Doing business at GIBTM in 2007

Abu Dhabi will, once again, be the focus for the Gulf region’s meetings industry.

Last year, GIBTM (Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings) was launched with a clear purpose to help this region compete with the rest of the world for some of the biggest conferences, congresses and events. 
“At a time when many people don’t even realise they are working in the meetings profession, GIBTM welcomed more than 1,000 local visitors who came to see, listen, do business and learn,” a statement from organisers Reed Travel Exhibitions said.
“The purpose of GIBTM is to bring together everyone who is involved in organising events, business travel, meetings, conferences and anything that requires a choice of destination, venue, airline, hotel, or needs all of the ancillary support services. 
“Its a unique opportunity with a real objective  to get the profession formerly recognised, to provide a wealth of information, inspiration and education, that will help the region show the world that it has some of the best placed facilities for this global industry.”
GIBTM takes place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Company Centre (Adnec) from April 8-10.  The organisers have asked those wishing to register to do so online (http://www.gibtm.travel) to avoid queues.
“One of the key elements to GIBTM is its education programme which is definitely the most comprehensive ever delivered in the region and free to all visitors,” the statement said. 
“Focusing at all levels of entry, from those who have just started in the industry to those who are professionals, the various seminars will provide an in depth look at key topics and issues. 
“As outsiders see the region develop exponentially, these seminars provide the building blocks for everyone from the region who wants to learn how to work with and plan for some of the worlds most prestigious events.
“Every year this education will add to an individual’s knowledge and help them to gain advantage in their own jobs and careers. Whether it’s dealing with complex legal issues, the preparation of international contracts, or listening to a debate on how to attract and retain quality staff, the seminar programme is available every day.
“The very latest technology is presented, and workshops will help one learn how to create a really sensational event and if one wants to understand how international planners decide on a destination, one can listen to a panel discussion about the criteria they use. There is even an opportunity to learn how to market one’s company to attract international interest.”
The 2008 event will be larger than the first show with an increased number of regional and international meetings and incentive suppliers from national tourist organisations, convention bureaus, hotels and hotel groups, destination management companies and specialist service providers.
The global line-up of cities/countries will include Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Cyprus, Egypt, Sharjah, India, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Sri Lanka.
Major hotels groups and leading hotels will take part including Rotana Hotels, Suites & Resorts, Starwood, Kempinski and Jumeirah. For the first time an area totally devoted to technology will give an insight into all of the support systems to make event planning right up to date.
Off the show floor, there is also a networking programme of events open to all visitors giving time to socialise with industry experts and colleagues.
Graeme Barnett, exhibition director, commented that GIBTM was determined to provide a rich and diverse exhibitor representation for all buyers and visitors, mixed with an education programme that establishes the event as the key platform for regional and international business.
“We have introduced a new product and services gallery on the GIBTM website which allows everyone to view in advance the types of products being showcased, to make best use of their time at the show,” he said.
“So if you, or anyone in your company or appointed travel expert is responsible for organising business meetings, conferences, event planning or your company incentives then you should not miss the second edition of GIBTM Exhibition.
“If that’s not enough you can also attend the first Meetings Professionals International (MPI) Gulf Meetings and Events Conference taking place in Dubai just prior to GIBTM.  Both events will create a week dedicated to providing a focus for the industry sector by delivering an educational, business and networking opportunity for the whole Gulf region.”