Abu Dhabi to host WTTC’s Global Summit in 2013

Press release

Published November 29th, 2011 - 08:37 GMT

Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) today announced that it will hold its 13th Global Summit in Abu Dhabi in April/May 2013. Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) and Etihad Airways will be official hosts of the biggest annual gathering of travel & tourism leaders.

WTTC’s decision was based on Abu Dhabi’s compelling presentation, the enthusiasm of government and industry agencies, accessibility of the destination, a high standard of capability and evidence of green tourism growth as a key development strategy.

David Scowsill, President & CEO of WTTC, said “Our Global Summit is the most influential travel & tourism event of the year, bringing together almost 1,000 industry leaders, to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing travel & tourism today. I’m very pleased that Abu Dhabi will host our 2013 Global Summit. With its distinctive Arabian hospitality and world-class infrastructure, Abu Dhabi will be an enchanting destination for our top-level delegates.”

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ Chief Executive Officer, said: “We are delighted Abu Dhabi has been chosen to host the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Global Summit in 2013. Abu Dhabi’s global profile as a business and tourism destination rises by the day and the decision to make the emirate the venue for the Summit reflects this. Etihad Airways will do everything it can to support the Summit and to ensure delegates have the best possible experience.”

News of the award was enthusiastically received by ADTA. Its Director General, HE Mubarak Al Muhairi thanked WTTC for its confidence in the destination and pledged to fully support the summit.

“I can assure the WTTC, its members and colleagues that they will receive the warmest of welcomes and highest levels of professional service from this emirate, which is rapidly emerging as a world-class meetings destination.

“This is a sterling example of two stakeholders coming together to achieve success. The joint ADTA-Etihad proposition hinged on providing a unique combination of benefits – the facilities and services of a leading international business centre coupled with the attractions and recreational possibilities of a luxury destination.

“We understand the 2013 summit will include a diverse and profound programme as well as numerous opportunities for people to interact in an environment that transcends disciplinary, cultural and national barriers.”

A Memorandum of Understanding between WTTC, ADTA and Etihad has been signed in the UAE capital.

On 16-19 April 2012 WTTC will host its12th Global Summit in Tokyo/Sendai.

Background Information

Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress and helps achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the Emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the Emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.

DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the Emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.