Abu Dhabi Showcase, a new destination familiarisation initiative, was sold out over the last weekend as 52 of the GCC’s top tour operators arrived in the UAE capital to get the latest low-down on its events and attractions.

Launched by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA Abu Dhabi), the Showcase was supported by the emirate’s hospitality and attraction operators. The audience stayed at various hotels and resorts throughout the UAE capital and meet with 70 stakeholders to find out more about their offerings and strike specific deals.

“This showcase was timed to take advantage of the operators’ plans to attend Arabian Travel Market in Dubai this week – we brought them to Abu Dhabi first to see the destination for themselves and learn of the many GCC specific packages and products now being developed by our stakeholders to attract increased business from the market on our doorstep,” said Sultan Al Dhaheri, acting executive director Tourism, TCA Abu Dhabi.

During their stay, the operators were also given a pre-view of plans for an up-weighted Abu Dhabi Summer Season designed to appeal to UAE and GCC residents and visitors from India.

“We will be unveiling the programme at Arabian Travel Market this week but the opportunity to give the GCC operators an insight was too good to miss,” added Al Dhaheri.

An evening celebration of the Abu Dhabi Showcase was hosted by Yas Waterworld – the award-winning aqua park on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi’s entertainment destination.

“We made a Splash on Yas and for many operators, the chance to see the 43 rides and attractions – five of which are unique – opened up new business horizons,” added Al Dhaheri. The operators were offered free and discounted experience vouchers from Abu Dhabi’s stakeholders to spend the following two days discovering Abu Dhabi’s appeal at their leisure.

“This is the start of what we hope will be an annual showcase that will keep the relationship fresh and relevant,” said Al Dhaheri. – TradeArabia News Service