The GCC tourism and hospitality industry is set to be worth $36.7 billion by 2020 with a number of scheduled global events, including Expo 2020 Dubai, expected to draw millions of visitors to the region, a report said, citing Euromonitor International.

The region remains on an upward trajectory as governments recognise the potential of the sector in enabling revenue diversification and job creation, while actively investing in its development, reported Wam, the Emirates official news agency.

This development will be supported by the upcoming GulfHost 2017 in Dubai, UAE, the first dedicated hospitality and food services expo in the Middle East, the report said.

The trade fair was launched during the recent Dubai International Hospitality Week by Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM).

Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the new exhibition is to take place from September 18 to 20.

It is located with four other shows, including DWTC’s established trio of niche food events The Speciality Food Festival, SEAFEX Middle East and Yummex Middle East and The Hotel Show, organised by dmg events, to enable the full spectrum of sourcing for one of the fastest-growing hotel, food and beverage, and tourism markets in the world.

Commenting on the industry, Trixie LohMirmand, senior vice president, Exhibitions and Events Management at DWTC, said: "Not only does Dubai lead the region in hospitality and tourism development, in some cases it leads the world. From major international hotel chains and restaurants to top celebrity chefs, and from world-class tourist attractions to the widest range of global cuisines, Dubai provides a reference point for even the most established of markets.”

"With the world’s leading trade events, such as Gulfood, playing a key role in bringing more suppliers and visitors to Dubai every year, compared to any other annual food trade show in the world, Dubai truly is on the hospitality map. Hosting Dubai International Hospitality Week and locating five complementary shows, adds yet another dimension of excellence," she added.

A first for the region, GulfHost showcases the A-Z of hospitality. It features a full inventory of back-of-house solutions that include commercial ovens, culinary equipment, fittings and utensils, as well as a wide spectrum of front-of-house elements to help deliver exceptional dining experiences that will stand out in a competitive market. Also on display will be the latest cafe-and-bar-counter solutions, products and services to serve one of the fastest-growing coffee cultures in the world.