Hilton International has confirmed an increased level of participation from its global portfolio at the forthcoming ATM. A number of senior sales and marketing representatives, as well as personnel from 22 properties worldwide, will travel to Dubai especially for the event.
"This increased level of international participation is indicative of a resurgence in consumer confidence in the travel sector both regionally and worldwide. All our properties in the Middle East are taking part, as well as hotels from Cyprus, Germany, Italy, Maldives, Mauritius, Munich, Turkey, Thailand and UK," said Rudi Jagersbacher, vice-president of operations, Hilton International. Having long recognised the Middle East region as one of enormous potential, Hilton now operates 31 regional properties, 14 of which are in the Gulf. As one of the first international hotel chains to enter the UAE market, many of Hilton's most established regional properties are located in the UAE. Hilton Al Ain opened in 1972, the award-winning Hilton Abu Dhabi followed in 1973, this year marking its 30th anniversary, while Hilton Fujairah celebrates its 25th anniversary. Exhibiting at ATM for the tenth consecutive year, Hilton will launch a new brand product, an ambitious summer programme while also announcing a number of regional and global marketing initiatives for 2003. "ATM is of the utmost importance and will be utilised as a platform to kick-start activities following an uncertain first quarter in the region. As an international travel hub, Dubai is the perfect location for an exhibition such as ATM, and our representatives really look forward to a successful and productive visit," continued Jagersbacher. Hilton is one of the most established international hotel chains in the Middle East, recognising the region's enormous tourism potential in the early 1970s. Since then, Hilton has worked with the various tourism departments to successfully implement a dynamic programme of growth and development for the area. "Hilton's combination of in-depth regional knowledge and international hospitality expertise sets the standard. Our market knowledge is second to none and with a strong product offering and constant innovation, we intend to maintain our position as the accommodation provider of choice for many international and regional travellers to the region. Our future plans reflect our confidence, and we greatly look forward to sharing this with our travel industry partners at ATM," said Guy Epsom, regional director of sales and marketing, Arabian Peninsula, Hilton International. The Hilton stand can be found in the Airport Expo-Dubai, West Hall, Stand number 420.