Reed set to launch GIBTM in Abu Dhabi

GIBTM will be held March 27-29, 2007 at the newly built National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The inaugural event, organised by UK-based Reed Travel Exhibitions in association with the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), will bring together 175 travel industry exhibitors from across the Gulf region and the key Asian, Mediterranean and European markets. ADTA Chairman HH Sheikh Sultan Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, said GIBTM is significant to Abu Dhabi on several levels. He said: "It will attract a large and influential segment of the international travel trade, providing them with first-hand experience of the destination and its attractions. "It will also underline our commitment to attracting world-class exhibitions and provide a showcase for the newly redeveloped facilities at ADNEC." Paul Kennedy, Reed group exhibition director, said: "To enable hosted buyers to travel and be accommodated, we contractually require them to attend a minimum of eight one-on-one prescheduled business meetings per day with exhibitors. "This translates to literally thousands of appointments organised before the event takes place, while still leaving ample time for hosted buyers to visit any parts of the event that they wish." Half of GIBTM's 3,500 sqm designated area is expected to be occupied by destinations and private-sector business from within the Gulf region. The remaining half will be used by global hotel groups and international destinations. In addition to 250-300 hosted buyers drawn from Europe, Asia and the Middle East, the show will have 1,500-2,000 trade visitors and 100 press representatives.