Latest news with #InternationalAssociationofProfessionalCongressOrganisers
Travel Daily News
23-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
IAPCO survey highlights global trends shaping meetings in 2025
Geopolitical turmoil, policy changes, and economic uncertainty impacted 60% of IAPCO members, forcing event cancellations, destination shifts, and higher operational costs. Geopolitical instability, global conflicts, policy shifts, and economic uncertainty are increasingly affecting the international meetings and conference industry. The International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO), together with its network of national PCO associations and strategic global partners, conducted the Global Socio-Political Impact Survey 2025, offering an insightful overview of how recent developments are reshaping the sector. A landscape of continuous challenges According to the survey, nearly 60% of IAPCO members reported that their ability to organise or host international meetings has been affected – 45.24% moderately and 14.29% significantly. Additionally, 25% of member companies had to cancel, postpone, or relocate events due to safety concerns and regional instability. Key impacts include: Reduced international participation (52.38%) Travel disruptions (41.67%) Increased costs for clients and participants (32.14%) Security concerns at event locations (39.29%) Moreover, 48.81% of respondents observed a shift in preferred event destinations, while 22.62% noted a decline in willingness to travel internationally. Economic and policy-driven implications Uncertainty also strongly affects event budgets. 31.58% of organisers cited changes in government funding or grants, while 59.21% pointed to cuts that hinder the participation of academics and scientific experts. Significant concern is tied to U.S. policy changes. 47.36% of professionals stated that reforms under the Trump Administration have impacted their planning and execution capabilities. Budget cuts to top U.S. universities such as Columbia, Johns Hopkins, and Princeton are diminishing research output and participation in global conferences. The consequences extend beyond logistics – they threaten entire academic and advocacy fields such as global health, climate action, gender equality, and democratic development. IAPCO's role amid global disruption IAPCO remains the global benchmark for excellence in professional congress organisation. Members must pass annual peer-reviewed quality assessments and demonstrate leadership in efficiency, creativity, financial responsibility, and stakeholder management. In 2024 alone, IAPCO members delivered 19,469 events globally. Within this scope, 57.14% stated that 1–10 of their clients' venues were impacted by global unrest, while 5.95% experienced even higher impact levels. From a financial perspective, 26.83% of respondents reported losses of up to 50,000 euros, and 14.86% saw losses exceeding €150,000. Strategic foresight and global collaboration required The findings confirm that the global meetings and events industry is navigating a complex environment requiring flexibility, risk management, and collaborative resilience. IAPCO – with its 92 member companies and 180 global offices – continues to set the standard for quality, trust, and professionalism in an evolving marketplace. As Arnaldo Nardone, Chairman of FIEXPO Exhibition Group, aptly states: 'The difference IAPCO members make is clear: they elevate the quality of service provided by truly professional PCOs.' The meetings industry remains active and relevant – but to stay impactful, stakeholders must adapt to new realities, prioritize safety and sustainability, and strengthen global cooperation.
Hi Dubai
29-04-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
UAE Tourism Leaders Highlight Impact of Major Events on Economic Growth at Arabian Travel Market
Tourism leaders from across the UAE opened the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) today with a clear message: major events and festivals are vital engines for economic and social growth in the region. Speaking on the Business Events Stage, officials from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al Khaimah joined forces with the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) to explore how strategic event hosting is boosting destination appeal and driving lasting economic benefits. The panel was moderated by ICCA CEO Senthil Gopinath. Ahmed Al-Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, emphasized the transformative role of iconic events like the Dubai Shopping Festival in shaping the city's global reputation and economic success since 1996. Highlighting Abu Dhabi's approach, Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, said the capital's strategy focuses on creating a sustainable legacy aligned with Vision 2030, with events supporting sectors such as healthcare, innovation, and energy. Iyad Rasbey, VP of Destination Tourism Development at Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, noted that MICE events contributed to a 40% growth in tourism last year, with events like the Global Citizen Forum and Arab Aviation Summit significantly raising the Emirate's international profile. Elsewhere at ATM, executives from dnata Travel Group, and Airbnb discussed emerging travel microtrends such as sleep tourism and dark tourism, urging tourism providers to adapt strategies to evolving traveler behaviors. ATM 2025 is hosting 2,800 exhibitors and expects 55,000 attendees from over 161 countries, offering over 70 conference sessions and numerous networking opportunities across its expanded Business Events Stage. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Al Bawaba
29-04-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Business events and festivals set the stage for socio-economic growth, according to experts at Arabian Travel Market
On the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) today, tourism leaders from the UAE were joined by representatives from the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) on the Business Events Stage, to examine how major events and festivals are driving socio-economic growth in the UAE. Moderated by Senthil Gopinath, CEO, ICCA, the panel featured Ahmed Al-Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, Dubai Economy and Tourism; Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Department of Culture and Tourism; Iyad Rasbey, VP - Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority; and Martin Thomas Boyle, CEO, International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO). Together, they explored howevents are fostering socioeconomic growth and enhancing destination appeal across the Middle East region. Opening the session, Al-Khaja elaborated on the pivotal role that festivals in Dubai have played in shaping the city's cultural and economic landscape. Notably, he highlighted the Dubai Shopping Festival, which was launched in 1996, as a particularly influential event that not only attracts local residents but also draws tourists from around the world each year. Commenting on the events strategy for Abu Dhabi, Al Shamsi said: 'In recent years, Abu Dhabi has achieved remarkable success in hosting major exhibitions, conferences, and events, delivering clear economic benefits. However, our strategy extends beyond numbers and is focused on creating a long-lasting legacy that aligns with Vision 2030, with a focus on advancing key sectors including healthcare, innovation, sustainability and energy.' According to Rasbey, events have been key to Ras Al Khaimah's rising prominence: 'Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) is an important segment and has contributed significantly to our growth. Last year, Ras Al Khaimah achieved 40% growth, with MICE being the fourth largest segment contributing to this. 'It is vital for us to secure events that contribute to our growth and development. Examples of past events include the Global Citizen Forum, which attracted investors and high-net-worth individuals to the Emirate. In terms of tourism growth, hosting the Arab Aviation Summit enabled us to connect Ras Al Khaimah International Airport with 11 cities globally.' Elsewhere today, Fouad Talat, Regional Manager, John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group and Amani O'Neill, Senior Public Policy Manager, Middle East, Airbnb, discussed the microtrends redefining travel. During the engaging session, the speakers covered trends including sleep tourism, dark tourism and coffee tourism, outlining how these trends are impacting global travel behaviours and shaping the way destinations evolve and adapt. During the discussion, the speakers discussed how tourism providers should adjust their marketing strategies to align with these trends and provided practical applications for incorporating microtrends into long-term planning. Tomorrow at ATM, the Business Events Stage will host an exclusive networking session where participants will have the opportunity to engage with prominent international and regional associations to foster strategic relationships, unlock collaboration opportunities and exchange high-value business leads. This week, ATM will showcase 2,800 exhibitors and the event is expected to host 55,000 attendees from around the world. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights from over 200 high-profile speakers across more than 70 conference sessions on the Global Stage, Future Stage and the new Business Events Stage and connect with industry professionals from over 161 countries. The latest ATM news stories are available at
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Business events, festivals set the stage for socio-economic growth at Arabian Travel Market
DUBAI: On the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) today, tourism leaders from the UAE were joined by representatives from the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) on the Business Events Stage, to examine how major events and festivals are driving socio-economic growth in the UAE. Moderated by Senthil Gopinath, CEO, ICCA, the panel featured Ahmed Al-Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, Dubai Economy and Tourism; Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Department of Culture and Tourism; Iyad Rasbey, VP - Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority; and Martin Thomas Boyle, CEO, International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO). Together, they explored howevents are fostering socioeconomic growth and enhancing destination appeal across the Middle East region. Opening the session, Al-Khaja elaborated on the pivotal role that festivals in Dubai have played in shaping the city's cultural and economic landscape. Notably, he highlighted the Dubai Shopping Festival, which was launched in 1996, as a particularly influential event that not only attracts local residents but also draws tourists from around the world each year. Commenting on the events strategy for Abu Dhabi, Al Shamsi said: 'In recent years, Abu Dhabi has achieved remarkable success in hosting major exhibitions, conferences, and events, delivering clear economic benefits. However, our strategy extends beyond numbers and is focused on creating a long-lasting legacy that aligns with Vision 2030, with a focus on advancing key sectors including healthcare, innovation, sustainability and energy.' According to Rasbey, events have been key to Ras Al Khaimah's rising prominence: 'Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) is an important segment and has contributed significantly to our growth. Last year, Ras Al Khaimah achieved 40% growth, with MICE being the fourth largest segment contributing to this. 'It is vital for us to secure events that contribute to our growth and development. Examples of past events include the Global Citizen Forum, which attracted investors and high-net-worth individuals to the Emirate. In terms of tourism growth, hosting the Arab Aviation Summit enabled us to connect Ras Al Khaimah International Airport with 11 cities globally.' Elsewhere today, Fouad Talat, Regional Manager, John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group and Amani O'Neill, Senior Public Policy Manager, Middle East, Airbnb, discussed the microtrends redefining travel. During the engaging session, the speakers covered trends including sleep tourism, dark tourism and coffee tourism, outlining how these trends are impacting global travel behaviours and shaping the way destinations evolve and adapt. During the discussion, the speakers discussed how tourism providers should adjust their marketing strategies to align with these trends and provided practical applications for incorporating microtrends into long-term planning. Tomorrow at ATM, the Business Events Stage will host an exclusive networking session where participants will have the opportunity to engage with prominent international and regional associations to foster strategic relationships, unlock collaboration opportunities and exchange high-value business leads. This week, ATM will showcase 2,800 exhibitors and the event is expected to host 55,000 attendees from around the world. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights from over 200 high-profile speakers across more than 70 conference sessions on the Global Stage, Future Stage and the new Business Events Stage and connect with industry professionals from over 161 countries.
Trade Arabia
28-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Experts at ATM say business events boost socio-economic growth
On the opening day of Arabian Travel Market (ATM) today (April 28), tourism leaders from the UAE were joined by representatives from the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) and the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO) on the Business Events Stage, to examine how major events and festivals are driving socio-economic growth in the UAE. Moderated by Senthil Gopinath, CEO, ICCA, the panel featured Ahmed Al-Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, Dubai Economy and Tourism; Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, Department of Culture and Tourism; Iyad Rasbey, VP - Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority; and Martin Thomas Boyle, CEO, International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO). Together, they explored howevents are fostering socioeconomic growth and enhancing destination appeal across the Middle East region. Opening the session, Al-Khaja elaborated on the pivotal role that festivals in Dubai have played in shaping the city's cultural and economic landscape. Notably, he highlighted the Dubai Shopping Festival, which was launched in 1996, as a particularly influential event that not only attracts local residents but also draws tourists from around the world each year. Commenting on the events strategy for Abu Dhabi, Al Shamsi said: 'In recent years, Abu Dhabi has achieved remarkable success in hosting major exhibitions, conferences, and events, delivering clear economic benefits. However, our strategy extends beyond numbers and is focused on creating a long-lasting legacy that aligns with Vision 2030, with a focus on advancing key sectors including healthcare, innovation, sustainability and energy.' According to Rasbey, events have been key to Ras Al Khaimah's rising prominence: 'Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) is an important segment and has contributed significantly to our growth. Last year, Ras Al Khaimah achieved 40% growth, with MICE being the fourth largest segment contributing to this. 'It is vital for us to secure events that contribute to our growth and development. Examples of past events include the Global Citizen Forum, which attracted investors and high-net-worth individuals to the Emirate. In terms of tourism growth, hosting the Arab Aviation Summit enabled us to connect Ras Al Khaimah International Airport with 11 cities globally.' Elsewhere today, Fouad Talat, Regional Manager, John Bevan, CEO, dnata Travel Group and Amani O'Neill, Senior Public Policy Manager, Middle East, Airbnb, discussed the microtrends redefining travel. During the engaging session, the speakers covered trends including sleep tourism, dark tourism and coffee tourism, outlining how these trends are impacting global travel behaviours and shaping the way destinations evolve and adapt. During the discussion, the speakers discussed how tourism providers should adjust their marketing strategies to align with these trends and provided practical applications for incorporating microtrends into long-term planning. Tomorrow (April 29) at ATM, the Business Events Stage will host an exclusive networking session where participants will have the opportunity to engage with prominent international and regional associations to foster strategic relationships, unlock collaboration opportunities and exchange high-value business leads.
