Having been visitors to GIBTM since its inception Movenpick Hotels & Resorts have taken the plunge and will be exhibiting at this year’s event showcasing a few select hotels from the Middle East region.
The decision was taken because the group has seen the growth of the show and the fact that it provides an ideal platform to showcase upcoming destinations and hotels as well as existing properties. On the stand this year will be 12 properties from UAE, Egypt, Qatar, Jordan, Lebanon and select destinations in Africa.
“We are conscious of trying to appeal to the needs of the buyers and will be showcasing those destinations which are a little different,” said Toufic Tamim, vice president sales and marketing Middle East Movenpick Hotels & Resorts.
“Yemen, for example, is one such country that, once the political situation stabilises is a unique MICE destination. There are very few countries that can offer such authenticity and this is important for discerning buyers who want venues that are less ordinary.”
Tamim cites the benefits of exhibiting at GIBTM as twofold: first the show brings together international buyers and exhibitors under one roof allowing hotels to meet new buyers and to showcase properties to those interested in the Middle East.
The show also offers an unparalleled opportunity in which to learn about new trends and developments within the industry.
“Despite the current economic downturn and the political instability the Middle East will continue to be one of the most sought after incentive destination over the coming five years,” said Tamim. “The proximity to both Europe and Asia and its history, archaeology and ancient cultures as well as the impressive meeting and conference venues and excellent service standards, make the entire region unique.”
“We are confident that the incentive market will drop only slightly from 2008 in terms of frequency. What will change, however, is the duration of these meetings. Many organisations will opt for shorter events and they will seek venues closer to home to cut down on travel expenses,” he concluded.