The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is set to host the inaugural APAC Travel Marketplace in Al Ain on October 15 and 16, 2024. This exclusive B2B event will bring together over 200 travel agents from the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region and 60 key stakeholders from Abu Dhabi, aiming to strengthen tourism ties and highlight the emirate’s unique travel offerings.
The invite-only marketplace is designed to facilitate deeper collaboration between APAC travel trade partners and Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector. With both pre-familiarization (pre-FAM) and post-familiarization (post-FAM) activities planned, attendees will get a firsthand experience of Abu Dhabi’s diverse attractions, ranging from the bustling capital city to the historic landscapes of Al Ain and the serene Al Dhafra region.
Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, will deliver a keynote address emphasizing Abu Dhabi’s growing momentum as a favoured destination for APAC travellers. The event will also feature plenary sessions and one-on-one meetings, enabling in-depth discussions on collaboration, tourism growth, and the potential of expanding the emirate’s presence in APAC markets.
“This marketplace provides an ideal platform for us to showcase Abu Dhabi’s extensive offerings to travel agents from key markets across the Asia-Pacific region,” said Yousuf. “We are committed to creating long-term relationships with our APAC partners and exploring new opportunities for growth.”
The APAC Travel Marketplace is a strategic initiative under Abu Dhabi’s broader Tourism Strategy 2030, which focuses on developing the emirate as a global tourism hub through innovation, sustainability, and strategic partnerships. The event serves as a crucial step in DCT Abu Dhabi’s efforts to drive tourism growth, especially by tapping into emerging markets across Asia-Pacific.
By creating dynamic connections with APAC travel professionals, the Department aims to position Abu Dhabi as a top destination for culture, heritage, adventure, and luxury travel, ensuring a sustainable and innovative future for the emirate’s tourism industry.
This event marks a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi’s pursuit of becoming a leading global travel destination, offering exceptional experiences and fostering success for the international travel community.
