The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has announced the second edition of the ITCA Dubai Exhibition and Conference.

This is the most specialised travel catering and in-flight service exhibition and conference for the Middle East, Africa and Indian Subcontinent.

ITCA Dubai – formerly known as MENA Travel Catering, will take place from December 11 to 13, 2007, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

ITCA Dubai is partnering with the International Travel Catering Association (ITCA) and is sponsored by Emirates. The event will consist of a specialised trade exhibition and high profile conference designed to introduce food, foodservice, hospitality, in-flight suppliers and caterers to Procurement, In-flight Service, Purchasing Managers and CEOs from the regional airline and cruiseline sectors, said an official spokesman.

“DWTC is delighted to host and work with ITCA again on this exhibition to support the regional growth of the travel catering sector and its service providers. This reflects both the strategic positioning of the region in this fast-growing industry, as well as the attractiveness of Dubai as a venue for major meetings. Dubai is the perfect location for such an event as it is not only recognized as the business hub for the Middle East, but is also one of the fastest growing countries for aviation and transport in the region.” said director general, DWTC, Helal Saeed Al Marri.

Dubai reported passenger growth at 16 per cent per annum and reports predict the airport to be bigger than Heathrow by 2010. In addition, the new airport projects in the UAE account for 60 per cent of all airport investments in the Gulf.

Many leading service suppliers to the in-flight and cruise line industries have already confirmed their participation at ITCA Dubai 2007. These include City Chef Catering, Emirates Flight Catering, Gate Gourmet, Servair and Watermark among others. - TradeArabia News Service