As markets across the Middle East look to diversify their economies, the launch of Dubai International Hospitality Week (DIHW) in September this year is recognition of the hospitality sector as a key driver of GDP growth in the region.

Endorsed by Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism), what will be the largest hotel and foodservice expo in the Middle East takes place from September 18-20 and includes six co-located trade shows: GulfHost, owned and organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC); The Hotel Show and The Leisure Show, owned and organised by dmg events; and The Speciality Food Festival (DWTC), Seafex Middle East (DWTC) and yummex ME, jointly organised by DWTC and Kölnmesse.

The scale of DIHW is unprecedented for the global hospitality sector, bringing together more than 2,000 of the world’s top hospitality brands from across the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Middle East. The full spectrum of products and services required to operate hospitality businesses – whether global hotel chains, fine dining restaurants, quick service outlets or independent coffee shops – will be showcased between the six complementary shows.  

More than 50,000 visitors, including buyers from top groups that include Crowne Plaza, Dubai Duty Free, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, Hilton Hotels & Resorts, IHG, Marriott and Spinneys, among others, will be making key purchasing decisions during the show, ahead of the sector’s high season.  

Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “The hospitality sector has long been a key pillar of Dubai’s tourism industry and the emirate’s wider economy. The dramatic growth we’ve seen in the sector over the years is testament to the attractiveness of Dubai as an investment prospect and a destination that prides itself in offering an environment that facilitates and supports business success. We are therefore very pleased to launch Dubai International Hospitality Week as a platform enabling the region’s hospitality players to come together, exchange knowledge and learnings, and create valuable opportunities for future growth.”  
     
There are currently more than 800 hotels under construction in the Middle East and Africa, equating to over 200,000 rooms according to STR, with an urgent requirement for furnishings, equipment, technology and hardware to enable completion as quickly as possible. Equally, the foodservice sector continues to grow with a current CAGR of 7.6 per cent, and is expected to reach a value of $58.7 billion by 2021.

The co-location of shows under the DIHW umbrella offers efficiencies and convenience for professionals and buyers on a scale not previously available in the region. GulfHost 2017 boasts a dedicated portfolio of hospitality and catering equipment solutions for both front and back of house, while The Hotel Show showcases products and services for every aspect of hotel development, from build to technology. The Leisure Show takes this further with a focus on the leisure aspects of a hotel or resort including pool and spa, and sports and fitness. The Speciality Food Events by Gulfood include The Speciality Food Festival for gourmet, artisan, organic and halal foods, SEAFEX Middle East for seafood, and yummex ME for an extensive offering of global snacks and confectionery.

DIHW will take place from September 18-20 at Dubai World Trade Centre. - TradeArabia News Service