VisitBritain, UK’s national tourism agency, in association with Tourism Ireland, has launched a major business-to-business travel trade event, Destination Britain & Ireland (Debi), in Dubai.

The event, which opened yesterday (May 10), will run until May 13 at the Grand Hyatt Dubai.

Debi is VisitBritain’s biggest trade event of its kind in the Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa region (Apmea), with more than 200 key companies and travel industry specialists attending the three day event.

Sandie Dawe, chief executive, VisitBritain, welcomed more than 200 guests to Debi 2010, which has recorded an increase of 25 per cent attendance from new companies from the UK and Ireland.

This year is the seventh consecutive year that Debi has taken place in Asia Pacific. Previous locations include Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, China, Australia and Hong Kong.

“UK and Ireland remain popular destinations for Middle East Travellers.” said Carol Maddison, UAE marketing manager, VisitBritain.

“2010 has been a record year in terms of attendance, with 80 suppliers from 64 companies showcasing their latest travel and tourism packages.”

“The travel and tourism packages that are being showcased certainly bring to light the indisputable value-for-money travel deals which the regional market will continue to enjoy. With a significant year- on- year increase in GCC visitors to the UK and Ireland, Dubai is the ideal location for holding this event,” Maddison added.

Emirates airline is working closely with VisitBritain and Tourism Ireland on this event, and will be the official airline carrier at Debi 2010. – TradeArabia News Service