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In the first half of 2023, Dubai demonstrated an astonishing 44% increase in its business event bid victories, highlighting its soaring stature as a top-tier global destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE). This notable achievement strengthens Dubai’s economic vitality, aligning perfectly with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

Dubai Business Events (DBE), the official convention bureau for the city and an arm of the Department of Economy and Tourism, in collaboration with partners and stakeholders, successfully secured 143 high-profile business events in the initial six months of the year. This astounding victory will bring over 94,000 global experts and sector leaders to the city in the coming years, bolstering the city’s burgeoning knowledge-based economy.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, DFRE

This unprecedented success story of business event bids is a testament to Dubai’s vibrant momentum across its broader economy and the growing strength of its business events sector. The slew of events won includes 24 association conferences, congresses, and meetings, positioning Dubai at the forefront of global knowledge sharing. The city’s successful bid wins also comprised 84 incentives, primarily attributed to renewed growth from China and the sustained momentum from India.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, emphasized that this landmark achievement is guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and the strategic objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.

“Dubai’s unique proposition, shaped by world-class business events infrastructure, facilities, and diverse expertise across key sectors, is resonating effectively with global meeting professionals and decision-makers,” said Al Khaja.

He further credited the culture of collaboration DBE has fostered, working with public and private sector entities across the city to identify, bid for, and capture premier business events. Every bid victory amplifies the commitment of DBE and its partners to hosting major associations and organizations, showcasing Dubai at the heart of global advancements.

The ambitious Dubai Economic Agenda D33, announced earlier this year, delineates key targets to expand trade, foster sector development, and boost innovation and sustainability across the economy. It positions business events as crucial drivers at the juncture of business and knowledge development, contributing to Dubai’s progressive growth in visitation. The D33 agenda also seeks to enhance innovation, transform Dubai into a global hub for higher education, and augment foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows.

Elaborating on the future prospects, Al Khaja commented, “With D33 setting ambitious targets over the next decade, we anticipate Dubai’s business events sector to be a significant catalyst and contributor to economic growth.”

Successful bids in H1 2023 ensure Dubai will host several association events in the coming years, such as the IATA AGM 2024, the World Library and Information Congress 2024, and the International Trademark Association’s Annual Meeting 2026.

In winning these prestigious event bids, the collaborative efforts of DBE have been crucial. DBE worked closely with the city’s business events stakeholders, such as hotels, airlines, venues, and professional congress organizers, to create a compelling proposition for event organizers.

DBE’s relentless commitment to collaboration is also showcased through the Al Safeer Congress Ambassador Programme, an innovative initiative that leverages the expertise of industry leaders to identify and secure major international business events.

DBE conducted sales missions across Europe, North America, and China in the year’s first half, inviting meeting planners worldwide to experience Dubai’s impressive capabilities firsthand. This engagement significantly enhanced Dubai’s appeal among meeting planners, association executives, and key industry decision-makers.

For more information about hosting conferences, congresses, meetings, and incentives in Dubai, contact [email protected] or visit www.dubaibusinessevents.com.