WTTC chief expects Abu Dhabi to be an echanting destination for Global Summit

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 and 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 and CEO of WTTC, said: “Our Global Summit is the most influential travel and tourism event of the year, bringing together almost 1,000 industry leaders to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing travel and 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 & 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. He stated:

“I can assure 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 center coupled with the attractions and recreational possibilities of a luxury destination.

“We understand the 2013 summit will include a diverse and profound program, 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 April 16-19, 2012, WTTC will host its 12th Global Summit in Tokyo/Sendai.

Follow WTTC on its official twitter feed @WTandTC.