' — a dedicated platform that showcases our unmatched meeting and event capabilities. The revitalized Event Centre now features one of the largest LED screens in the region within our ballroom, state-of-the-art technology throughout, and stunning waterfront views of Dubai Creek from the floor-to-ceiling glass exterior of the pre-function area. From small meetings to large-scale conferences, our versatile spaces and world-class tech integration reaffirm InterContinental Dubai Festival City as a premier MICE destination in the region.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Arabian Post
5 days ago
- Arabian Post
Dubai Secures Leading Position in Global Meetings Industry
Dubai is poised to make a significant impact at the upcoming IMEX event, reinforcing its status as a premier destination for global meetings and events. The city's persistent rise in the meetings and incentives travel sector has been highlighted by its sustained ranking as the top meeting destination in the Middle East and Africa, according to the latest industry data. The recognition by Cvent, a leading meetings management platform, confirms Dubai's continued dominance among the Top 25 Meeting Destinations across the region. This accolade reflects the city's comprehensive appeal to international event planners, offering world-class infrastructure, advanced technology integration, and a strategic geographical location that connects the East and West efficiently. Dubai's consistent ability to attract high-profile conferences, exhibitions, and corporate events underscores its role as a pivotal hub in the global meetings industry. Key factors driving Dubai's leadership include its expansive range of venues, from cutting-edge convention centres to luxury hotels equipped with the latest facilities. The Dubai World Trade Centre remains one of the region's most versatile event spaces, accommodating a broad spectrum of event sizes and formats. This flexibility is crucial in adapting to evolving industry demands, particularly with hybrid and virtual components becoming standard in event planning. ADVERTISEMENT Government initiatives and private sector collaboration have played a central role in fortifying Dubai's position. Authorities have implemented policies to streamline event permits and enhance visitor experience, ensuring a seamless process for organisers and delegates alike. Incentives, such as visa facilitation and dedicated support services, have been instrumental in attracting major international conventions. Dubai's strategic investments in digital infrastructure have enabled organisers to leverage data analytics, AI-driven matchmaking, and enhanced attendee engagement tools, which have become critical components in the competitive meetings landscape. These technological advancements allow event planners to tailor experiences, optimise networking opportunities, and maximise return on investment. The city's robust transport connectivity, including a globally recognised international airport and comprehensive public transport networks, further contributes to its appeal. Ease of access combined with a reputation for safety and hospitality has made Dubai a preferred choice for global gatherings, despite challenges posed by shifting geopolitical dynamics and economic uncertainties worldwide. Analysts note that Dubai's ability to maintain its ranking amidst growing competition from other emerging markets in the Middle East and Africa signals effective strategic positioning and adaptability. Regional cities such as Riyadh, Cairo, and Cape Town have been investing heavily in their meetings infrastructure, but Dubai's early adoption of technology and sustained government backing provide it with a competitive edge. The upcoming IMEX event is expected to showcase Dubai's diverse offerings through dedicated pavilions, interactive demonstrations, and networking sessions. The event acts as a platform for Dubai to engage directly with industry stakeholders, present new developments, and explore collaborative opportunities. Dubai's participation reflects its proactive approach in maintaining visibility and relevance in a fast-evolving global meetings ecosystem. ADVERTISEMENT Dubai's commitment to sustainability also stands out in its meetings strategy. The city has integrated green initiatives into its event planning framework, aligning with global trends towards eco-friendly practices. This includes promoting sustainable venue certifications, waste reduction programmes, and energy-efficient technologies. Such efforts resonate well with international organisations increasingly prioritising environmental responsibility. Beyond infrastructure and logistics, Dubai's cultural diversity and entertainment offerings enhance its attractiveness. Delegates and visitors benefit from a rich blend of experiences that extend beyond business, from world-class dining to cultural festivals and outdoor activities. This holistic approach to hosting events adds a layer of appeal that complements the professional aspects of meetings and conventions. Industry insiders emphasise that Dubai's leadership is not solely based on scale but on quality and innovation. The city's event ecosystem supports tailored experiences that meet the distinct needs of various sectors, including finance, technology, healthcare, and hospitality. This sector-specific focus allows Dubai to attract specialised conferences that require sophisticated facilities and expertise. The synergy between Dubai's public and private sectors remains a cornerstone of its meetings industry success. Joint initiatives, marketing campaigns, and continuous feedback loops ensure the city adapts quickly to global trends and client expectations. This collaborative model fosters resilience, particularly amid global economic shifts that have impacted international travel and events. Looking ahead, Dubai plans to further expand its capacity and diversify its event portfolio. New projects are underway to upgrade existing venues and develop niche event spaces that cater to emerging markets such as esports and creative industries. These investments are aligned with Dubai's vision to remain at the forefront of the global meetings landscape.
Gulf Business
28-05-2025
- Gulf Business
Eid Al Adha in Dubai: A guide to what's on offer from shopping to live events
Images: Supplied Get ready for an extraordinary Eid Al Adha in Dubai. From June 2 to 8, the city will transform into a vibrant spectacle of joy and entertainment, offering an action-packed programme curated by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). Whether you're a resident or a visitor, prepare to create unforgettable memories with world-class entertainment, the season's biggest retail offers, exclusive hotel and attraction deals, endless culinary adventures, and once-in-a-lifetime prizes. As Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE, aptly puts it, 'This year's Eid in Dubai programme is designed to create memorable moments through world-class entertainment, cultural showcases, incredible retail and dining offers, and breathtaking experiences that truly reflect the warmth and vibrancy of our city. We welcome everyone to celebrate Here's a breakdown of what's on offer to make your Eid truly special: 1. Live events, concerts and shows Dubai's Eid Al Adha celebrations promise a spectacular line-up of entertainment for all ages and interests. Mohamed Abdo Live: The legendary Saudi singer lights up Coca-Cola Arena on June 7 for an unforgettable evening of music. Tickets are available via the Coca-Cola Arena website. The Greatest Wish : Families can enjoy a feel-good Arabic play with lively characters and captivating scenes at Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, from June 6 to 8. Comedy Nights : French comedian Roman Frayssinet performs at the Emirates Theatre on June 7, while Indian comic sensation Shraddha Jain makes her Dubai debut at Sheikh Rashid Auditorium, Indian High School, on the same night. Dinner With A Clue : For a night of suspense and intrigue, this live-action murder mystery returns aboard the Queen Elizabeth 2 on June 7. Candlelight Concert : Soak in the glow of flickering flames on June 7, featuring classical renditions of timeless works by Vivaldi and modern tributes to Coldplay, at Mina A'Salam Hotel in Madinat Jumeirah. One Thousand Nights and A Wedding : Enjoy a comedic twist on a classic tale, performed on June 7 and 8 at Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre. The Messi Experience : Football fans can immerse themselves in the extraordinary world of Lionel Messi with nine interactive zones spanning 2,500 square metres at Dubai Festival City Mall until February 28, 2026. 2. Retail offers and city-wide shopping raffles Dubai's retail scene brings exciting offers, exclusive collections, and irresistible promotions across the city this Eid Al Adha. 3 Day Super Sale (3DSS): From May 30 to June 1, enjoy up to 90 per cent off at more than 500 top brands across over 2,500 outlets. Shoppers can also unlock greater value using loyalty programmes like BLUE Rewards, SHARE, Amber, Tickit, AURA, Privilege Plus, or Skywards Everyday. Dubai Festival City Mall's Spend & Win: Spend Dhs300 or more for a chance to win a whopping Dhs20,000 mall gift card. Dubai Jewellery Group: Explore stunning Eid collections and unlock exclusive deals like complimentary gifts, 50 per cent back on select diamond and pearl jewellery, free custom engraving, and zero deduction on old gold exchange until June 8. Dubai Shopping Malls Group Shop & Win: Running until the second day of Eid Al Adha, 25 lucky shoppers can win cash prizes worth a total of Dhs200,000 when spending just Dhs200 at participating malls, including Al Ghurair Centre, Arabian Center, and Sunset Mall. 3. Mall activations Dubai's malls are transforming into vibrant hubs of celebration with a wide array of immersive experiences, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. Mercato Mall: From June 6 to 9, enjoy a Fun Eid Explosion main show, cotton candy performances, face painting, craft and painting workshops, and roaming entertainers. Shoppers can also unlock exclusive discounts through the PrivilegePLUS App. City Walk: Escape the summer heat with exceptional dining, live entertainment, and engaging family activities from June 6 to 9, between 5pm and 10pm. Ibn Battuta Mall: Experience VERSUS 2.0, a next-generation gaming activation at the Egypt mini court from June 6 to 15. Dubai Festival City Mall: Witness a brand-new IMAGINE Show, with breathtaking projection mapping performances every hour from 7pm, traditional cultural shows on the first two days of Eid after 5pm, and special giveaways from 2pm to 9pm. Roaming Entertainment: Enjoy the vibrant rhythms of Al Ayala and Al Harbiya bands, an essential part of Emirati celebrations, across top destinations like Ibn Battuta Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Festival City Mall, with multiple showtimes throughout Eid. 4. Dining delights across the city This Eid Al Adha, Dubai's culinary scene comes alive with a host of festive feasts and indulgent dining experiences. High Tea to Luxury Dinners: From exquisite high teas at Mosaico Lobby Lounge to luxurious Eid dinners at Enigma, food lovers have endless choices. Authentic Flavors: Popular venues such as Varq, Palm Kitchen, Punjab Grill, and Dhaba Lane present dishes bursting with authentic flavors. Lively Atmospheres: The Permit Room and The Market Island at Dubai Festival City Mall offer vibrant dining experiences. Family Outings: Ranches Restaurant at Arabian Ranches Golf Club hosts BBQ nights, Sunday roasts, and a magical breakfast with Magic Phil. Signature Hotel Dining: Celebrate in style at Palazzo Versace's Giardino or enjoy signature offerings at renowned hotel restaurants including Novotel World Trade Centre, Fairmont Dubai, Swissôtel Al Ghurair, and Dukes The Palm. 5. Exclusive staycation deals for a luxurious eid break Residents and visitors can make the most of the long weekend with exclusive staycation offers across Dubai's top hotels. JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai: GCC residents can enjoy 25 per cent off dining across its award-winning restaurants. InterContinental Dubai Festival City: Guests receive 25 per cent off stays, gourmet breakfasts, VOCO Monaco beach access, Dubai Festival City Mall discounts, and One Rewards bonus points. Leading properties: Packages and savings are available at Swissôtel Al Ghurair, 25hours Hotel One Central, Fairmont Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton DIFC, W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Waldorf Astoria DIFC, and many more. 6. Family-friendly stays and Eid attractions Dubai is set to pull out all the stops for families this Eid Al Adha, with irresistible staycation deals and thrilling attractions for all ages. Atlantis The Palm: UAE residents enjoy up to 35 per cent off rooms and suites, plus Kids Go Free perks and complimentary access to Aquaventure. Dubai Festival City Hotels: InterContinental Residence Suites, Holiday Inn & Suites, and Crowne Plaza offer luxury escapes with breakfast and dinner packages, discounts to kid-friendly hotspots, spa credits, and IHG One Rewards points. The First Collection Hotels: Get up to 45 per cent off advance bookings, free stays and meals for kids under five, and generous F&B discounts. Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa: Enjoy 15 per cent off a secluded Bedouin villa stay with a private pool, full-board dining, and desert activities including stargazing and horse riding. Beyond hotels, the city's top attractions are rolling out exciting Eid specials: Dubai Dolphinarium: 30 per cent off Dolphin & Seal Show tickets using promo code EID25. Wild Wadi Water Park: Cool off with water rides and live entertainment. LEGOLAND Dubai: Join the Summer Splash Fest with interactive games, a Build-A-Boat Championship, and an exclusive afterparty. The Green Planet: Transforms into a tropical Eid haven with henna, face painting, and family movie screenings. Chaos Karts and PACMAN Live: Enjoy discounted 10 per cent off family bundles. Hatta Wadi Hub: Slashes prices on outdoor adventure packages by 50 per cent. House of Hype: Offers four tickets for Dhs449. AYA Universe: Invites families to explore its wonders for Dhs399. Eid in Dubai promises to delight residents and visitors alike, with a citywide celebration that blends ultimate excitement, cultural charm, and unforgettable moments for all ages. For the latest updates and full event details, visit the
Tourism Breaking News
21-05-2025
- Tourism Breaking News
Dubai participates at IMEX 2025 highlights the city's position as a premier destination for international business events
Post Views: 77 Dubai Business Events (DBE), the city's official convention bureau and part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism successfully participated at IMEX Frankfurt joined by key stakeholders. At IMEX, a delegation of 30 stakeholders from across the sector has joined DBE in showcasing Dubai's credentials as a premier global hub for business events. The delegation includes leading hotels, venues, DMCs, airlines and other service providers including Emirates, Expo City Dubai, and Dubai World Trade Centre, together highlighting Dubai's ability to deliver dynamic world-class events at the intersection of innovation, knowledge-sharing and sustainable growth. This comes as Dubai continues to earn global recognition, this week being confirmed as #1 globally for highest attendee number per association meeting in 2024, and once again ranking #1 in the Middle East for the total number of association meetings hosted during the period, according to the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). Cvent has this week also confirmed that Dubai maintained its #1 position among the Top 25 Meeting Destinations in the Middle East and Africa. The accolades further demonstrate the city's ability to both host prolific events and facilitate event growth for associations, allowing them to tap into the market and increase global access to members. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: 'As we engage with the global industry at IMEX Frankfurt, we are reinforcing Dubai's position as a strategic destination for impactful business events. Our consistent top rankings from ICCA and Cvent, and growing pipeline of major international events, are the result of a focused and collaborative approach with our stakeholders, as we work collectively to reinforce the emirate's position as a premier global hub for the MICE industry. Business events are integral to our tourism strategy and are increasingly driving progress across key sectors. They are playing a vital role in advancing the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33 – to position Dubai as one of the world's most innovative, inclusive and future-ready cities, as guided and championed by the visionary leadership of the UAE.' Dubai's participation aligns with this year's IMEX theme – Impact 2.0: Activating the Future – emphasising the global events community's responsibility to address major global and community challenges while driving positive change through events, partnerships and initiatives. In line with this vision, Dubai continues to attract business events that not only grow visitation but also support innovation and deeper engagement across its economic sectors. This directly contributes to the D33 economic agenda, which aims to place Dubai among the top three global cities for business and leisure. Dubai's momentum was further underscored by a record 437 successful bids secured in 2024 to host international conferences, congresses and incentive programmes, a 20% year-on-year increase. These events are set to attract over 210,000 delegates to Dubai in the coming years, significantly contributing to the city's business and tourism ecosystem. Among the high-profile events won: Amway ESAN 2025, the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums 2025, the Global Symposium on Health Systems Research 2026, the World Congress on Medical Informatics 2027, ISAPS Olympiad World Congress 2027, Forever Living Products Global Rally 2026, the Scientific Assembly and Associated Events of the Committee on Space Research 2028 and The International Conference on Computer Vision 2029. Dubai continues to see strong growth in tourism aligned with its MICE strategy. In 2024, the city welcomed a record 18.72 million international overnight visitors, a 9% year-on-year increase. That momentum has continued into 2025, with 5.31 million international visitors arriving between January and March, marking a 3% increase compared to Q1 2024. Business events have been a key contributor to this sustained growth, generating economic impact across sectors and further strengthening Dubai's global brand. Further enhancing the city's capacity to meet rising demand in the events space, a key development includes an expansion plan for the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai. As part of broader urban development initiatives including the Al Maktoum International Airport expansion, the project is a strategic investment aimed at reinforcing Dubai's position as a global platform for major conferences and exhibitions, enabling the city to host larger and more complex events that deliver long-term value that meets increasing demand and attendance. IMEX remains a cornerstone of DBE's global engagement strategy, providing an essential platform to connect with international associations and networks. Dubai continues to use such platforms to strengthen global partnerships and attract events that support its economic, social and sustainability priorities.
