The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi received the ‘Best Stand in Middle East Region’ award at ITB Berlin in Germany for its outstanding pavilion setup, said a report.

DCT Abu Dhabi was joined by 48 partners and stakeholders between March 7 and 11, including Etihad Airways, as well as leading hotels, destination management companies; tour operators; and key attractions from across all three regions, said a report in WAM.

"We are very proud to pick up this award which is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved in showcasing the emirate here in Germany. Our pavilion was exciting and entertaining for our visitors, and gave people an immersive experience of visiting the emirate utilising virtual reality, the latest technology, and live demonstrations," the report said citing Sultan Al Mutawa Al Dhaheri, executive director – Tourism Sector at DCT Abu Dhabi.

"Our participation in ITB Berlin this year has been impressive. Abu Dhabi was also awarded in the 'Personal Security' category in the Destination Satisfaction Index, SDI, and seven of Abu Dhabi’s best hotels were also recognised," he added.