Hosted buyer registration opened for the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM), a large meetings expo that takes place March 24-26, 2014, at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
All meetings industry professionals interested in attending the show with hosted buyer status can apply at www.gibtm.com/hbapply.
“The feedback we received last year and 99 percent satisfaction rate recorded post show has been extremely encouraging, and as a result of the growing demand we are witnessing from international buyers who are looking to harness the potential of the rapidly developing meetings industry in the Middle East, we have extended the hosted buyer allocation to over 300 buyers this year,” said Lois Hall, event manager for GIBTM, Reed Travel Exhibitions.
Hosted buyers attending will receive a personalized diary of pre-scheduled business appointments selected by them in advance of GIBTM with key regional exhibitors, including Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, Egyptian Tourist Authority, Qatar Tourism Authority and Kingdom of Bahrain Tourism Sector, Ministry of Culture, which already confirmed its participation at the show.
“We are also anticipating that the show will generate around 8,500 pre-scheduled business appointments between hosted buyers and the growing number of exhibitors who have already signed up to take part,” said Jacqui Kavanagh, managing director, Trinity Conferences.”
Kavanagh attended GIBTM 2013 as an international hosted buyer from The UK.
“This is an important show to attend if you are serious about understanding who the movers and shakers are in this industry. The UAE is a growth market for us because it is deemed safe, has invested in infrastructure, has fantastic hotels and is building up its credentials as a conference destination. Abu Dhabi also has a lot more to offer now, and the show has helped me to gain some valuable contacts,” she added.
Accepted Buyers will also receive direct access to the newly launched GIBTM Knowledge program and invitations to a range of exclusive networking events as well as complimentary return flights, transfers and four- and five-star accommodation.
“This show changed my perceptions of the UAE and what it has to offer. It’s definitely unique and different, and I will be considering both Dubai and Abu Dhabi for more clients, depending on their requirements. I would definitely recommend a meeting in Abu Dhabi,” said Grace Dzvairo, global account executive, Conference Direct.
Dzvairo also attended in 2013 as an international hosted buyer from Washington, D.C.
GIBTM is also incorporating a number of new regional post event tour options for international hosted buyers. Show organizers confirmed Bahrain, Jordan and Qatar will participate, which will host groups of top international meeting and incentive buyers directly after GIBTM 2014. For more information, visit www.gibtm.com/hbtours.
