The MoU aims to enhance Abu Dhabi’s position as a global destination for business and investment events

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ADDCI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). The MoU aims to enhance cooperation and joint coordination between the two parties to consolidate the standing of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi as a global destination and a prestigious hub for hosting local, regional, and international business and investment events.

The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Business Events Forum, which was held on 26-27 September. The MoU signing was held in the presence of His Excellency Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, and His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, the Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi, along with a number of representatives from both sides.

The MoU supports the two parties’ mutual strategic objectives for strengthening the leading position of Abu Dhabi as a preferred destination for hosting international events, and a key hub for supporting, developing, and growing businesses in vital sectors. Under the terms of the MoU, the two parties will also coordinate closely to highlight various events and conferences, and exchange knowledge and expertise to drive business events growth.

His Excellency Ahmed Khalifa Al Qubaisi, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Chamber, said: “The Emirate of Abu Dhabi has been successful in establishing its leading position on the global business tourism landscape. The Emirate has attracted and hosted prominent business events, which culminated in its recognition as the Middle East’s leading destination for association meetings conferred by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) 2022’s ranking.”

“This success comes as the result of the efforts of various parties in the public and private sectors, particularly the efforts of our partners at the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, who aim to consolidate the Emirate’s position as a leading global destination that has the main assets for hosting prestigious business events.”

Al Qubaisi added: “The signing of the MoU aligns with the Abu Dhabi Chamber’s efforts to partner with local and federal entities to foster strong investment and commercial relations. We are also committed to supporting various business events, forums, and conferences in the Emirate. This reflects the Chamber’s recognition of the importance of the business tourism sector and global events in enhancing networking opportunities between business communities and investors, building fruitful partnerships and cooperation agreements, and driving sustainable development.”

His Excellency Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at DCT Abu Dhabi said “We take great pride in the signing of this MoU during the Abu Dhabi Business Events Forum, an integral part of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Travel & Tourism Week. Showcasing the power of partnerships, the MoU reaffirms our commitment to fostering innovative and transformative business and investment events, taking the emirate to new heights as a prominent MICE destination.”

He added: “MICE events play a pivotal role in driving economic growth, fostering innovation and igniting creativity. By fostering the spirit of collaboration, we are catalysing a rich, diverse and vibrant experience for visitors and residents alike.”

The MoU also stipulates that the two parties strengthen their joint efforts to coordinate trade delegation visits, and find effective communication channels to achieve the desired outcomes.