HOSTED buyer registrations are now being taken for the biggest Mice event in the region.
Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM) is inviting meeting planners, incentives buyers and decision makers to apply for hosted buyer status at the event to be held at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre in March.
The hosted buyer programme provides exclusive business meeting opportunities for more than 300 international and regional senior-level buyers and decision makers who are looking for new ideas and venues for their meetings, incentive programmes, events and conferences.
To assist in the recruitment of senior-level buyers, GIBTM is working together with group coordinators from associations, agencies, publications and hotel groups from around the world who commit to bring 10 or more buyers to the show and a number have already confirmed their participation including The DMC Group, Expert Avis, Fore Representations & Travels, HelmsBriscoe, HPN Global, InterContinental Hotel Group, MeetMe, Moulden Marketing and TTN.
Lloyd Kenyon, exhibition manager, explained that attending as a hosted buyer includes a number of VIP benefits.
“Hosted buyers receive complimentary return economy flights on Etihad Airways (if required and route permitting) and accommodation in a four- or five-star Abu Dhabi hotel. There are also free transfers from the airport and official hotels to the venue, as well as access to the exclusive hosted buyer lounge onsite.
“In addition, they get priority appointments with exhibitors via our buyer-driven pre-scheduled appointment system allowing up to 10 one-on-one meetings with suppliers per day, as well as access to a personalised online diary. Our group co-ordinators also benefit greatly from the programme, as they too have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with top clients, receive VIP treatment and enjoy complimentary travel and accommodation when bringing a qualified group of 10 or more.”
And to add extra interest for overseas buyers, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority will be hosting an ‘Abu Dhabi Day’ prior to the exhibition offering an opportunity to explore the city of Abu Dhabi.