Latest news with #MALT)Congress
Zawya
02-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
MALT Congress 2025: Resounding success for incentive, business and luxury travel from the Middle East
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, organized by QnA International in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), concluded on February 19-20, 2025, marking another milestone in the Middle East's Business, Incentive and Luxury Travel industry. Held over two dynamic days, the event solidified its position as the region's premier platform for high-level carefully curated networking, strategic collaborations, and industry innovations. The MALT Congress 2025 attracted top-level travel and hospitality stakeholders, including global travel suppliers, top-tier travel agencies, corporate travel heads, and luxury concierge services. The event's meticulously curated one-on-one meetings fostered meaningful business connections and delivered tangible outcomes for participants, in addition to sharing the latest insights on the dynamic travel landscape from the region. Speaking on the emerging trends in the GCC travel market, Mr. Kanoo – Chairman of Advisory Board emphasized the rapid transformation taking place in the region: "The travel industry in the GCC is undergoing significant change, driven by dynamic growth in markets such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE. Travelers today are seeking more personalized engagement, luxury experiences, and immediate service delivery. From resorts and airlines to ground transportation, the entire ecosystem must adapt to meet these evolving expectations. The demand for luxury is clear, customers want to feel valued and attended to, and they expect convenience at every step. The challenge and opportunity for the industry lie in not only meeting these expectations but exceeding them, creating experiences that keep travelers coming back for more." Board member Anil Chandirani who is Group President of Satguru Travels and on the MALT, Board remarked on the growing interest in travel. The Founder of the 35-year-old travel conglomerate with operations across 80 countries said, 'Travel has changed and grown. People are exploring more and more. They are being adventurous with travel destinations, looking for upgrades ', Satguru Travels is a full-fledged agency that owns the travel portal Travel Wings and has recently acquired Orient Tours as well as Trav Trips, a pure holiday organizing company. Mr. Chandirani said the market has grown for both economy and luxury travel. Demand in all segments of the market has increased, even for business travel related to MICE. With over a decade of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Nasir Jamal Khan, CEO of Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism Agencies LLC and MALT Board members emphasized the value of networking at key events, saying, "I consider myself lucky that I never missed all these events; this is my 13th year." He highlighted the rapid recovery post-COVID in the region, noting, "We recovered the business volumes at the level of 2019 much earlier than expected." Mr. Nasir also observed the rise of online bookings in markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stating, "Online business has grown tremendously: Saudi Arabia has 75% penetration, and UAE has almost the same trend." Despite this, he stressed the continued importance of travel agents for personalized support, especially for cancellations and refunds: "People are now coming back to the travel agent to buy services - they appreciate having a responsible person who can address their queries and concerns." He noted the increasing popularity of luxury travel and shorter holiday durations, with travelers seeking more control over their plans: "Luxury travel has picked up a lot after COVID. People are booking shorter holidays." Lastly, he commented on rising costs in the industry, adding, "Airline fares are going up, hotel rates are up, but the occupancy rate is 95%.". Travel is here to stay despite higher costs. Mohamed Islam Salama, Senior Regional Director Client Executive EMEA, CWT from Egypt and Board member, MALT highlighted the increasing role of technology in travel and tourism. ' In our company we have lots of training on how to generate savings by using AI and it's a very sensitive subject, managed as such. As an American company we are very aware about protecting passenger information and not exposing it to an open environment like AI. We are also focused on sustainability and developing sophisticated techniques to measure the carbon footprint of travelers to meetings and events. ' The discussions flourished under the guidance of some of the most influential and visionary leaders in the industry, whose expertise and forward-thinking perspectives continue to shape the future of travel. Advisory Board members shared invaluable insights on evolving travel trends, market recovery, technological advancements, and sustainability, offering a roadmap for innovation and growth in the ever-changing landscape. Chris Flynn Executive Chairman of World Tourism Association for Culture & Heritage had a varied perspective on luxury travel. He said, ' We work with governments on how to build a better policy. Success of a destination should not be based on volume but on attracting the right type of tourist who will value the experience and respect your culture. When the right profile of traveler is attracted for the right reasons in optimum numbers, the impact on the industry and host country are excellent. ' The Congress concluded with the 8th Annual MALT Excellence Awards, celebrating industry visionaries and recognizing excellence across various categories: Best Corporate Travel Strategy of the Year: Caesars Travel Group MICE Innovator of the Year: Luxotic Events Best Incentive Program in an International Destination (Shared): Ali Bin Ali International Travel & Tourism W.L.L Mice Minds (an ITL World Company) MICE & Travel Team of the Year: Al Hashar Tourism and Travels LLC TMC of the Year - MICE: CWT Meetings & Events TMC of the Year – Luxury: Travel Counsellors UAE TMC of the Year: Cozmo Travel Industry Icon Award: Alaa Al Ali from Nirvana Rising Star of the Year Award: Kamal Kabsha from NAS, Kuwait Corporate Event of the Year: MCI Middle East LLC Women Leader of the Year: Aga Al Khatib Travel Procurement Leader of the Year: Eng. Saud Al Namshan Elite Luxury Travel Designer/Planner of the Year: Royal Class Travel & Tourism Outstanding Destination Wedding of the Year: TA Weddings and Events Hall of Fame Award (Lifetime Achievement Award): Mr. Mishal Kanoo Wrapping up the remarkable success of the 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, Mr. Sidh N.C., Director of QnA International reiterated the location of the MALT 2025 Congress. ' Abu Dhabi is a perfect location for this Congress. We are overwhelmed with the response.' ' The whole concept of MICE and Meetings and Luxury Travel is evolving in the Middle East. Middle Eastern travellers used to have a standard pattern of traveling to certain specific location and not go anywhere else. But it's changing because luxury is no longer about glitz and glam. Or VIP service, it's about connecting with nature. It's about sustainability. It's about all they want is just to unwind. It's different things to different people. We are looking forward to setting the trend year after year.' he added.
Mid East Info
01-03-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
MALT Congress 2025 : Resounding Success for Incentive, Business and Luxury Travel from the Middle East
Abu Dhabi, UAE – March 2025 – The 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, organized by QnA International in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), concluded on February 19-20, 2025, marking another milestone in the Middle East's Business, Incentive and Luxury Travel industry. Held over two dynamic days, the event solidified its position as the region's premier platform for high-level carefully curated networking, strategic collaborations, and industry innovations. The MALT Congress 2025 attracted top-level travel and hospitality stakeholders, including global travel suppliers, top-tier travel agencies, corporate travel heads, and luxury concierge services. The event's meticulously curated one-on-one meetings fostered meaningful business connections and delivered tangible outcomes for participants, in addition to sharing the latest insights on the dynamic travel landscape from the region. Speaking on the emerging trends in the GCC travel market, Mr. Kanoo – Chairman of Advisory Board emphasized the rapid transformation taking place in the region: 'The travel industry in the GCC is undergoing significant change, driven by dynamic growth in markets such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and the UAE. Travelers today are seeking more personalized engagement, luxury experiences, and immediate service delivery. From resorts and airlines to ground transportation, the entire ecosystem must adapt to meet these evolving expectations. The demand for luxury is clear, customers want to feel valued and attended to, and they expect convenience at every step. The challenge and opportunity for the industry lie in not only meeting these expectations but exceeding them, creating experiences that keep travelers coming back for more.' Board member Anil Chandirani who is Group President of Satguru Travels and on the MALT, Board remarked on the growing interest in travel. The Founder of the 35-year-old travel conglomerate with operations across 80 countries said, 'Travel has changed and grown. People are exploring more and more. They are being adventurous with travel destinations, looking for upgrades ', Satguru Travels is a full-fledged agency that owns the travel portal Travel Wings and has recently acquired Orient Tours as well as Trav Trips , a pure holiday organizing company. Mr. Chandirani said the market has grown for both economy and luxury travel. Demand in all segments of the market has increased, even for business travel related to MICE. With over a decade of experience in the travel and tourism industry, Mr. Nasir Jamal Khan, CEO of Al Naboodah Travel & Tourism Agencies LLC and MALT Board members emphasized the value of networking at key events, saying, 'I consider myself lucky that I never missed all these events; this is my 13th year.' He highlighted the rapid recovery post-COVID in the region, noting, 'We recovered the business volumes at the level of 2019 much earlier than expected.' Mr. Nasir also observed the rise of online bookings in markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, stating, 'Online business has grown tremendously: Saudi Arabia has 75% penetration, and UAE has almost the same trend.' Despite this, he stressed the continued importance of travel agents for personalized support, especially for cancellations and refunds: 'People are now coming back to the travel agent to buy services – they appreciate having a responsible person who can address their queries and concerns.' He noted the increasing popularity of luxury travel and shorter holiday durations, with travelers seeking more control over their plans: 'Luxury travel has picked up a lot after COVID. People are booking shorter holidays.' Lastly, he commented on rising costs in the industry, adding, 'Airline fares are going up, hotel rates are up, but the occupancy rate is 95%.'. Travel is here to stay despite higher costs. Mohamed Islam Salama, Senior Regional Director Client Executive EMEA, CWT from Egypt and Board member, MALT highlighted the increasing role of technology in travel and tourism. ' In our company we have lots of training on how to generate savings by using AI and it's a very sensitive subject, managed as such. As an American company we are very aware about protecting passenger information and not exposing it to an open environment like AI. We are also focused on sustainability and developing sophisticated techniques to measure the carbon footprint of travelers to meetings and events. ' The discussions flourished under the guidance of some of the most influential and visionary leaders in the industry, whose expertise and forward-thinking perspectives continue to shape the future of travel. Advisory Board members shared invaluable insights on evolving travel trends, market recovery, technological advancements, and sustainability, offering a roadmap for innovation and growth in the ever-changing landscape. Chris Flynn Executive Chairman of World Tourism Association for Culture & Heritage had a varied perspective on luxury travel. He said, ' We work with governments on how to build a better policy. Success of a destination should not be based on volume but on attracting the right type of tourist who will value the experience and respect your culture. When the right profile of traveler is attracted for the right reasons in optimum numbers, the impact on the industry and host country are excellent. ' The Congress concluded with the 8th Annual MALT Excellence Awards, celebrating industry visionaries and recognizing excellence across various categories: Best Corporate Travel Strategy of the Year: Caesars Travel Group MICE Innovator of the Year: Luxotic Events Best Incentive Program in an International Destination (Shared): Ali Bin Ali International Travel & Tourism W.L.L Mice Minds (an ITL World Company) MICE & Travel Team of the Year: Al Hashar Tourism and Travels LLC TMC of the Year – MICE: CWT Meetings & Events TMC of the Year – Luxury: Travel Counsellors UAE TMC of the Year: Cozmo Travel Industry Icon Award: Alaa Al Ali from Nirvana Rising Star of the Year Award: Kamal Kabsha from NAS, Kuwait Corporate Event of the Year: MCI Middle East LLC Women Leader of the Year: Aga Al Khatib Travel Procurement Leader of the Year: Eng. Saud Al Namshan Elite Luxury Travel Designer/Planner of the Year: Royal Class Travel & Tourism Outstanding Destination Wedding of the Year: TA Weddings and Events Hall of Fame Award (Lifetime Achievement Award): Mr. Mishal Kanoo Wrapping up the remarkable success of the 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, Mr. Sidh N.C., Director of QnA International reiterated the location of the MALT 2025 Congress. ' Abu Dhabi is a perfect location for this Congress. We are overwhelmed with the response .' ' The whole concept of MICE and Meetings and Luxury Travel is evolving in the Middle East. Middle Eastern travellers used to have a standard pattern of traveling to certain specific location and not go anywhere else. But it's changing because luxury is no longer about glitz and glam. Or VIP service, it's about connecting with nature. It's about sustainability. It's about all they want is just to unwind . It's different things to different people. We are looking forward to setting the trend year after year .' he added.
Trade Arabia
20-02-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
MALT Congress unveils top trends for Mideast luxury travellers
The 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, opened in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday (Feb 19) bringing together key players in the business, luxury travel and meetings industry to discuss the evolving trends shaping the future of outbound travel from the Middle East. Organised by QnA International and in partnership with the Host Sponsor - Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), the event will continue tomorrow. The event highlights the region's growing influence on global luxury travel, driven by a 21.6% increase in outbound travel spending in 2024, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council. The top 10 trends shaping Middle Eastern outbound MICE & luxury travel, highlighted by industry leaders at MALT Congress 2025 are: 1. Experiential Luxury: Beyond opulence: Middle Eastern travellers are shifting from traditional luxury to immersive, culturally rich experiences. Stephanie Tanpure, Vice President of Sales at Sands Resorts Macao, highlighted the importance of private VIP experiences and seamless comfort, including halal dining and Arabic-speaking staff. 'We have observed a strong shift toward high-end, immersive, and family-oriented travel among Middle Eastern visitors, with a focus on exclusivity and personalised experiences. Affluent travelers from the region increasingly seek private villa-style accommodations, VIP shopping, fine dining, and experiential travel that blends luxury with cultural and entertainment elements.' she adds. 2. Growing interest in winter holidays and cooler summer destinations: 'We are experiencing two main trends among Middle Eastern travellers into our destinations. First is a growing interest in winter holidays, particularly those centered on snow activities and the allure of the Northern Lights. In response, we carefully curate experiences that seamlessly blend the expectations of luxury, exceptional service, and premium amenities with the excitement of active, adventure-led getaways. Secondly, we are seeing increasing demand for cooler summer destinations, with travelers seeking mild climates where temperatures do not exceed 25°C," shares Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete. 3. Multi-generational travel: Catering to all ages: Family travel remains a cornerstone, with a focus on multi-generational trips. Andrew Gomes, Head of Sales at Royal Caribbean International, noted the surge in demand for family-centric travel, with accommodations and activities designed to cater to diverse age groups. Sergey Mandryka, Business Development Manager at Viadi Group SA, also pointed out the growing interest in family trips that incorporate immersive experiences, like husky sledding, helicopter tours, and curated excursions, to enhance their stay. 4. Wellness and holistic travel: A growing priority: Wellness tourism is on the rise, with travellers prioritising health and well-being. 'A growing segment is seeking wellness-focused travel. This encompasses everything from yoga retreats and spa breaks to mindful travel experiences that connect travellers with nature and promote inner peace'' shares Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, Abercrombie and Kent. Natali Oniani, Business Development Coordinator at GNTA, also noted the growth in wellness tourism, particularly in destinations like Georgia that offer unique cultural and wellness experiences. 5. Hyper-personalisation: Tailored to perfection: Generic luxury is out; hyper-personalisation is in. Elena Kosmina, Managing Partner at Qunota Travel Limited, stressed the importance of tailored itineraries, private butlers, and exclusive access to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. 'We collaborate with luxury brands, wellness retreats, and eco-friendly operators to provide diverse, high-value experiences," shares Elena. Shafiul Syed, CEO of Royal Jet, emphasised the demand for premium private jet services with personalisation, ensuring privacy and uninterrupted connectivity. 6. Emerging Destinations: beyond the beaten path: "Middle Eastern travellers are among the most well-travelled individuals in the world, having extensively explored traditional luxury destinations. As a result, they are increasingly seeking new inspirations, unique experiences, and untouched destinations that offer something beyond the familiar," shares Robin Eichmueller, Regional Director of Sales, Orascom Hotel Management. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez, Director of Spain Tourist Office for GCC Countries, reaffirmed the allure of new vistas and highlighted the promotion of eco-friendly travel and lesser-known regions in Spain. A&K's Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, adds: 'While traditional European hotspots remain popular, Middle Eastern travellers are increasingly adventurous, seeking out new and undiscovered destinations.' 7. Culinary Tourism: A feast for the senses: Food is central to the travel experience indicated by a growing interest in culinary tourism. Andrew Gomes also emphasized the role of halal-friendly dining and immersive cultural experiences for Middle Eastern travelers on their most popular sailings. "The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched a transformative initiative to establish Hong Kong as a top Muslim-friendly travel destination with a focus on food offerings as Muslim-friendly or halal-certified, along with assessing and certifying attractions, hotels, MICE venues," shares Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director Hong Kong Tourism Board. 8. Sustainability and responsible travel: A new mindset: Sustainability is becoming a key consideration. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez emphasised the promotion of eco-friendly destinations and authentic cultural experiences. Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete, also noted the growing interest in sustainable and culturally rich Scandinavian luxury experiences. Another growing trend is of trips around global events, such as sports championships, cultural festivals, and seasonal highlights like cherry blossom viewing or winter escapes. 'While Eid and regional holidays remain peak travel periods, travel in the colder season is increasing,' adds Elena Kosmina, Managing Partner, Q Travels. 9. Luxury shopping and high-end retail: A key attraction: Luxury shopping remains a significant draw. Stephanie Tanpure highlighted the importance of high-end retail destinations, such as The Shoppes at Londoner Macao, offering VIP services and private shopping experiences. Natali Oniani concurred pointing out the growth of high-end retail and luxury hospitality in Georgia. 10. Tech-Driven Convenience: Seamless connectivity: Middle Eastern travellers expect uninterrupted connectivity and advanced technological amenities. Shafiul Syed noted the importance of in-flight connectivity and personalised entertainment. Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), also emphasised the need for cultural inclusivity and luxury experiences, supported by seamless technological integration. Summarising the comprehensive industry feedback, and reflecting on the upcoming event, Sidh NC, Director of QnA International, says: 'Future travellers will look beyond luxury accommodations — they will crave immersive, exclusive, and seamless experiences that transform the very idea of travel.' The highlighted trends, along with key discussions such as the evolution of travel through heritage, innovation, and shifting expectations; the art of curating authentic, luxurious, and holistic hospitality experiences; and the rise of the Middle East as a dominant force in outbound luxury travel, will be explored in depth during the two-day conference in Abu Dhabi. - TradeArabia News Service
Web Release
17-02-2025
- Business
- Web Release
The 13th Annual MALT Congress Unveils Top 10 Trends for Middle East Luxury Travellers
The 13th Annual Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress, taking place in Abu Dhabi on 19th & 20th February 2025, will bring together key players in the business, luxury travel and meetings industry to discuss the evolving trends shaping the future of outbound travel from the Middle East. Organized by QnA International and in partnership with the Host Sponsor – Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB), the event will highlight the region's growing influence on global luxury travel, driven by a 21.6% increase in outbound travel spending in 2024, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council*. The top 10 trends shaping Middle Eastern outbound MICE & luxury travel, highlighted by industry leaders at MALT Congress 2025 are: Experiential Luxury: Beyond Opulence Middle Eastern travelers are shifting from traditional luxury to immersive, culturally rich experiences. Stephanie Tanpure, Vice President of Sales at Sands Resorts Macao, highlighted the importance of private VIP experiences and seamless comfort, including halal dining and Arabic-speaking staff. ' We have observed a strong shift toward high-end, immersive, and family-oriented travel among Middle Eastern visitors, with a focus on exclusivity and personalised experiences. Affluent travelers from the region increasingly seek private villa-style accommodations, VIP shopping, fine dining, and experiential travel that blends luxury with cultural and entertainment elements. ' she adds. Growing interest in winter holidays and cooler summer destinations ' We are experiencing two main trends among Middle Eastern travelers into our destinations. First is a growing interest in winter holidays, particularly those centered on snow activities and the allure of the Northern Lights. In response, we carefully curate experiences that seamlessly blend the expectations of luxury, exceptional service, and premium amenities with the excitement of active, adventure-led getaways. Secondly, we are seeing increasing demand for cooler summer destinations, with travelers seeking mild climates where temperatures do not exceed 25°C, '' shares Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete Multi-Generational Travel: Catering to All Ages Family travel remains a cornerstone, with a focus on multi-generational trips. Andrew Gomes, Head of Sales at Royal Caribbean International, noted the surge in demand for family-centric travel, with accommodations and activities designed to cater to diverse age groups. Sergey Mandryka, Business Development Manager at Viadi Group SA, also pointed out the growing interest in family trips that incorporate immersive experiences, like husky sledding, helicopter tours, and curated excursions, to enhance their stay. Wellness and Holistic Travel: A Growing Priority Wellness tourism is on the rise, with travelers prioritizing health and well-being. 'A growing segment is seeking wellness-focused travel. This encompasses everything from yoga retreats and spa breaks to mindful travel experiences that connect travellers with nature and promote inner peace'' shares Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, Abercrombie and Kent. Natali Oniani, Business Development Coordinator at GNTA, also noted the growth in wellness tourism, particularly in destinations like Georgia that offer unique cultural and wellness experiences. Hyper-Personalization: Tailored to Perfection Generic luxury is out; hyper-personalization is in. Elena Kosmina, Managing Partner at Qunota Travel Limited, stressed the importance of tailored itineraries, private butlers, and exclusive access to meet the expectations of discerning travelers. 'We collaborate with luxury brands, wellness retreats, and eco-friendly operators to provide diverse, high-value experiences' ' shares Elena. Shafiul Syed, CEO of Royal Jet, emphasized the demand for premium private jet services with personalization, ensuring privacy and uninterrupted connectivity. Emerging Destinations: Beyond the Beaten Path ''Middle Eastern travelers are among the most well-travelled individuals in the world, having extensively explored traditional luxury destinations. As a result, they are increasingly seeking new inspirations, unique experiences, and untouched destinations that offer something beyond the familiar,'' shares Robin Eichmueller, Regional Director of Sales, Orascom Hotel Management. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez, Director of Spain Tourist Office for GCC Countries, reaffirmed the allure of new vistas and highlighted the promotion of eco-friendly travel and lesser-known regions in Spain. A&K's Jennifer Charlton: SVP Trade Sales & Business Development, UK & EMEA, adds ' While traditional European hotspots remain popular, Middle Eastern travellers are increasingly adventurous, seeking out new and undiscovered destinations .' Culinary Tourism: A Feast for the Senses Food is central to the travel experience indicated by a growing interest in culinary tourism. Andrew Gomes also emphasized the role of halal-friendly dining and immersive cultural experiences for Middle Eastern travelers on their most popular sailings. ' 'The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has launched a transformative initiative to establish Hong Kong as a top Muslim-friendly travel destination with a focus on food o ? erings as Muslim-friendly or halal-certi?ed, along with assessing and certifying attractions, hotels, MICE venues'' shares Becky Ip: Deputy Executive Director Hong Kong Tourism Board Sustainability and Responsible Travel: A New Mindset Sustainability is becoming a key consideration. Carlos Ruiz Gonzalez emphasized the promotion of eco-friendly destinations and authentic cultural experiences. Erna Evudottir, Co-Founder & CEO of Destination Complete, also noted the growing interest in sustainable and culturally rich Scandinavian luxury experiences. Another growing trend is of trips around global events, such as sports championships, cultural festivals, and seasonal highlights like cherry blossom viewing or winter escapes. ' While Eid and regional holidays remain peak travel periods, travel in the colder season is increasing,' adds Elena Kosmina: Managing Partner, Q Travels Luxury Shopping and High-End Retail: A Key Attraction Luxury shopping remains a significant draw. Stephanie Tanpure highlighted the importance of high-end retail destinations, such as The Shoppes at Londoner Macao, offering VIP services and private shopping experiences. Natali Oniani concurred pointing out the growth of high-end retail and luxury hospitality in Georgia. Tech-Driven Convenience: Seamless Connectivity Middle Eastern travelers expect uninterrupted connectivity and advanced technological amenities. Shafiul Syed noted the importance of in-flight connectivity and personalized entertainment. Becky Ip, Deputy Executive Director of Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), also emphasized the need for cultural inclusivity and luxury experiences, supported by seamless technological integration. Summarizing the comprehensive industry feedback, and reflecting on the upcoming event, Mr. Sidh NC, Director of QnA International, says, 'F uture travellers will look beyond luxury accommodations—they will crave immersive, exclusive, and seamless experiences that transform the very idea of travel .' The highlighted trends, along with key discussions such as the evolution of travel through heritage, innovation, and shifting expectations; the art of curating authentic, luxurious, and holistic hospitality experiences; and the rise of the Middle East as a dominant force in outbound luxury travel, will be explored in depth during the two-day conference in Abu Dhabi. *
Mid East Info
31-01-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB) to Host The 13th ‘Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel Congress (MALT)' in February 2025
Abu Dhabi, UAE: The Meetings Arabia & Luxury Travel (MALT) Congress is set to return to Abu Dhabi for its 13th annual from 19-20 February 2025 , following a resounding success in the city last year. This is the second consecutive year ADCEB will be the host sponsor of this prestigious event organized by QnA International. As host sponsor, ADCEB will showcase the exceptional capabilities of the emirate's state-of-the-art infrastructure and unmatched accessibility. Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau (ADCEB) , part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) continues to highlight the emirates' value as a destination that combines excellence in terms of facilities with a progressive outlook on business, economy, innovation, and sustainability. Building on the momentum of the 2024 edition, which welcomed over 250 delegates and facilitated 1,800+ one-to-one meetings, this year's MALT Congress promises a vibrant B2B marketplace that unites leading MICE and luxury travel professionals. Attendees will explore emerging industry trends, forge strategic connections, and unlock collaborative opportunities, reinforcing Abu Dhabi's standing as a premier destination for transformative events. Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau , commented, 'We are pleased to welcome the annual MALT Congress back to Abu Dhabi, providing delegates with an engaging platform for collaboration in our ever-evolving industry. At ADCEB, we remain committed to creating a supportive ecosystem for our industry partners, working together to attract travelers to our region. This event also offers an opportunity to showcase the cultural depth of our emirate while reinforcing Abu Dhabi's standing as a global leader in crafting world-class events and experiences.' The return of the MALT Congress to Abu Dhabi cements the emirate's position as a leading Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) destination, combining world-class infrastructure, exceptional accessibility, and diverse leisure offerings. Supported by a dedication to hospitality and hosting excellence, Abu Dhabi provides a compelling backdrop for events like MALT, ensuring every delegate experiences a welcoming and memorable stay. ADCEB plays a pivotal role in this transformation, offering extensive support to event organizers throughout the event cycle; through initiatives ., such as ADCEB's incentive program, Advantage Abu Dhabi, bid advisory services, attendance-building strategies, and strategic partnerships with global MICE associations like the Society of Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) and United Networks of International Corporate Events Organizers (UNICEO). , ADCEB actively fosters Abu Dhabi's standing as a preferred destination for large-scale events. Advancing Innovation, Accessibility, and Sustainability ADCEB's collaboration with the MALT Congress aligns with Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030 , aimed at harnessing the MICE sector to unlock economic opportunities, amplify the emirate's distinctive culture, and enhance its global value proposition. ADCEB also emphasizes sustainability through initiatives such as the Carbon Calculator , which empowers hotels to monitor their carbon emissions, and accessibility guidelines ensuring inclusive experiences for all attendees. Guided by the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy , ADCEB exemplifies leadership in sustainable practices across tourism and event management. Tools like the Abu Dhabi Pass further elevate the visitor experience, offering value and convenience across over 40 attractions for delegates extending their stay. Why Abu Dhabi? Ranked as the safest city in the world by Numbeo* for eight consecutive years, Abu Dhabi is within a six-hour flight of two-thirds of the global population. Its top ranking for safety from Numbeo takes into account several factors that make living in a city attractive apart from safety, such as stability, health care, culture and environment, education, and infrastructure. Additionally, Abu Dhabi's infrastructure includes world-class hotels, cutting-edge conference facilities, renowned landmarks like Qasr Al Watan , Yas Marina Circuit , and leading theme parks such as Ferrari World Abu Dhabi . Additionally, Abu Dhabi remains at the forefront of innovation with accessibility guidelines, sustainability efforts, and cutting-edge technology to enhance the MICE experience. Over 90 local hotels have earned sustainability certifications, while initiatives like the Abu Dhabi Pass and tailored services for specific markets ensure a seamless and rewarding experience for all delegates. They also tailor services to meet particular needs, such as collaborating with platforms like WeChat Pay and Alipay to cater to Chinese MICE delegates. Director of QnA International, Sidh NC said, 'The 13th Annual MALT Congress is more than just an event; it's a platform where ideas are exchanged, partnerships are forged, and the future of MICE and luxury travel is shaped. Returning to Abu Dhabi, a city that exemplifies hospitality and global excellence, we are focused on creating an environment that fosters meaningful collaboration and shared success. Our mission is to empower the travel ecosystem with actionable insights and opportunities, ensuring everyone leaves inspired and equipped to drive progress in their own arenas.' As a vibrant and diverse hub for global events, Abu Dhabi invites delegates to immerse themselves in a destination where innovation, sustainability, and cultural richness converge to create extraordinary experiences. About QnA International: QnA International LLC is a global leader in B2B event organization, driving innovation in knowledge-sharing and business events for over a decade. Its diverse portfolio includes conferences, summits, and training programs across sectors such as trade finance, travel and tourism, technology, supply chain, destination weddings, and human resources. Based in Dubai, UAE, QnA International delivers world-class events in key global markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Mexico, India, Greece, Thailand, Georgia, and Indonesia, aligning with the evolving demands of the global economy.
