The largest ever Arabian Travel Market has opened its doors to the public as more than 2,000 destination, companies and tour operator from 70 countries look to woo potential end users.

Exhibitors have gone all out for the landmark 15th edition of Arabian Travel Market, which ends tonight at the Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre (DIECC), with performing acrobats, caricature artists, dance troupes and magicians adorning the intricate stands.

Dancers from internationally renowned performing group Cirque du Soleil are set to entertain crowds with their breathtaking dance routines and one-of-a-kind theatrical delights on the Nakheel stand.

 

Not to be outdone, Dubailand’s stand will boast a wide range of cartoon characters, superheroes and animated stars including those from Middle East phenomenon, Freej, Marvel’s Spiderman, The Hulk and The Thing, which were immortalised in recent cinema blockbusters and a host of other familiar faces.

 

However, many countries’ heritage and tradition will be on display. Dubai’s stand, which is organised by the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai, is showcasing the emirate’s old ‘pearling’ techniques and inviting visitors to sample the delights of Arab coffee.

 

On the Abu Dhabi stand, traditional falconers will be showing off the mighty bird’s prowess to onlookers.

 

“Exhibitors have gone all out this year to show the stunning diversity of their offerings. The public day is an excellent time for exhibitors to talk and promote their products directly to the end user. All businesses should be listening to the ‘man on the street’ and I believe that our industry is no different,” said Simon Press, Exhibition Director, Arabian Travel Market, which organised by Reed Travel Exhibitions.

 

“With over 70 countries represented at this year’s show, the public will be able to figuratively ‘travel around the world’ in one afternoon here to sample the delights of their favourite destinations.”

 

Many new destinations such as Bangladesh, The Philippines, Djibouti, Georgia, Senegal and Nepal are also at the show floor for the first time, allowing visitors to get a first hand account of what the country has to offer.

 

“Arabian Travel Market allows the public to see the different opportunities a country or company can offer in a face-to-face, interactive forum. It certainly beats making a decision from a catalogue,” added Press.

 

Arabian Travel Market will be on from 4-9pm today. This year, adults pay an AED 20 entry fee, while American Express cardmembers and accompanied youngsters under 16 are allowed in free.

 

Free car parking is available in car parks B&C, opposite the Novotel hotel, and car park F, adjacent to the Za’abeel Hall. Shuttle buses run continuously from 9.00am between these areas and the exhibition hall entrances near the Novotel and Ibis hotels.

 

Arabian Travel Market is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and under the auspices of the Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Government of Dubai.
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