Big, themed events planned and executed across the Middle East will continue to grow in size and stature over the next few years, as regional organisers implement increasingly rigorous standards of excellence comparable with the world’s very largest and most prestigious gatherings, keynote speakers told Festivale attendees.
The three-day Festivale convention examined how major entertainment, commercial and sporting events are staged, by bringing leading event planners, destination managers, and organisers to the region.
“The Middle East big events market is growing beyond anyone’s prediction, and it’s not limited to any one regional country. There is enormous demand for professional event management skills in every Arab capital, as public and private groups play host to international calibre sport, musical, cultural, and business meetings of tremendous size and importance,” said Sabine Enthammer, executive director conferences, IIR Middle East, organisers of Festivale 2005.
“We expect that Festivale will continue to provide these regional meetings and events professionals with an annual forum for thought-provoking discussion on the world’s very latest industry trends and methodologies for applying excellence to the execution of their respective exhibitions, gatherings, festivals, and functions.”
The conference at the Dubai World Trade Centre examined issues from conception to final implementation, encompassing subjects such as planning and branding, logistics, budgeting, health and safety, marketing and emergency planning.
Speakers at the convention included, Saeed M. Al Nabouda, chief executive officer, Dubai Shopping Festival; Tim Roberts, health and safety coordinator for the Glastonbury music festival; John Kennedy, director Cork 2005, European Capital of Culture; and Claire Holder, managing director, The Carnival Roadshow Company.