Annual Report 2021

Page 1

ANNUAL REPORT

2021


CONTACT DETAILS

ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITIONS COMPANY KHALEEJ AL ARABI STREET

P.O.BOX 5546, ABU DHABI UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

TEL: +971 2 444 6900 FAX: +971 2 444 6135

Acronyms used within this annual report ADQ ADCB ADIPEC ADNEC AACC ADSG EHSMS

Abu Dhabi Al Qabida Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company Al Ain Convention Centre Abu Dhabi Sustainability Group Environment, Health and Safety Management system

ICCA IDEX MICE DCT UFI WFES KM MCC

International Congress and Convention Association International Defence Exhibition and Conference Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions Department of Culture and Tourism The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry World Future Energy Summit Knowledge Management Monitoring and Control Centre


ADNEC GROUP VENUES

EXHIBITIONS

HOTELS

SERVICES

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

TOURISM


CONTENT ANNUAL REPORT

ESG REPORT

ADNEC GROUP............................................................................6

ADNEC GROUP........................................................................ 02

Group Vision........................................................................................................... 7 Group Mission...................................................................................................... 7 Group Values.......................................................................................................... 7 2021 At A Glance.............................................................................................. 8

About this report ...................................................................................... 04

Message from the Chairman........................................................ 11 Message from the MD & Group CEO................................. 13 Board of Directors...................................................................................... 14 Management Team.................................................................................. 15 ADNEC GROUP 2021 HIGHLIGHTS.........................16 Venues........................................................................................................................ 18 Exhibitions............................................................................................................. 20 Hotels........................................................................................................................... 22 Services...................................................................................................................... 24 ADNEC Services LLC ................................................................ 24 Capital Hospitality....................................................................... 25 Tourism365....................................................................................... 26

Case Study ( IDEX & NAVDEX ).................................................... 28 Case Study ( HITB & Cyberweek )............................................ 30 VENUES HIGHLIGHTS.........................................................32

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................. 08 Environment..................................................................................................... 08 Social........................................................................................................................... 08 Governance....................................................................................................012 ENVIRONMENT...................................................................014 Environmental Management and Eco Design..........................................................................................015 Water Management............................................................................020 Energy Consumption........................................................................021 Atmospheric Emission Related to Energy Consumption........................................................................023 Waste Management............................................................................023 SOCIAL........................................................................................024 Customers.........................................................................................................026 Suppliers ............................................................................................................029 Human Capital............................................................................................033 Human Rights ............................................................................................038 Community ...................................................................................................043

Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre............................ 32

GOVERNANCE......................................................................050

ExCeL London ................................................................................................. 33

Board of Directors .................................................................................051 Audit and Internal Control........................................... 055 Transparency and Business Practices .................. 060 Regional challenge: Nationalisation ..................... 063

BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS....................................................36 STRATEGY, INNOVATION & EXCELLENCE.......52


5

16

Group Highlights

28

Case Studies

32

Venues Highlights

36

Business Highlights

52

Strategy, Innovation & Excellence


6

ADNEC GROUP

Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), is part of ADQ, one of the region’s largest holding companies with a diverse portfolio of major enterprises spanning key sectors of Abu Dhabi’s non-oil economy. ADNEC is a leader in managing and developing international strategic centres and was founded with a vision to become the leading destination for popular, high-profile international conferences, exhibitions and congresses in the Middle East and North Africa. It owns and operates the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the largest exhibition venue in the MENA region. In addition, ADNEC also includes ExCeL London, Al Ain Convention Centre, Aloft London ExCeL, DoubleTree Hilton ExCeL London, Aloft Abu Dhabi, Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi Resort, and Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, “ADNEC Services LLC”, Capital Hospitality, “Tourism 365” and Capital Events LLC. ADNEC Group is developing its network of companies, enhancing business tourism in Abu Dhabi by creating a platform that enables event organisers to connect with people in worldclass events and venues. ADNEC delivers best-in class services which exceed stakeholder expectations.


7

GROUP VISION

A SYNERGETIC WORLD CLASS GROUP OF LEADING BUSINESS ENTITIES THAT ARE COMMITTED TO MAXIMISE THE ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL VALUE WHERE WE OPERATE.

GROUP MISSION

TO MAXIMISE THE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS TO ABU DHABI’S TOURISM SECTOR THROUGH SYNERGISTICALLY MANAGING A GROUP OF BUSINESS ENTITIES TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN WORLD-CLASS FACILITIES AND SERVICES THAT EXCEED SHAREHOLDER AND STAKEHOLDERS’ EXPECTATIONS.

GROUP VALUES OUR VALUES SHAPE THE CULTURE OF OUR GROUP AND GUIDE US IN EVERYTHING WE DO. THEY STEER OUR BEHAVIOURS AND INSPIRE WORK ACCOUNTABILITY.

WORK TOGETHER

CREATIVE & INNOVATIVE

STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE

PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO


8

2021 AT A GLANCE 2021 was a landmark year for the ADNEC Group as the organisation expanded its mandate, diversified its portfolio, made significant investments and ventured into new sectors. The year began with a return to in-person events in February. The ADNEC organised IDEX and NAVDEX, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces took place safely and successfully, heralding a return to events.

Significant infrastructure investments were also announced for ExCeL London and Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre – reaffirming ADNEC’s leading global position in the business tourism sector. ExCeL London’s expansion plans will increase event space by 25,000sqm by 2024 providing enhanced facilities for exhibitions, meetings and conferences. The development at Abu Dhabi National Centre will see the largest exhibition hall in the MENA region opening in October 2022. Located at ADNEC Marina, the 10,000sqm hall will be the first of its kind in the region to be located on a waterfront.

Key strategic asset transfers by holding company ADQ saw ADNEC Group’s hotel portfolio expand to include leisure resort hotels, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi Resort and Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. Coupled with the acquisition of the Doubletree Hilton London ExCeL, the group’s hotel portfolio increased to a total of six properties.


9

ADNEC Group expanded its mandate from increasing business tourism to cover all tourism in Abu Dhabi. The group launched Tourism 365 which established Capital Experience, a destination management company and Capital Travel, an out-bound tourism business. Since launching in the summer, Tourism 365 companies have already been appointed to manage ground handling for MSC Cruises, TUI Cruises and A World events for Abu Dhabi bound tourists.

ADNEC Group acquired the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR Abu Dhabi). The region’s leading conference covering the security equipment sector will be added to ADNEC’s event portfolio. Furthermore, ADNEC launched Global Media Congress in partnership with the Emirates News Agency (WAM), a new show taking place in November 2022.

Further portfolio diversification came as two Etihad business units joined the ADNEC Group. Etihad Airport Services Catering joined ADNEC’s catering business Capital Hospitality and Etihad Holidays are now operated by Tourism 365.

ADNEC Group’s venues won 5 prestigious industry awards for excellence and the group was signatory to the Net Zero Carbon Events pledge, a new event industry initiative to address climate change, that coincided with the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26). ADNEC group commits to produce net zero carbon footprint events by 2050 as part of its pledge to support the sustainable future of the MICE industry.


10


11

MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN CAPTAIN MOHAMED JUMA AL SHAMISI With a mandate to support Abu Dhabi’s economy through the tourism sector, Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) recorded a successful 2021 and continued to rise against the challenges presented by the global pandemic with a future-ready approach, consistently delivering world-class facilities and the highest standards of services. Thanks to the unwavering support and directives of our wise leadership, last year, we achieved a number of major successes and milestones that powered the return and successful delivery of globally reputed events attended by the greats of international and regional industry players further cementing the Group’s position at the forefront of Abu Dhabi’s diversification efforts. We proudly welcomed the world of business and leisure to Abu Dhabi last year, reaffirming the emirate’s position as a global destination and thriving hub. Through a multitude of high-level services, facilities, assets and companies, we attracted thousands of visitors from across the world. The combination of ADNEC’s exceptional infrastructure, resilience, highly skilled teams and strategic investments made throughout the year, this enabled business continuity and high performance across the Group. We adopted a diversification strategy with investments in new business entities, leisure tourism and the acquisition of new hotels in line with our leadership vision to maximise social and economic benefits to Abu Dhabi. A differentiated portfolio in 2021 enabled the Group to go above and beyond customer expectations by building on the success of the previous years. The Group is committed to maintaining its focus on delivering a highly competitive offering, supporting sustainable development and increasing economic contribution while benefiting global stakeholders.


12


13

MESSAGE FROM THE MANAGING DIRECTOR & GROUP CEO HUMAID MATAR AL DHAHERI 2021 was a year of both challenges and progress for the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) with the Group impacted by the ongoing global pandemic and far-reaching international travel restrictions. I am proud of what the Group and our valued employees, stakeholders and partners collectively achieved as we entered a period of recovery and navigated a pathway to sustained growth. The Group made significant investments during 2021, we expanded our mandate to leisure tourism sector, which contributes to our approach of diversifying our portfolio. Our business mandate expansion was led by the launch of Tourism 365 to complement our portfolio, and bolstering the tourism industry ecosystem across the Capital to become the leading tourist destination in the MENA region. In line with ADNEC’s long-term investment strategy of business diversification, the Group acquired multiple new assets, including hotels and new business units, contributing to achieving optimal integration of its assets through various economic sectors. This diversification is driving the sustainable development of local communities around both exhibition centres in Abu Dhabi and London, whilst simultaneously supporting business and leisure tourism in the UAE and UK. Important infrastructure investments agreed during 2021 for both ADNEC and ExCeL London cemented plans to significantly increase the overall size and capacity of both major exhibition centres. ADNEC welcomed a successful start to the year in Q1, proudly spearheading the successful return of in person events to the Nation’s capital, with major editions of IDEX and NAVDEX. These prestigious events brought together global industry leaders with momentous success, reflecting ADNEC’s future ready plans during the recovery phase of the pandemic. In 2021 the Group continued its support to the government by offering

our facilities to support the efforts in fighting the pandemic in the UAE and United Kingdom. Q4 was a key turning point for the ADNEC, with the build-up of strategic global events such as the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition Conference (ADIPEC) which witnessed strong attendance from industry professionals and senior decision makers. Significant emphasis was placed on bringing new high level events to Abu Dhabi with ADNEC Group acquiring the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR Abu Dhabi) and ADNEC launching the Global Media Congress, a new event for 2022. It is remarkable how much we have accomplished with our positive results which saw the successful return of in person events, and our steadfast commitment to continue to grow, adapt and diversify our business whilst supporting our communities, partners, stakeholders and employee. Our success is testament to the dedicated and committed teams who constantly strive to elevate the company’s standard of excellence, flexibility and adopting best practices at both local and international levels. Together, with our partners, we have overcome unprecedented challenges of recent years and look forward to a bright future ahead as we continue to evolve our business throughout the recovery phase of the global pandemic and navigate a pathway to sustained success. ADNEC’s vision and key learnings has prepared for a successful year in 2022 and this important strategy has contributed to our mission to enhance Abu Dhabi’s position and reputation. We remain confident that ADNEC will continue to maximise the social and economic benefits to Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector through synergistically managing a group of business entities to provide and maintain world-class facilities and services that exceed shareholder expectations.


14

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

CAPTAIN MOHAMED JUMA AL SHAMISI Chairman

HAMAD HAREB AL MUHAIRI

HUMAID MATAR AL DHAHERI

IMAN AL QASIM

KEVIN MURPHY

GERALD LAWLESS

ROQUE SOLABARRIETA

Board Member

Board Member

Board Member

Managing Director & Group CEO

Board Member

Board Member


15

MANAGEMENT TEAM

HUMAID MATAR AL DHAHERI Managing Director & Group CEO

MIKE HENDERSON

AHMED AL OBAIDLI

KHALIFA AL QUBAISI

SAEED AL SHAMSI

Group Chief Strategy and Finance Officer

Chief Commercial Officer

Chief Operations Officer

Chief Human Capital Officer

SAEED AL MANSOORI

ROULA JOUNY

JONATHAN DOWSE

AHMAD SHAKER

Executive Director Capital Events

Executive DirectorCapital Hospitality

Executive Director Tourism 365

Executive Director ADNEC Services


16

ADNEC GROUP

ADNEC GROUP 2021 HIGHLIGHTS 3 New companies established 2 Venues expansion 2 Companies transferred to ADNEC

AED 2.4 Billion Economic Impact

3 Hotels acquired

9 Award wins

1 event acquired 1 event launched

800,000 Visitors

+

8

New events

16

Exhibitions

325, 671 Visitors

13,392

Jobs supported

46

60 Exhibitions

Conferences & special events

84

Local and international events

30 Conferences


17

AWARDS We are proud to say that ADNEC Group companies continue to be recognised for excellence by the international MICE industry, winning nine awards across the group. Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre won three awards in 2021

Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) Human Resources Award

Best International Venue at the Exhibition News awards and was recognised at the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), Marketing Awards

London ExCeL was recognised at the World MICE Awards as England’s Best Convention Centre, Best UK Conference Centre (Bronze) at the M&IT Awards, Business Superbrand 2021, Best Staff Support (Bronze) at the London Venue Awards, The Sustainability Award (Bronze) London Venue Awards, and Best COVID-19 Response at the London Venue Awards


18

ADNEC GROUP ADNEC GROUP’S VENUES CONSIST OF ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE, AL AIN CONVENTION CENTRE AND EXCEL LONDON ALONG WITH SEVERAL HOTELS AND BUSINESS ENTITIES UNDER ITS UMBRELLA. ADNEC’S THREE VENUES HOST SOME OF THE WORLD’S LEADING EVENTS AND ARE MULTI-AWARD WINNING CENTRES OFFERING ORGANISERS OF EXHIBITIONS, CONFERENCES AND EVENTS OUTSTANDING FACILITIES. ADNEC is on a continued mission to maintain the excellence in our services provided within its venues to encourage more partnerships, reward creativity and pursue excellence in the business tourism sector. ADNEC’s venues help the Emirate achieve its long-term goals of economic growth and diversification.

VENUES

ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre is a multi-award winning venue offering organisers of exhibitions, conferences, and events outstanding facilities spread over a total space of 142,226 square metres.

This includes versatile spaces suitable for medium to large scale conferences of up to 6,000 people, 12 exhibition halls, a stunning banqueting facility, in addition to ‘The HIVE’ the creative meeting spaces and engaging environment, as well as outdoor space which includes a grandstand and an impressive Marina. A complete venue solution, ADNEC also boasts a range of restaurants, cafes, shops and business facilities as well as six

on-site hotels offering c.18.00 rooms. ADNEC is conveniently located only 15 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport and 15 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi. As well as superlative facilities and services, ADNEC also has in-house services from its own award-winning caterer, Capital Hospitality, and logistics arm ADNEC Services to provide a turnkey solution to both organisers and exhibitors.


19

AL AIN CONVENTION CENTRE Al Ain Convention Centre hosts some of the leading business and consumer events. From the methodical to the magical, there is no better platform in Al Ain to set your imagination free and deliver lasting memories for all those involved. Featuring a unique architectural design in harmony with the city’s heritage, Al Ain Convention Centre provides exceptional venue facilities for exhibitions, conferences, weddings, as well as other special events. Located in the heart of Al Ain city, the convention centre is a dedicated stateof-the-art venue that offers organisers a total space of 20,000 square metres. Al Ain Convention Centre delivers comprehensive, innovative, and high quality services, perfect for staging any type of event.

ExCeL LONDON London’s largest international exhibition and convention centre, ExCeL London, was acquired by ADNEC in 2008. The 100,000 square metre venue includes the UK Capital’s only International Convention Centre, ICC London, which includes the UK’s largest fully-flexible auditorium for up to 7,000 delegates. ExCeL also boasts London’s largest banqueting hall for up to 3,000 guests, as well as conference facilities which can accommodate 50 to 1,200 delegates.


20

ADNEC GROUP

EXHIBITIONS Capital Events

Capital Events is a leading organiser of some of the Middle East’s and the world’s flagship exhibitions and conferences. Part of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company Group (ADNEC), and based out of the capital of the UAE, Capital Events offers internationally leading event organising capabilities

and services to clients and exhibitors choosing to partner with the company. Among the events which the company organises are the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX), the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX), the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX) and the Simulation and Training Exhibition and Conference (SimTEX), the International Exhibition for National

Security and Resilience (ISNR Abu Dhabi), SIAL Middle East (SIAL ME), the Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition, Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS) and the Global Media Congress (GMC). As a regional industry leader, Capital Events fosters commercial relationships and cultural exchange to enable future business possibility, alongside supporting the growth of Abu Dhabi as a global centre for business tourism.

IDEX First held in 1993, IDEX, the largest triservice defence exhibition in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2019. IDEX takes place biennially, and is organised by Capital Events in association with the UAE Armed Forces GHQ.

NAVDEX NAVDEX is part of the world’s leading joint defence exhibition and is co-located with IDEX. NAVDEX demonstrates the latest technology across land, sea, and air sectors of defence. It is a unique platform to establish and strengthen relationships with government departments, businesses, and armed forces.

UMEX AND SimTEX UMEX and SimTEX showcase the MENA region’s industry leading and growing unmanned and simulation systems segments. They are ideally positioned to provide a professional platform for manufacturers, sharing important views and experiences with key players in the field. The events additionally promote the defence, environmental, civil and humanitarian benefits of unmanned and simulation systems.


21

ISNR ISNR was launched in 2008 with the support of the UAE Ministry of Interior. ISNR brings the national & cyber security community together to accelerate public private collaboration for a safer connected world. The event is held bi-annually.

ADIBS The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show is unique to Abu Dhabi and the region. It caters for all marine industry professionals, as well as the whole family seeking a great day out or a weekend. The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show is the perfect platform to discover the latest ways to enjoy all aspects of marine leisure, water-sports and fishing in and around Abu Dhabi, with a whole range of opportunities to get out on the water.

SIAL ME SIAL Middle East is a joint venture between Capital Events and Comexposium. SIAL has established itself as one of the largest fairs for the food and beverage in the hospitality industry in the Middle East and the MENA region for 10 years.

Global Media Congress (GMC) The Global Media Congress (GMC) will take place for the first time in 2022, organised by ADNEC in a strategic partnership with Emirates News Agency (WAM). The event will include a media exhibition and conference, which will enable various media organisations to discuss partnerships aimed at developing messages that will serve humanity and support communities through providing useful and credible content.


22

ADNEC GROUP

HOTELS

ADNEC Group has a long track record in overseeing successful hotel assets. The company has six hotels in its portfolio both locally in Abu Dhabi and abroad in the United Kingdom along with 20% share of some other hotels.

ANdAZ CAPITAL GATE HOTEL - ABU DHABI Located in the iconic Capital Gate tower, the five star ANdAZ Capital Gate hotel provides 188 rooms and unsurpassed views of the city and coastline. It was the first ANdAZ hotel in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The on-site hotel is directly connected to ADNEC.

ALOFT ABU DHABI HOTEL Owned by ADNEC Group and operated by Marriott International, Aloft Abu Dhabi is the largest Aloft hotel in Europe, Middle East, and Africa region. The four star hotel offers 408 rooms over 12-storeys and is connected to ADNEC by internal walkways.

ANANTARA SIR BANI YAS ISLAND Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island provides three distinct hotels on an island off the coastline of the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Turquoise ocean and teaming wildlife are the view outside of the 124 villas, suites, and rooms available on the Island. The resort was voted as the 10th best resort in the Middle East by the Conde Nast Awards 2020. Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island is a two hour and fifteen minute drive from ADNEC, with a 25 minute boat ride to the island. Flights are also available from Abu Dhabi to Sir Bani Yas Island.


23

QASR AL SARAB DESERT RESORT BY ANANTARA Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is situated in the towering dunes of the Empty Quarter in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. The resort provides 205 exclusive rooms, suites, and villas, surrounded by stunning landscape and defined by iconic Arabian hospitality. The resort has been voted the number one resort in the Middle East in 2020 and number 26 globally by Conde Nast Awards. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara is a two hour and fifteen minute drive from ADNEC.

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON LONDON EXCEL DoubleTree By Hilton London ExCeL was acquired by ADNEC in 2021, and is the sixth addition to the company’s hotel portfolio. Situated next to ExCeL London, the awardwinning exhibition centre in the UK capital, DoubleTree By Hilton ExCeL London contains 287 rooms and lies on the banks of the Royal Docks, near Canary Wharf.

ALOFT LONDON EXCEL In 2011, ExCeL London opened the UK’s first Starwood Aloft hotel. Aloft London ExCeL was built by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company and is linked to the ICC London ExCeL. The four-star, 252 room hotel is located right next to the Prince Regent DLR station and is just minutes away from London City Airport, Canary Wharf, and more.


24

ADNEC GROUP

SERVICES

ADNEC Group owns a diversity of award-winning companies, including Capital Hospitality, ADNEC Services, and Tourism 365, allowing the Group to deliver integrated services across a wide range of sectors.

ADNEC SERVICES LLC ADNEC Services is a fully integrated business unit of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC). A leading brand and event agency, ADNEC Services works with clients to seamlessly and successfully bring their ideas to life. From initial design strategy to execution, their professional team works to clients’ objectives, audience and communication strategy to deliver authentic engagement and real-world results. ADNEC Services offers organisers, event planners and exhibitors a wide range of customised turnkey solutions which include; Event Management, Design, Brand Experience, Audio Visual Production, Stand Build, Main Contracting, Graphics and Rigging.


25

CAPITAL HOSPITALITY Capital Hospitality is a premier hospitality service provider, part of Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC). Capital Hospitality provides sensational cuisine, seamless planning and design for gatherings. From the beginning, the company embraced the philosophy of making a special extra effort in everything they deliver. They aim to go beyond the expected and that is the reason they have emerged as a prominent player in the catering industry of the UAE. Whether it is a wedding, a milestone, a celebration, or an intimate gathering, the company will truly make that extra effort to render any event memorable, masterful, and delicious. This is the ethos of Capital Hospitality, and their team of experts is dedicated to making sure every detail is carefully organised so that any event turns into a splendid and celebrated gathering. Capital Hospitality offers custom menus backed by a unique bespoke catering experience, brought to life by impassioned professionals.


26

ADNEC GROUP

SERVICES

TOURISM 365

Tourism 365 was launched by ADNEC Group in 2021 to generate experiential travel opportunities for tourists coming to Abu Dhabi. The company enhances Abu Dhabi’s regional and global positioning across the wider tourism sector. It is formed of two subsidiaries: Capital Experience and Capital Travel.


27

CAPITAL EXPERIENCE Capital Experience is a subsidiary of Tourism 365, and is a highquality destination management company. It works to ensure premium experiential travel opportunities for tourists among the Middle East and the world.

CAPITAL TRAVEL Capital Travel is a travel solutions provider in the Emirates, and it has been established to fulfill the travel industry vision of ADNEC Group. The company aims to serve individual customers, government and corporate companies through inbound and outbound travel management services using its solid relationships with partners worldwide.


28

ADNEC GROUP

CASE STUDY

62,445

visitors from across the world were attracted to IDEX and NAVDEX 2021 across the five days.

IDEX & NAVDEX 21-25 February 2021 The 15th edition of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX), the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) took place 21-25 February and saw extensive local and international participation. This was the first global defence event to take place in the post pandemic recovery stage, with 62,445 attendees at the venue across five days. 900 exhibitors, 59 countries, and 35 international pavilions participated in IDEX and NAVDEX 2021, alongside five countries participating in the exhibitions for the first time: Israel, North Macedonia, Luxembourg, Portugal, and Azerbaijan. Capital Events, a subsidiary of Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), organises the bi-annual IDEX NAVDEX, hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

The events were meticulously planned in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the General Command of the UAE Armed Forces and serviced by event services and catering subsidiaries ADNEC Services and Capital Hospitality. ADNEC and Capital Events were deeply committed to the 2021 editions of IDEX, NAVDEX being in-person events and feedback from partners and exhibitors showed that they were enthusiastic about coming together again and meeting in-person. ADNEC received an unprecedented level of support across the board to ensure that IDEX and NAVDEX 2021 would go ahead in complete safety without impacting on the overall event experience, as the first international events to be launched in the COVID-19 recovery phase in Abu Dhabi.

With global travel restrictions in mind, ADNEC obtained a quarantine exemption for international exhibitors and visitors to the events in October 2020 from Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (part of the Department of Health, Abu Dhabi), months before Abu Dhabi’s borders re-opened to international visitors The events are overseen by the ‘Higher Organising Committee’ with representatives from the relevant entities coming together to oversee each aspect of the event (e.g. media and country delegations) with, quite literally, military precision ensuring that exhibitors meet the right buyers and official delegations. ADNEC developed stringent, approved COVID safety protocols and guidelines in line with best industry practice (referencing


29

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri Managing Director & Group CEO - ADNEC

Today brings an end to an edition which was described as one of the most successful global events organised in the post pandemic phase by participants, exhibitors, and visitors alike. In organising these two exhibitions, we have met and exceeded the aspirations of all attending this edition.

ICCA, UFI and AIPC) and international and governmental health and safety guidelines which governed all aspects of the events (referencing WHO). Communication was key, and the organisers published detailed safety measure guides and travel guide videos for all participants. Safety measures included a maximum capacity as controlled by the registration team to allow for 4sqm of safe physical distance per participant. This figure was also used to calculate networking areas and exhibition spaces. Safe networking areas were also created with a maximum of 4 per table for attendees to connect and meet in an informal setting. There were wider gangways and a one-way system managed by a team of wellness ambassadors.

96% of visitors and exhibitors to IDEX and NAVDEX were satisfied with the exhibition, which is considered one of the highest rates in the global exhibition and conference sector. The wide range of precautionary protocols which ADNEC rigorously implemented across its infrastructure also met the approval of those visiting IDEX and NAVDEX, as well as specialists in the exhibition and conference sector. During the first four days of the exhibitions, 98% of participants and visitors shared that they were satisfied with the preventative and

Regular thermal scanning, face masks were mandatory at all times, in addition to this, signage to remind visitors to keep a safe distance and maintain hand hygiene were installed throughout the venue. As a matter of course, the venue was sanitised frequently and fogged every night during the build and the show days. During build-up, contractors were split over two shifts to minimise the contact and number of staff on-site at any one time. For the first time ever, IDEX issued print-at-home badges which could be presented at either Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Sharjah airports for entry into the Emirate without the need to quarantine. The airports and borders sub-committee worked together to create a seamless experience. Participants needed to test every 48 hours for entry to the show and

precautionary measures implemented, while 99% of participants stated they felt safe inside ADNEC. Doubtlessly, these figures demonstrate the accomplishment of this year of IDEX and NAVDEX. Lessons learnt here will support the wider resurgence of the business tourism sector, both at a local and international level. Across the five days, IDEX and NAVDEX attracted 62,445 visitors from across the world. Such numbers demonstrate how exhibitors focus on specialised international events. It is a source of deep pride that we have been able to welcome the world, once again.

Capital Events worked with the Abu Dhabi convention bureau to have a network of 19 recommended hotels with onsite PCR testing facilities available, as well as test centres at the ADNEC venue to ensure easy access with fast results. As an extra layer of safety, back of house staff and catering staff were required to test every 24 hours. IDEX, NAVDEX took place safely and successfully, attracting 726 media representatives from 64 countries generating extensive global media coverage. The UAE armed forces signed USD 5.7 billion worth of deals with local and international companies at IDEX and NAVDEX 2021. Five deals with international companies and 15 with local companies were inked on the final day of the exhibitions, at a value of USD 246.2 million. Furthermore, the event rated highly in visitor and exhibitor feedback.


30

ADNEC GROUP

CASE STUDY HITB+ Cyberweek November 2021

Organised by Hack in the Box (HITB), a Malaysia based cyber security platform and event organiser, and supported by Disrupt AD, an Abu Dhabi Government initiative that supports tech start-ups, Cyberweek took over ADNEC’s ICC Hall from 24 and 25 November 2021 HITB organises must-attend training, conferences and technical talks on computer security around the world. ‘HITB+CyberWeek’ combines the HITB Security Conference with an exhibition, training opportunities as well as games, challenges, competitions and fascinating speakers. The hybrid, second edition of Hack in the Box, Abu Dhabi re-located to Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre as the event outgrew its original hotel venue.

Organised around 4 main pillars – Hacking, Making, Building and Breaking, HITB+ CyberWeek 2021 hosted a curated selection of invited speakers and subject matter experts. Speakers include experts on cybersecurity and technology from around the world such as Matt Johnson, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) at Ledger, and Chema Alonso, Hacker, Cybersecurity Expert, and Chief Digital Officer at Spanish Telecoms giant ,Telefónica. The pre-event training element was comfortably accommodated in ten of the venues Capital Suites meeting spaces. The hybrid, main event, streamed on HITB’s own platform utilised the multifunctional ICC space which was divided into three areas and comprised a main stage, four streams, presentation zone, a TV studio at the heart of the action


31

Darryl Yeoh Hack in the Box Event Producer

The event has definitely changed in a blank canvas venue and allowed for more freedom in designing the event layout. We changed our format, we usually have two tracks but for this event we tried out four tracks featuring ‘silent stages’ as we had the space and this worked very well when it came to the hybrid part of our event.

Full production of the event was provided by ADNEC Group’s inhouse event services arm, ADNEC Services. for the hybrid component and an exhibition and competition area. The event attracted c.1000 competitors and spectators with the competition element bringing together teams from around the world compete to literally hack into and expose security weaknesses in a number of smart technologies including an ATM and a car. ADNEC’s in-house travel company, Capital Travel worked with the organiser providing visa application services, airport transfer services and provided a total of 775 room nights over the event – 289 of which were at the ADNEC owned interconnected, 5-star Andaz hotel

The five-day event attracted over two thousand attendees and ten start-ups from around the world, culminating in a high-octane final day where the conclusion of the Pro Capture the Flag (PRO CTF) competition, saw teams (16 in-person and another virtually) battling to win a prize of 116,000USD as well as bonus prizes for participating university teams. The contest was ultimately won by Bushwackers, a Russian team. ADNEC Services shone as creative agency and production partner working hand-in-hand with the organiser to create an impressive experiential and immersive environment for the event. Darryl continued “ADNEC Services were good to work with the rest at the Rotana hotels situated within walking distance from the venue. Full production of the event was provided by ADNEC Group’s inhouse event services arm, ADNEC Services. ADNEC services were engaged to conceptualise all production and build for capture the flag area, exhibition area, all stand builds, the TV studio as well as the four stages of streams in the ICC area around the themes, Hack, Make, Break, Build. This first international cyber security competition at ADNEC highlights the venue’s capability to be completely transformed into a dynamic and dramatic backdrop for a highstakes international competition set against the clock. Hack in the Box events are usually held at hotels.

with, we liked the fact that everything was in-house, it made things much simpler for us as event organisers. ADNEC Services were very hands-on which really helped, our main point of contact Ernesto put the entire event together and we really appreciate his help. We also appreciate Capital Experience and the agility they were able to provide, reducing the overall load on us from a flights and accommodation standpoint. The event has been a success and we have had a lot of good feedback about the hands-on exhibits. This is our first event since the start of the pandemic and it was refreshing. We can’t wait to do it again.”

Capital Travel worked with the organiser providing visa application services, airport transfer services and provided a total of 775 room nights over the event


32

ADNEC GROUP

V ENUES H

IGHLIGHTS

Expansion in ADNEC

ADNEC Group announced a significant investment into infrastructure and facilities at its venues in Abu Dhabi and London in order to reinforce ADNEC’s competitiveness and ability to attract and hold major international events. Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre will unveil the MEA region’s largest waterside exhibition hall in October 2022. The state-of-the-art, 10,000sqm Marina Hall will be connected to the venue via an internal walkway and will offer organisers an easily divisible space with adjacent parking.


The phase three plans at London ExCeL will deliver an additional 25,000sqm of premium event space, with 12,000sqm of exhibition space on the ground floor, seamlessly integrated into the existing venue. This will be complimented on the upper level with high end convention space, state-of-theart meeting rooms and catering facilities. In addition, a substantial

investment will be made in greenery along the dock edge, improved landscaping, and a new pocket park. ExCeL’s ambition is to create the most sustainable development possible and will therefore be targeting a Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) rating of ‘Excellent’ – surpassing the recognised industry standard.

Vaccination Centre (January – June 2021) ExCeL was approached to play a key role in supporting the Government by providing space for a mass vaccination centre which opened on the 11th January 2021. National and international media enquiries, including Sky News, Evening Standard, BBC, ITV, CNBC, Fuji TV, and TV Tokyo, resulted in the following coverage: Approx. 3,968 mentions of ExCeL and the vaccination centres in online media globally. 161 mentions of ExCeL and the vaccination centres on broadcast. The most significant media day was on opening day. This day achieved a potential reach of 1.8bn people and 1,100 mentions of ExCeL in online media around the world. Coverage to date has an AEV (Advertising Equivalence Value) of £125m.

Formula E (July 2021) The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship is the closest most progressive category of motorsport in the world. It brings electrifying racing to some of the world’s most iconic cities, attracting a global TV audience of 35 million people. In July 2021, Formula E returned to London, for the first time in 5-years, with ExCeL playing host to the world’s first-ever indoor/ outdoor race. The venue welcomed 24 drivers, from 12 different teams, representing some of the world’s leading automotive brands. Media coverage included: 441 mentions of ExCeL and Formula E in online media globally 84 mentions of ExCeL and Formula E on broadcast The most significant media day was Saturday 24th July - This day achieved a potential reach of 49.4 million people and over 100 mentions of ExCeL in online media around the world Coverage has an AEV (Advertising Equivalence Value) of £1.11m ExCeL’s Head of Live Events and Attractions, Damian Norman, conducted an interview with BBC London.

33


34

ADNEC GROUP

V ENUES H

IGHLIGHTS

The return of events (August – December 2021) After a closure of 72 weeks due to Covid-19, ExCeL enjoyed a strong reopening, with market confidence returning more quickly than anticipated. The venue hosted 90 events (60 exhibitions and 30 conferences) and welcomed over 800,000 visitors, between August and December. Exhibition highlights included World Travel Market, Brand Licensing Europe, International Confex, MCM Comic Con, the Virgin London Marathon Show and The Meetings Show. From a C&E perspective, ExCeL hosted the 18th European AIDS Conference, marking the first medical congress to be hosted in London since the pandemic. Attendance levels for the Global Offshore Wind Conference increased by 17% since 2019. During the final quarter of the year additional filming contracts were secured with major film studios, which saw revenue from that sector increase by 55% for 2021 compared to the previous year. During 2021, ExCeL confirmed 11 significant business wins, including The London International Horse Show, Shoptalk Europe and InfoSecurity.

DoubleTree Acquisition ExCeL added a second hotel to its portfolio with the acquisition of the Hilton DoubleTree.

Food & Beverage ExCeL and Levy UK & Ireland welcomed a new partnership with KERB Events to introduce an innovative, new food and drink offering to the venue. The ambition was to create an unrivalled experience both inside and outside event spaces. This approach will continue throughout 2022 enabling ExCeL to introduce further options for its guests.


35

Digital Transformation ExCeL has continued to invest in its digital transformation of the venue. In partnership with market leaders, Samsung, new, digital screens have been installed throughout half of the venue with phase 2 being completed in 2022 and 2023. Everything has been purposefully designed to provide a consistent customer journey and an enhanced guest experience. Key to this transformation is new external and internal digital signage at ExCeL’s west entrance. The new screens clearly signpost what’s on in the venue, creating an enhanced arrival experience and clearer directional signage. The infrastructure also provides dynamic, new advertising opportunities. Digital content, including video and QR codes, can be seamlessly blended with print advertising to create high impact opportunities, in high traffic areas, throughout the venue.

Mount Anvil Joint Venture In spite of COVID-19, off-plan sales of apartments have remained strong throughout 2021, with international purchasers accounting for more than 70% of sales Cores 1 and 2 are both fully sold out (182 homes in total); Core 3 is yet to be released; 159 homes (of 180) have been sold in Cores 4 and 5. The £52m Affordable housing contract (for 32% of the total homes) was signed with One Housing Group in August 2021. Following COVID lockdown restrictions in early 2021, excellent construction progress was made through the rest of the year. The revised target for overall completion of construction is now Q4 2025 with completion of sales by Q4 2026, approximately one year ahead of the original programme.

Corporate Social Purpose (CSP) ExCeL remains passionate about creating a meaningful and inspiring legacy. The venue is proud to be part of the world’s largest sustainability initiative, UN Global Compact and is certified to both ISO14001 and ISO20121. ISO20121 is the environmental standard for the events industry. ExCeL’s strategy focuses on four key areas: reducing waste, increasing energy efficiency, delivering more sustainable food choices, and supporting the local community.


36

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

IGHLIGHTS

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

IDEX and NAVDEX 2021

The 15th edition of the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX), the Naval Defence Exhibition (NAVDEX) and the International Defence Conference (IDC) 2021, were concluded by the Higher Organising Committee for the events. IDEX, NAVDEX and IDC took place over the course of six days and saw extensive local and international participation. The central success of the 15th edition was that it was the first global defence event to take place in the post pandemic recovery stage, with 62,445 attendees at the venue across five days. 900 exhibitors, 59 countries, and 35 international pavilions participated in IDEX and NAVDEX 2021, alongside five countries participating in the exhibitions for the first time: Israel, North Macedonia, Luxembourg, Portugal, and Azerbaijan. The events were meticulously planned in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and the General Command of the UAE Armed Forces and serviced by event services and catering subsidiaries ADNEC Services and Capital Hospitality. ADNEC and Capital Events were deeply committed to the 2021 editions of IDEX, NAVDEX being in-person events and feedback from partners and exhibitors showed that they were enthusiastic about coming together again and meeting in-person.

IDEX, NAVDEX and IDC took place safely and successfully, attracting 726 media representatives from 64 countries generating extensive global media coverage. The hybrid International Defence Conference held on 20th February featured 24 expert speakers, with only three of these participating virtually and drew over 2,400 delegates from 80 nations, with an in-person attendance of 500 delegates. The UAE Armed Forces signed USD 5.7 billion worth of deals with local and international companies at IDEX and NAVDEX 2021. Furthermore, the event rated highly in visitor and exhibitor feedback. In addition, IDEX and NAVDEX 2021 were described as one of the most successful global events organised in the post pandemic phase by participants, exhibitors, and visitors alike. During the first four days of the exhibitions, 98% of participants and visitors shared that they were satisfied with the preventative and precautionary measures implemented, while 99% of participants stated they felt safe inside ADNEC. These figures demonstrate the accomplishment of this year of IDEX and NAVDEX. Lessons and experience learnt here will support the wider resurgence of the business tourism sector, both at local and international levels.


37

2021 in numbers

900

155,000 sqm

59

IDEX exhibition space

Participating countries

Exhibitors

120+ International delegation

Visitors

35

16%

84%

National pavilions

Local companies

International companies

Today brings an end to an edition which was described as one of the most successful global events organised in the post pandemic phase by participants, exhibitors, and visitors alike. In organising these two exhibitions, we have met and exceeded the aspirations of all attending this edition.

62,445

‫متر مربع‬

The 2021 editions of IDEX and NAVDEX have recorded the largest deals in the history of the event since the launch 27 years ago

Deals' Value AED Billion

20.957

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri

Managing Director & Group CEO - ADNEC

Countries Exhibited at IDEX and NAVDEX Australia

Armenia

Austria

Bahrain

Belarus

Belgium

Bosnia

Brazil

Bulgaria

Canada

China

Croatia

Cyprus

Czech

Denmark

Egypt

Estonia

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hong Kong

India

Indonesia

Italy

Japan

Jordan

Kazakhstan

Korea

Latvia

Lebanon

Lybia

Malaysia

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Poland

Russia

Saudi

Serbia

Singapore

Slovakia

Slovenia

South Africa

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

Thailand

Netherlands

Turkey

Ukraine

UAE

United Kingdom

United States

Azerbaijan

Israel

Luxemburg

Republic of North Macedonia

Portugal


38

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

IGHLIGHTS

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

IDEX and NAVDEX 2021

Top 5 reasons for exhibiting at IDEX and NAVDEX 2021 • To seek new contacts for future business • To strengthen relationships with existing clients/ partners • To meet with UAE / GCC End – Users • To meet the official international delegations • Branding exercise, raise the profile of the organisation Visitors Overview • Over 62,000 attendees networked and discovered new products and opportunities at the exhibition over the 5 days

• Top 10 visiting countries: UAE, Russia, US, France, India, Ukraine, KSA, ITALY, Pakistan, and Germany

• 97% of visitors were satisfied with their visit to IDEX and NAVDEX • 93% of visitors agrees that IDEX and NAVDEX are important to their business • 99% of visitors are likely to visit IDEX and NAVDEX 2023

About The International Defence Conference (IDC) The Prosperity and Development of Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology and the Protection in the Era of the 4IR. Government, Industries and academia should work close together to bring about solutions to the challenges facing mankind. The conference is designed to bring thought leaders, policy makers, influencers, researchers and futurists under one roof live in Abu Dhabi to debate and share ideas related to technological advancement and disruptive technologies. This conference marks the second time that two of the region’s signature and most well-attended events, the Abu Dhabi International Offset Conference (ADIOC) and the IDEX Conference, will be combined into a single “must attend” event for Defence, security, academic communities and companies operating in the region and internationally in Abu Dhabi live and in-person.


39

Conference Topics • • • •

Exploring innovative opportunities in supply-chain ecosystem management beyond Covid-19 Pandemic Protecting AI and other 4iR technologies in the age of collaboration and diffusion Strengthening the Defence industries R&D in an increasingly complex dynamic context A holistic view on Cyber Security Resiliency during the era of Digital Transformation

Testimonial

Jay Hutson

Fahad Al Absi

Chairman of the Board of Directors of AmCham Abu Dhabi

CEO of Al Jasoor

“This is my fourth IDEX, unique in many ways but successful nonetheless. We found that our early engagement with the ADNEC team and leadership helped us have the confidence to know that steps were in place to maintain the safety of all participants. What a great plan in execution – what stood out to me was the attention to detail, we had access to all the right leadership from countries, military and other business leaders equal to or greater than the other shows, It has been an outstanding show.”

IDEX is definitely pinnacle for a business like the heavy vehicles industry and showcasing our products to or clients and being able to demonstrate the products gives us much better opportunities to connect with our clients and generate business

Marketing and Advertising • • • • • • •

AED 647M total PR value of IDEX & NAVDEX 209% Total AVE value growth compared to 2019 edition 48 TV advertisement spots on Abu Dhabi TV and Sky News 611 Promotional radio adverts were aired in the UAE 30,005,341 impressions of online advertisements 81,980 Total digital campaign clicks 41 email campaigns to more than 200,000 contacts


40

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

IGHLIGHTS

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

SIAL 2021

Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Presidential Affairs, Chairman of Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA), HE Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and

Coexistence, inaugurated the 11th edition of SIAL Middle East 2021 exhibition that took place on 7-9 December. The event witnessed the participation of about 450 exhibitors from 24 countries and 12 international pavilions, and drew 16,000 visitors to the venue. Considered one of the largest specialised events in the food, beverage and hospitality sector in the region, SIAL Middle East was launched alongside the Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition, the

only event specialised in dates in the world. SIAL ME witnessed a wealth of features and activities such as World Gourmet Show which included the participation of three Michelin star chefs; Chef Angelos Lantos, Chef Faycal Bettioui and Chef Gal Ben Moshe, in addition to Chef Mohamed Hamdan along with SIAL Innovation, The National Brewers Cup Championship and World Latte Art Grading.


41

SIAL Middle East 2021 in numbers

850 Exhibitors (including co-exhibitors and brands) 17,103 sqm gross exhibition space 24 countries and pavilions 70 International and Local Hosted Buyers AED 2.5 billion total value of business deals signed during the exhibition 3,000+ introductions and meetings between exhibitors and hosted buyers 16,000 Attendees over the three days of the exhibition Exhibitors Overview

90% of exhibitors were satisfied with their participation 85% of exhibitors might or will exhibit at SIAL ME 2022 85% of exhibitors agree that SIAL ME is important for their business in the region Top six reasons for exhibiting at SIAL ME and ADDPE: § § § § § §

Develop business in the Middle East region Meet decision makers in the food, beverage and hospitality sector Position company towards the competitors Promote company’s awareness and brand image Launch new products or new range of products Develop sales network


42

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

IGHLIGHTS

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

World Gourmet Show

Visitors Overview:

SIAL Innovation

§ Over 16,000 visitors networked and discovered

The event witnessed the announcement of the winners of the SIAL Innovation contest which saw visitors viewing the most innovative food and beverage products from a large number of submissions at the SIAL Innovation area. The Gold Winner went to Agthia for their ‘First Plant Bottle in the region’ from United Arab Emirates.

new products and opportunities.

§ 94% of visitors were satisfied with SIAL ME 2021 § 90% of visitors agrees that SIAL ME is important to their business

§ 82% of visitors are likely to attend SIAL ME 2022

World Gourmet Show

Michelin star chefs and the best chefs delivered cooking masterclasses across a range of current themes, competitors went head-to-head to win prizes and the World Champion acrobatic pizza performer showed us his skills live on each day of the show!

Hosted Buyers Programme The Hosted Buyers Programme allowed a private dedicated space for hosted buyers to discuss. Business meetings with a selected batch of exhibitors that matched their sourcing requirements in structured ‘Speed Networking Sessions’ along with giving a place for exhibitors to meet and discuss their requirements.

Silver Award went to Lestello Sp. Z.O.O for their ‘Chickpea cakes coated with Chocolate’ from Poland. Bronze Award went to Dates Juice Corporate for their ‘100% Sugar date’ from France.

The National Brewers Cup Championship The National Brewers Cup Championship highlighted the craft of filter coffee brewing by hand, promoting manual coffee brewing and service excellence. In this Championship, competitors prepared and served three individual beverages to a panel of judges.


43

SIAL Middle East 2021 in numbers

Winners for the National Brewers CupChampionship 1st Place Philip David Disuanco of Archers Coffee 2nd Place Ibrahim H. Al Mallouhi 3rd Place Elton Echavez Gono of Typica Cafe

World Latte Art Grading Battle Baristas from all the Emirates and GCC competed for industry acclaim, prizes, and a chance to represent the UAE at the World Latte Art Grading Battle at Host Milan, Italy on October 2023 with return flights and accommodation provided by the LAGS GCC Chapter

Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition The 6th Abu Dhabi Date Palm Exhibition (ADDPE) ran alongside SIAL ME again this year and provided the biggest international platform for exhibitors to showcase their products and boost their presence in the global market. Supported by Ministry of Presidential Affairs (MOPA) and the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation (KIDPA), ADDPE served as a dedicated platform for date trading, which is a key element of this year’s SIAL ME, the exclusive regional food, beverage and hospitality trade event and ideal platform to offer valuable investment opportunities for food, beverage and hospitality companies.

Marketing and Advertising: § AED 26,892,686 total PR coverage value § 40 Media outlets covered the show § 31 Social Media influencers


44

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

IGHLIGHTS

Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 2021 (ADIBS) the waterfront of the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre (ADNEC) for four days from 13 – 16 October.

The Abu Dhabi International Boat Show (ADIBS) 2021, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Charitable & Humanitarian Foundation and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, was a successful event held at

The show featured an incredible range of marine activities, including boat chartering and affordable boating for the first time in the event’s history. The outdoor event also proved to be the perfect central hub to discover the latest accessible and affordable ways to get into boating, water sports and fishing whilst enjoying the attractions, including several family

friendly activities with lots of entertainment for children. The event, organised by Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) in strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Maritime, managed to attract 353 exhibitors and brands from 28 countries. This increased by 24% compared to the previous edition, which affirms the event’s position as the first boating, fishing, and marine sports event to be held in the UAE during the period of recovery from the current circumstances affecting the world.


45

Exhibitors and Brands from the following countries

Australia

Austria

Bahrain

Canada

China

Czech

Egypt

Finland

France

Germany

Hawaii

Holland

Italy

Japan

Korea

Malaysia

Poland

Russia

Singapore

South Africa

Spain

Sweden

Thailand

Turkey

UAE

UK

Ukraine

USA

43%

42,000m2

Key Facts

8,000+ Visitors

Local Exhibitors

Exhibition Area

28

Represented Countries

353+

Exhibitors and Brands

Exhibitors Overview

88%

of exhibitors had positive return on investment

§ 98% of exhibitors might or will exhibit at ADIBS 2022 § 96% of exhibitors believe that ADIBS is important for their business § 90% of exhibitors were satisfied with their participation at ADIBS

Visitors Overview: § Over 8,000 visitors at the show over four days § 91% of visitors were satisfied with their visit to ADIBS § 93% of visitors are likely to visit ADIBS 2022 Visitors describe the Show as:

Innovative

Fun

Entertaining

Luxury


46

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

IGHLIGHTS

Abu Dhabi International Boat Show 2021 (ADIBS)

Show Attractions: Live Cooking Demos Live cooking demonstrations were performed by Chef Manish Law, Executive chef from the Intercontinental Hotel.

Desert Shield Arena Visitors participated in the Desert Shield Arena, a oneof-a-kind obstacle course for all ages.

IGFA Passport to Fishing The IGFA Passport to Fishing program took place at ADIBS where visitors learned about the basics of recreational fishing, game fish conservation, and how to be an ethical angler.


47

Water activities Visitors enjoyed on-water activities throughout the show.

Fish Food Golf Challenge Participants practiced their golf swing while feeding the fish at this year’s edition of ADIBS. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club were on-hand to coach and develop participants’ golf skills as they drive a golf ball made from fish as far as they can into the water.

UAE Flyboarding Championship The UAE Flyboarding Championship organised by Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club took place in ADIBS where competitors were showing off their skills and tricks on the water.


48

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

IGHLIGHTS

Acquisition of ISNR & establishment of the Global Media Congress New Shows ADNEC acquired the leading security conference, the International Exhibition for National Security and Resilience (ISNR), and added it to its events portfolio. Launched in 2008, the event covers the security equipment sector, including device manufacturing and security technology development and attracts an international audience of government and private sector exhibitors and attendees to accelerate publicprivate collaboration for a safer connected world. ADNEC’s event organising arm, Capital Events announced the launch of the Global Media Congress in partnership with the Emirates News Agency (WAM) which is set to take place in November 2022. Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy

Hotels key highlights ADNEC Group’s hotel portfolio expanded to a total of six with the addition of three new hotels. The acquisition of Double Tree by Hilton London ExCeL, which added 287 rooms within easy walking distance, adding to the convenient campus environment that appeals to event organisers. The addition of the leisure resort hotels, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi Resort and Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara diversified the Group’s hotel portfolio, adding value to both the Group’s tourism business as well as an additional offering to appeal to the international business traveller attending events in Abu Dhabi.

Prime Minister and Minister of Presidential Affairs for the UAE, the first of its kind event in Abu Dhabi will be attended by media leaders and global influencers. The Congress will cover several topics, most notably digital communication, artificial intelligence, advanced technologies and innovation in the media sector. It will host specialist sessions covering journalism, radio, television, internet, social media and international influencers. Sheikh Mansour said the Congress will be “an exceptional platform” for the media sector.


49

Services key highlights

Key Achievements § A robust commercial approach ensured an overachievement of financial targets § Continued partnership with SEHA in 17 major projects across the UAE, providing critical support to the ongoing response to COVID § Won a major industry award § Delivered one of the largest pavilions within IDEX § Launched a new office in Dubai, expanding reach and customer base ADNEC Services has a continued its upwards trajectory and supported some of the region’s prominent events, along with having been a key player in delivering critical support for Abu Dhabi and the UAE response to the COVID-19 pandemic in collaboration with SEHA. As part of the collaboration, ADNEC Services focused on supporting government relief efforts for

the pandemic. In addition, ADNEC Services worked on 17 major key projects with SEHA, including introducing its drive-through structure container concept in 9 locations, including Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Western region, Al Manhal, Rabdan, Liwa, Al Mirffa, Madinat Zayed and Abu Dhabi Ports. ADNEC Services delivered the 15th edition of IDEX and NAVDEX, the first significant event in the UAE since the pandemic. As the official contractor, ADNEC Services met all challenges to deliver the events on time and safely given new protocols and measures related to COVID-19. Adding to this scope, ADNEC Services delivered 17 stands during these events, including the KSA pavilion, showcasing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s defence companies.

ADNEC Services won the ‘Best Association/Corporate Meeting’ category at the Middle East Event Awards for their work and management of the World Urban Forum. The company ventured into vertical markets, fit-out and consultancy, expanding the offerings working across three new major projects SHED, Abu Dhabi Ports and Zones Corp, providing interior design and consulting for engineering services, and detailed design works alongside the refurbishment in the HQ of AD Ports. ADNEC Services hosted multiple hybrid events, including International Defence Conference and Cyber week, providing technical solutions and broadcasting the event to a global audience; another considerable success adding to the list of achievements for 2021. ADNEC Services also managed some major design and build projects for our exhibition build clients, building over 40 stands in some of the prominent exhibitions in the UAE, including ADIPEC and Dubai Air Show.


50

ADNEC GROUP

B USINESS H

IGHLIGHTS

Services key highlights

portfolio of events, including IDEX, SIAL and Boat Show, alongside producing campaigns for clients such as the Block Chain Festival.

ADNEC Services design was awarded the contract to launch a new brand and logo such as ATLP (Advanced Trade and Logistic Platform) by Maqta Gateway, developing a new brand and redesigning the website whilst streamlining the user experience. ADNEC Services also designed and delivered the ‘digital unveiling’ of the brand at an exclusive VVIP launch of the platform. The team supported the ADNEC’s new business lines by conceptualising and designing five new brands for ADNEC Group, Tourism 365, Capital Tourism Capital Travel and Capital Holidays. The logos were designed to align with the business strategy, and all brand guidelines were delivered in record time. In addition, ADNEC Services also developed the concepts brand for the Global Media Congress to assist the Group Marketing Division. In a challenging year for venue branding, the Media Department have overachieved on budget, delivering media buying for all the Group’s

ADNEC Services was incredibly proud to launch the new Dubai Office, launched to aggressively expand the business, respond to client demand and reach new markets. A new, highly experienced team was established. Six key projects were delivered within the Q4 period, Abu Dhabi Ports during Big 5 and Arab Plast, Green Power at Dubai Airshow, Emaratech at Career Fair, KPMG at Atlantis, State Audit Conference and an RTA kiosk. Operationally the team managed and provided 24hr support across all of the significant projects. Through 2021 there was an ongoing focus on cost management due to the increased demand and cost of raw materials; ADNEC Services optimised designs and materials reused where possible to manage this. There was also strong emphasis on business continuity and business risk, which was managed effectively through a partnership with stakeholders to ensure the supply of the services required by clients.


51

Services key highlights

Acquisition of Etihad Catering: Adding to its success in launching the high-volume catering brand Capital Kitchen in 2020, Capital Hospitality is further diversifying by operating the ADNEC acquired, Etihad Airline Catering Services. In addition to this, Capital Hospitality renewed several key contracts including: § Abu Dhabi Police for Abu Dhabi & Al Ain § Al Razeen Prison Furthermore, in recognition of their high standards of service and hospitality, they were awarded the following new business, while continuing to leverage existing corporate hospitality partnerships such as: § § § §

Formula 1 FIFA CWC 2021 contract for retail HSBC Golf Tournament contract for retail Abu Dhabi Civil Defence

Tourism

ADNEC Group launched Tourism 365 in Summer 2021 in order to serve its expanded remit to increase tourism to Abu Dhabi overall.

Tourism 365 rapidly launched Capital Experience, its destination management company (DMC) to offer seamless service to organisers of international events at Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre. The addition of the DMC was the last cog in providing a complete end-to-end event solution for international event organisers.

“We also appreciate Capital Experience and the agility they were able to provide, reducing the overall load on us from a flights and accommodation standpoint.” Daryy Yeoh, Event Producer, Hack in the Box 1. In addition to providing services for event organisers, Capital Experience was appointed to manage ground handling for MSC Cruises, TUI Cruises and A World events for Abu Dhabi bound tourists from Reunion Island. 2. Tourism 365 also founded Capital Travel, an out-bound travel agency serving the local market, the ADNEC acquired Etihad Holidays will be operated by this subsidiary.


52

ADNEC GROUP

S TRATEGY, INNOVATION & E XCELLENCE

Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), is part of ADQ, one of the region’s largest holding companies with a diverse portfolio of major enterprises spanning key sectors of Abu Dhabi’s non-oil economy. ADNEC Group has diverse business lines including events, hospitality, tourism, hotels, and venue related services. Through its activities across these business lines, ADNEC delivers world class events, attract and manage the experience of inbound tourists, maximize the financial return of its hotels portfolio and deliver wide range of catering services across events, aviation, health and security sectors. The company contributes to the economic development and prosperity of Abu Dhabi and UAE. ADNEC supports the Emirates’ long-term policies and goals of economic growth and diversification. ADNEC Group owns and operates the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the largest exhibition venue in the MENA region. In addition, ADNEC also includes ExCeL London, Al Ain Convention Centre, Aloft London ExCeL, DoubleTree Hilton ExCeL London, Aloft Abu Dhabi, Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi Resort, and Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, “ADNEC Services LLC”, Capital Hospitality, “Tourism 365” and Capital Events LLC. ADNEC Group is developing its network of companies, enhancing business tourism in Abu Dhabi by creating a platform that enables event organisers to connect with people in world-class events and venues. ADNEC delivers best-in class services which exceed stakeholder expectations.

Our Vision A synergetic world class group of leading business entities that are committed to maximize the economic and social value where we operate.

Our Mission To maximize the social and economic benefits to Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector through synergistically managing a group of business entities to provide and maintain world-class facilities and services that exceed shareholder and stakeholders’ expectations.

Our Values Our values shape the culture of our group and guide us in everything we do.They steer our behaviours and inspire work accountability.

WORK TOGETHER

CREATIVE & INNOVATIVE

STRIVE FOR EXCELLENCE

PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO


53

How we align to Abu Dhabi plan: Group

GOAL

25 GOALS

6 PROGRAMS

A secure & confident society that aims to develop a competitive, sustainable & globally open economy

DCT ROLE

VISION

83 PROGRAMS 34 KPIs

ABU DHABI AS AN ORIGINAL AND ATTRACTIVE TOURISM DESTINATION 1

Promoting and developing the touristic areas

2

Developing the cultural tourism

3

Improving the tourist experience in shopping centres

4

DEVELOPING BUSINESS TOURISM

5

Developing events and major festivals

6

Promoting tourism marketing in the emirate of Abu Dhabi

ADNEC GROUP CONTRIBUTION

GROUP MISSION To maximise the social and economic benefits to Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector through synergistically managing a group of business entities to provide and maintain world-class facilities and services that exceed shareholder and stakeholders’ expectations

ADNEC Group strategic focus Perspective

GROUP STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES Grow revenue

Financial

Generate free cash flow Deliver returns on capital Deliver profitability Create sustainable long term economic impact

Non-financial

Lead the market Attract and retain talent

Projects & initiatives

Develop assets


ADNEC GROUP

S TRATEGY, INNOVATION & E XCELLENCE

Stakeholder engagement

ERS

ER

STR

IC

RS

l AD Ports

NE

OP

EG

RT

Agilityl

l Abu Dhabi Police

l EAG

SEHAl

l ADQ (shreholder)

NCEMAl Hotels Operatorsl

l General Headquarter

l Department of Culture and Tourism

Employeesl l Local Community Associations and NGOs

l Organisers l Visitors l Delegates

l Local Community

SOCI

l Exhibitors l Vendors

ET Y

l Service Providers

l Tourists & Hotel Guests

l Conference Associations l Professional Conference Organisers PCOs

l Contractors l Subcontractors l Consultants

SUP

l Office Tenant l Catering Clients

l MISC Clients

PLIE

RS ADNEC's Stakeholders Wheel

Proximity to centre of wheel indicates intensity of required engagement

RS

ES

AT

ME

TI

ON

AL

TN PA R

PA

A

Stakeholders are defined as all those who are, directly or indirectly, associated, or are affected by our activities. ADNEC classifies its stakeholders as per the classification of the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) as it is described below in ADNEC’s stakeholders wheel.

E M P LO Y E

54

S CU

TO


55

Our future foresight strategy model ADNEC enhanced strategy management model capitalises on the synergy between the three frameworks (strategy, future foresight and innovation), and the result is a 6 step model that drives ADNEC’s strategy and business goals.

ADNEC future foresight concepts

1

Strategic Visioning

6

Monitor and Adapt

5

Strategic and Operational Alignment

FUTURE FORESIGHT STRATEGY MODEL

4

Future Concepts & Innovative Solutions

2

Horizon Scanning & Landscape Analysis

3

Scenarios and Objectives

Alignment Innovation Management Process


56

ADNEC GROUP

S TRATEGY, INNOVATION & E XCELLENCE

ADNEC future foresight concepts

A set of concepts represent our 10 year transformation roadmap. Championed internally for further analysis and execution planning

Creative meeting and working spaces

Venues can no longer simply offer spaces, they need to have the flexibility to offer what clients want. Trends indicate the need for venues to accommodate to events rather than events be restricted to the venues’ limitations. Spaces need to prove memorable and serve practical functions, not merely for show but to resonate with attendees and enhance the visitor experience.

Environmentally Sustainable ADNEC

Smart Mobility for ADNEC

Intelligent ADNEC

Smart mobility can revolve around simple, currently commercial, applications or futuristic and complex solutions. The main purpose of solutions here are to alleviate the pressures of traffic flow congestion and increase venue appeal by utilising technologies in an optimal manner.

IoT and connected buildings have shown to reduce operational costs and optimize infrastructure utilizations. Smart buildings demonstrating cost savings already exist and are likely to become standard industry practice in a short span of time.

Successful organisations today need to demonstrate their philosophy of implementing holistic solutions into their operations, reflecting their responsibility towards the environment. It’s not only a matter of good public relations but a conscious and active effort in supporting the UN SDGs.

ADNEC 365 A venue the size of ADNEC needs to ensure it is generating revenue year-round. If not utilised it will simply accrue costs. Innovative and attractive offerings beneficial to the economy and community can prove to be a win-win for all stakeholders.


57

Defining solutions for each concept For each future foresight concept, we identified business solutions to further align our service offering and value proposition to future trends. The steps we followed to identify the solutions are:

8. What is the contribution and do-ability?

1.What is it?

2. For whom?

7. What will we need?

3. For what?

4. What are the pros and cons?

6. How can we do it?

5. Who can help?

How we operate

Board of Directors

Abu Dhabi Government

Department of Culture and Tourism, Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities, Abu Dhabi Police, Abu Dhabi Media Company, SEHA, NCEMA, General Headquarter and Central Intelligence Department.

Logistics

Department of Transport, Abu Dhabi Airports Company, Transport Providers and ETIHAD aviation Group.

Event Patrons

Support

Commercial

Event Cycle (Staging Phase)

Supplier

Event at ADNEC

Customer 1

Customer 2

Customer 3

Organiser

Exhibitor

Visitor

Association / PCO

Association / PCO

Delegate

Organiser

Supplier

Buyer Enablers Employees

Service Partners

Hotel Operators

Local Community


58

ADNEC GROUP

S TRATEGY, INNOVATION & E XCELLENCE

Innovation

In line with the UAE National Policy and the Abu Dhabi 2030 plan, ADNEC has invested in developing internal innovation capabilities such as innovation management process, infrastructure, people and adoption of international accreditation and certification programs.

Innovation Vision and Mission VISION To become the most innovative group of world class venues and services in the MENA Region

MISSION To create a culture of innovation and creativity with the philosophy of happy minds within ADNEC through promoting awareness among ADNEC employees and equipping them with tools and best practices enabling ADNEC to become an innovative group of world class venue and services

ADNEC Innovation Pledge The pledge reflects ADNEC’s commitment towards instilling innovation as a culture. The pledge has two types: a corporate and an individual one at Chief level.

Key characteristics of ADNEC innovation pledge: · · · ·

A demonstration to the commitment of ADNEC leadership towards innovation A documented and written commitment Quantifiable and can be measured Leaders to act as an example to all other managerial levels

ADNEC Innovation Pledge ‫ميثاق أدنيك لإلبتكار‬ Working together to create an environment where ideas are nurtured and innovation can flourish ‫العمل سويا لبناء بيئة حاضنة لألفكار حيث يزدهر اإلبتكار‬


59

Innovation approach Our philosophy in creating an innovative culture is driven by two main approaches:

1. Bottom up ideation process: OurIdea It is the employee idea management platform, an automated system that allows employees and teams to submit their innovative ideas. Following a sequence of steps, the platform provides a structured process for idea submission, review and approval. The employee chooses the idea and the topic he is interested in, without any limitation. To steer the ideation towards the most important issues from ADNEC corporate perspective, the selection criteria and filtration process of ideas include a set of questions that aim to directly link towards business challenges and/or opportunities.

2. Top down ideation process: Tanfeeth program In co-operation with subject matter experts, ADNEC launches annually its internal innovation accelerator, Tanfeeth program. Employees from across all business units are selected to participate in teams, experiencing an end-to-end innovation journey. This includes several stages such as ideation, brainstorming, prototyping, testing and pitching. Unlike the case of OurIdea platform, ideas are steered toward business challenges and/or opportunities. At the beginning of the program, ADNEC’s innovation team is responsible to set a challenge that is approved by ADNEC leadership and directly linked to one of ADNEC’s corporate areas of interest and/or strategic focus. This ensures ideation and innovation outputs are contributing to business needs and/or requirements.

ADNEC Innovation Assets Innovation Lab

The Hive


60

ADNEC GROUP

S TRATEGY, INNOVATION & E XCELLENCE

ADNEC Innovation Story

International attestation In 2017, ADNEC became the first company within MICE sector in MENA region to build Innovation Lab and first to be awarded international attestation for Innovation Management (CEN/TS 165551:2013). We are also proud to have successfully passed this Innovation Managements audit annually since 2017 which reflects our commitment towards maintaining a robust innovation management framework and ensure practicing an enabling innovative culture.


61

Excellence Our first success was when we won the gold category as part of our SKEA participation in 2011. In 2017, we participated in the fifth cycle of Abu Dhabi Excellence in Government Performance cycle. ADNEC was ranked third according to the overall score (out of 52 participants) and won three awards: Customer Happiness, Business Continuity and Risk Management and Corporate Communications. A remarkable achievement for the company. The purpose of participating in such excellence platforms and programs was to create a culture of excellence and adopt international best practices. The foundation that we built in 2015-2017 paid off in the form of process optimisation, customer-oriented services, agile organisation and very happy place to work at. Since we became part of ADQ; we have shown proven commercial performance due to the adoption of business integration principles, proper asset management, fantastic relationship with stakeholder and robust business planning process. All these concepts and principles were the result of years of adopting excellence models.

Best International Venue in 2020 by the Exhibition News Awards



ADNEC GROUP

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG)

2021

ESG REPORT


02

ESG REPORT

ADNEC Group Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC), is part of ADQ, one of the region’s largest holding companies with a diverse portfolio of major enterprises spanning key sectors of Abu Dhabi’s non-oil economy. ADNEC is a leader in managing and developing international strategic centres and was founded with a vision to become the leading destination for popular, high-profile international conferences, exhibitions and congresses in the Middle East and North Africa. It owns and operates the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, the largest exhibition venue in the MENA region. In addition, ADNEC also includes ExCeL London, Al Ain Convention Centre, Aloft London ExCeL, DoubleTree Hilton ExCeL London, Aloft Abu Dhabi, Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi, Anantara Sir Bani Yas Island Abu Dhabi Resort, and Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, ADNEC Services LLC, Capital Hospitality, Tourism 365 and Capital Events LLC. ADNEC Group is developing its network of companies, enhancing business tourism in Abu Dhabi by creating a platform that enables event organisers to connect with people in world-class events and venues. ADNEC delivers best-in class services which exceed stakeholder expectations.

Group Vision A synergetic world class group of leading business entities that are committed to maximise the economic and social value where we operate

Group Mission To maximise the social and economic benefits to Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector through synergistically managing a group of business entities to provide and maintain world-class facilities and services that exceed shareholder and stakeholders’ expectations


03

ADNEC GROUP VENUES

EXHIBITIONS

HOTELS

SERVICES

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

TOURISM


04

ESG REPORT

ADNEC ESG Report About this report We present to you Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company’s (ADNEC Group) Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) annual report. This first-time issuance comes after 6 years of issuing the company’s GRI report (a sustainability reporting based on the principles and guidelines of global reporting initiative GRI). The report covers the financial and operational years 2018-2021, providing an overview of ADNEC’s ESG related performance. It follows ADQ’s ESG information gathering template and their general guidelines which have been developed in accordance with international and national standards, i.e., the GRI Standards for reporting as well as the Abu Dhabi Stock Exchange (ADX) ESG Disclosure Guidance, and Abu Dhabi Government priorities.


05

Why ESG ESG framework helps ADNEC to understand the risks and opportunities across its business lines, current performance, and targets to meet the company’s goals of strong financial performance while aligning with the Abu Dhabi Government priorities. The ESG framework defines a common and relevant reporting metric and balance ESG priority against the financial objectives of ADNEC Group. ESG is not only doing the right thing; it is doing the right thing in a profitable way. It has been proven that organisations performing on ESG principles have higher financial growth and optimisation, top-line growth, cost reductions, more stability, higher productivity from staff, reduced regulatory and legal risk and interventions (fines and sanctions).


06

ESG REPORT

Scope This report primarily focuses on the material sustainability issues concerning Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company - ADNEC Group’s core business in UAE. As the Group’s mandate has been evolving during the last years by expanding in leisure tourism through the newly established Tourism 365 and recent acquisition of aviation catering service; it was not possible to provide information that addresses these new business lines. There may however be some ad-hoc examples used where relevant. Additionally, this report does not address other exhibition, conference or hotel activities through other companies within ADNEC Group (ExCeL London and Group owned hotels).

Link to SDGs Our sustainability framework is linked to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as the company’s activities and main services are directly impacting social and economic aspects. Our calculated GVA (Gross Value Add) summarises the economic and social impact we generate. Throughout our activities (events, hospitality, travel and others) we directly link to Goal #8 (Decent work and economic growth), Goal #3 (Good Health and Well Being) and Goal #7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) respectively.


07

Net Zero Carbon Events In year 2021, ADNEC announced its participation in the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative, a global initiative which aims to bring together a wide range of industry stakeholders to jointly tackle climate change and drive towards net zero by 2050. Participants from within our industry signed a pledge committing to support the goal of net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, in line with global efforts set out by the Paris Agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C and reduce total global GHG emissions by 50% by 2030, and to advocate for industry efforts throughout the value chain to achieve the same. In pursuit of this aim, before end of 2023, ADNEC undertakes to publish its roadmap to achieve this goal. The Pledge was officially launched and announced in November 2021, as part of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).

t

e

N ro

e

Z

r a C

n o b

Before end of 2023, ADNEC undertakes to publish its roadmap to achieve this goal

Continuous improvement ADNEC recognises limitations in the report (limitations we intend to handle in future publications), such as presentation of more quantitative data and objectives, as well as external assurance of the report’s principles and content.


08

ESG REPORT

Executive Summary Environmental Measure / KPI

Water Management

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

233,028

212,487

180,378

233,200

Not applicable

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

20,178,823

22,034,091

19,228,746

19,183,221

Not applicable

CO2 emissions due to electricity in tons

10.4

11.3

9.9

9.8

Not applicable

CO2 emissions due to Recycling in tons

160.0

156.9

126.1

87.0

Not applicable

Total CO2 tons

170.4

168.2

136.0

96.8

Not applicable

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

1,510

1,769

443

680

Not applicable

Recycled material (tons)

777

749

172

344

Not applicable

Recycled material (%)

51%

42%

39%

51%

Non-recycled materials (tons)

733

1,020

271

336

Non-recycled materials (%)

49%

58%

61%

49%

Water consumption in cubic meters

Energy consumption Electricity consumption in KWH

Waste management Waste generated (recyclable and nonrecyclable) tons

Total Hazardous Waste

Not applicable. As per ADNEC relevant policies and procedures, we don’t allow hazardous material to our premises and venues.

Social

Measure / KPI Customers

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

94%

95%

98%

93%

96%

79

79

85

72

83

Number of customer complaints* filed (#)

5

3

0

0

0

Number of customer complaints resolved (#)

5

3

0

0

0

Customer satisfaction score (%) Net Promoter Score (NPS)

*Complaints: identified as (Genuine, Severity: mid+), referring to customers suggestions and complaints approach matrix.


09

Social

Measure / KPI Suppliers

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Total procurement spending (million AED)

112

137

59

178

Not applicable

Procurement spending on local suppliers (million AED)

111

135

58

171

Total number of local suppliers engaged (#)

n/a

n/a

n/a

420*

Percentage of suppliers have formally certified their compliance with the Conflict of Interest for Local Regular Suppliers (CoI)

Not applicable Not applicable

* As of December 2021. This is a cumulative number; the individual numbers cannot be extracted from AX due to frequent updating done on Vendor data as per requirements.

Human Capital

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

H&S: Total employee manhours (#)

749,232

779,328

727,584

969,285

980,000

H&S: Total contractor manhours (#)

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Employee fatalities (#)

0

0

0

0

0

Contractor fatalities (#)

0

0

0

0

0

Employee total recordable injuries (#)

6

8

10

4

0

Contractor total recordable injuries (#)

28

36

47

27

0

Employee lost-time injuries (#)

0

2

4

4

0

Employee lost-time injuries (#)

0

2

4

4

0

Contractor lost-time injuries (#)

5

20

12

0

0

13%

17%

13%

4%

Not applicable

Absenteeism rate*

* *Absenteeism rate = (total number of missed workdays (for full time employees) (total workdays (for full time employees))

* Missed workdays includes following leaves: • Sick Leave

• Uncertified Sick Leave

• Injury Sick Leave

• Escort Leave

• Local Emergency Leave

• Suspension Leave

• Unauthorised Leave

• Unpaid Leave

• Iddah

• Hajj Leave

• Sports Leave

H&S: No. of product recalls (#)

Not applicable to ADNEC Group sector (s)

H&S: No. of product incidents (#)

Not applicable to ADNEC Group sector (s)


010

ESG REPORT

Social

Measure / KPI continued… Human Capital

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Training hours (male)

5,250

3,627

2,670

2,905

Not available

Training hours (female)

ADNEC Group – ADNEC, ADNEC Services 3,355

3,172

2,911

3,831

Not available

Training hours per employee

42

39

25

27

Not available

Training hours per employee (male)

35

31

15

20

Not available

Training hours per employee (female)

55

52

41

36

Not available

Training hours (male)

Not applicable

1512

1728

1800

Training hours (female)

Not applicable

1937

791

1870

Not available

Training hours per employee

Not applicable

11.3

9.1

15.8

Not available

Training hours per employee (male)

Not applicable

6.7

8.5

10.2

Not available

Training hours per employee (female)

Not applicable

24.2

11

34

Not available

0

0

0

0

0

214

195

178

180

Not applicable

33

31

29

28

Capital Hospitality Not available

Human Rights Incidents of discrimination Total number of female employees (#) Number of nationalities across the workforce (#)

Not applicable

ADNEC Group- workforce statistics ADNEC, ADNEC Services, Capital Hospitality & Tourism 365 Total number of employees (#)

708

733

667

665

Not applicable

Full-time employees (#)

613

641

587

584

Not applicable

Part-time employees (#)

95

92

80

81

Not applicable

3

2

3

3

Not applicable

40

38

35

34

Not applicable

Full time employees in senior management (#) – Grades 0-2b Female Male

Full time employees in middle management (#) – Grades 3a/b Female

31

32

31

36

Not applicable

Male

50

49

48

52

Not applicable

Full time employee staff (other levels) (#) –Grades 4 - 5 Female

163

147

136

132

Not applicable

Male

326

373

334

327

Not applicable

Female full-time employees (#)

179

181

170

171

Not applicable

Male full-time employees (#)

416

460

417

413

Not applicable

Workforce by gender profile


011

Community

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

115

111

*

*

Not applicable

5,950

10,000

*

*

Not applicable

119,000

200,000

*

*

Not applicable

Number of employee volunteers (#)

143

165

*

*

Not applicable

Number of employee volunteering hours (hours; #)

171

219

*

*

Not applicable

Food Parcels donation (AED 000’)

119

200

*

*

Not applicable

1

17

*

*

Not applicable

Discount/free services to community (AED 000’)

11,880

31,290

430

3,256

Not applicable

ADNEC community investment- total (AED 000’)

12,000

31,507

430

3,256

Not applicable

3.8%

7.3%

0.1%

0.9%

51.5%

55.1%

0.8%

13.7%

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

3.4

4.9

1.4

2.4

3.0

19,348

27,534

7,591

13,392

17,000

Reputation and image

87%

92%

92%

89%

Not applicable

Social impact

85%

90%

90%

89%

Not applicable

Environmental impact

85%

90%

89%

91%

Not applicable

Impact of work and activities on surrounding

86%

90%

90%

91%

ADNEC brand perception total

86%

91%

90%

90%

Food parcel Number of employees volunteered (#) Number of distributed baskets (#) Total estimated value (AED)

Stop & donate donation (AED 000’)

ADNEC community investment (% of revenue) ADNEC community investment (% of pretax profit)

Not applicable

Not applicable

* Paused due to pandemic

Community ADNEC Economic Impact GVA (AED Billion) Jobs supported (#) ADNEC brand perception

Not applicable Not applicable

*2020: The survey wasn’t conducted due to COVID19. **2018-2019: The program was paused due to prioritisation exercise.


012

ESG REPORT

Governance Measure / KPI

Board of Directors

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Independent members of the Board of Directors

7

5

5

6

Not applicable

Non-independent members of the Board of Directors

0

0

0

1

Not applicable

Executive members of the Board of Directors

0

1

1

1

Not applicable

n/a

n/a

n/a

1

Not applicable

Female members of the Board of Directors

2

0

0

1

Not applicable

Male members of the Board of Directors

5

5

5

6

Not applicable

Percentage: Total board seats occupied by women

28%

0%

0%

14%

Not applicable

Percentage: Committee chairs occupied by women

0%

0%

0%

50%

Not applicable

100%

100%

100%

71%

Not applicable

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Percentage of non- audit fees out of total audit fees

100%

0

18%

32%

*

Percentage of completion of “Conflict of Interest Declarations” by the Directors of the Board

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Percentage of completion of the “Conflict of Interest Declarations” by ADNEC employees.

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Percentage of attendance of the members of the Board of Directors to the ADNEC Board meetings

82%

78%

100%

100%

100%

Percentage of attendance of the members of the Governance Committee (BoD sub-committees) to their meetings

100%

92%

92%

100%

100%

Percentage of ADNEC key governance documents reviewed for annual update (DoA, Committees Charters, Governance Approach, Risk Management Approach, Code of Conduct, Whistle Blowing Policy, Fraud Control Policy, Business Continuity Approach, Project Management Approach, etc.).

50%

33%

58%

79%

100%

Non-executive members of the Board of Directors

Total board seats occupied by Independents

Audit and Internal Control

*ADNEC is currently revising its calculation method for this measure. To be applied 2022 onward.


013

Privacy and data security Not applicable

Not applicable

Not applicable

Not applicable

0

Number of actuals cyberattacks

0

0

1

1

0

Number of data breaches

0

0

0

0

0

Number of attempted cyberattacks

Number of attempted cyberattacks is not possible to capture with the current network/security infrastructure as this might be in thousands per day and only the ones that actually hit the network can be ascertained. There are numerous interfaces that could be attacked, and this is especially the case of historical data as t has not been collected for reporting purposes.

Transparency and Business Practices

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Percentage of workforce has formally certified its compliance with the anti-corruption policy.

100%

100%

100%

100%

Not applicable

Number of operations assessed for risk related to corruption

14

13

7

11

Not applicable

52%

45%

24%

38%

100%

Number of corruption incidents

0

0

0

0

0

Total number of non-monetary sanctions

0

0

0

0

0

Percentage of operations assessed for risk related to corruption

- Historically, assessments of operations for risks related to corruption have been undertaken only as a component of the wider Internal Audit programme. - Following direction from ADAA and ADQ, ADNEC proposes that in 2022, a comprehensive Fraud Risk Assessment will be undertaken, with all subsidiaries and operations within scope of this exercise.

Reported instances of or legal actions relating to anticompetitive practices Percentage of workforce has formally certified its compliance with the anti-competitive (conflict of interest) policy.

Emiratisation and regional challenge

0

0

0

0

0

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Emiratisation (among full time staff ) Nationals among full time workforce (#)

134

131

123

119

124

Emiratisation (%)

72%

72.4%

72%

72%

72%


014

ESG REPORT

Environment • Environmental Management and Eco Design • Water Management • Energy Consumption • Atmospheric Emissions Related to Energy Consumption • Waste Management


015

Environmental Management and Eco Design Over 10 years ago, ADNEC started its journey towards environmental sustainability. The voluntary efforts started with establishing internal teams and committees, passionate about the environment and eager to make a change. Over the years, the company has worked on developing a robust internal process for implementing the requirements of international standards and best practices. In 2020, we celebrated the progress of this and our accomplishment of obtaining the Environmental Management Accreditation ISO14001. The aim of our environmental management system is to follow international standards, integrate internal processes and activities to comply with the best practices requirements. Consequently, ADNEC has rolled-out several initiatives that augment our environmental approach and it has fostered our goal of achieving long-term sustainability objectives. Our efforts paid off and were globally recognised as the company won several awards as per the table below. Best Sustainability Initiatives

Abu Dhabi Sustainable Leadership Awards 2020

Sustainability Award

MEES Awards 2017

Sustainability Award

AEO Excellence Awards 2017

Sustainability Award

AEO Excellence Awards 2015

Sustainability Award

AEO Excellence Awards 2014


016

ESG REPORT

Environmental Management plays a vital role on ADNEC’s growth and it ensures that activities cover environmental quality where both risk and opportunities are tackled considering the fast phase evolution of global business where technology, innovation and uncertain pandemic issues affects the over-all sustainability of resources.

Net-Zero Carbon Pledge for the Events Industry ADNEC committed and participated in Net Zero Carbon Events, a global initiative which aims to bring together a wide range of industry stakeholders to jointly tackle climate change and drive towards net zero by 2050. While this initiative is named “Net Zero Carbon Events”, the detailed content of the pledge explicitly refers to gases that trap heat in the atmosphere is called greenhouse gases – commonly abbreviated to GHG.

What is the Net Zero Carbon Events initiative? The Net Zero Carbon Events initiative aims to bring together a wide range of industry stakeholders to: Jointly communicate our industry’s commitment to tackling climate change and driving towards net zero by 2050 Develop common methodologies for measuring the industry’s direct, indirect and supply chain greenhouse gas emissions Construct an industry-wide Roadmap towards net zero by 2050, and emissions reductions by 2030 in line with the Paris Agreement and climate science, with support and guidance on key issues Foster collaboration with suppliers and customers to ensure alignment and common approaches Establish common mechanisms for reporting progress and sharing best practice


017

This initiative arises from the work of an organising task force initiated by leading industry stakeholders through global industry trade associations UFI, AIPC and ICCA joined by representatives of Emerald Expositions (US), Freeman (US), HKCEC (China), Informa (UK), Javits Center (US), MCI (Switzerland), Messe München (Germany), RX (UK) and Scottish Event Campus (UK). This initiative is hosted by JMIC – The Joint Meetings Industry Council and is supported by the UNFCCC, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, secretariat. Greenview is assisting the project from a technical perspective including managing the feedback processes relating to the Pledge and the Roadmap development, which is fully inclusive and open to all those who register with the initiative.

The Pledge ADNEC commits to support the goal of net zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, in line with global efforts set out by the Paris Agreement to limit warming to 1.5°C and reduce total global GHG emissions by 50% by 2030, and to advocate for industry efforts throughout the value chain to achieve the same. In pursuit of this aim, before end of 2023, ADNEC undertakes to publish its roadmap to achieve this goal. The Pledge was officially launched and announced in November 2021, as part of the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).

In line with the best available science on the impacts of climate change, we acknowledge that there is an urgent need to accelerate the transition towards global net-zero emissions, and for the events industry specifically and tourism sector in general to play its part in helping to deliver the goals of the Paris Agreement and ensuring a just transition. Recognising that our industry is comprised of a complex and fragmented mix of stakeholders from across the globe, we acknowledge that while individual companies and organisations may take specific actions to minimize their carbon impact, to drive meaningful progress a system-wide approach is also needed.


018

ESG REPORT

Roadmap Following the announcement of the pledge, key stakeholders started the process of collectively developing a roadmap for the events industry. Upon signing the Pledge, ADNEC and other organisations are committing to net-zero by 2050 and an ambition to make significant progress by 2030 – in line with globally accepted minimum targets. We are also committed to undertaking a process to set our own pathway towards achieving these goals and collaborating with other stakeholders in order to determine the most appropriate Roadmap for the industry as a whole. In establishing the Roadmap, which will be published in late 2022, specific actions, such as moving to renewables, and appropriate targets will be discussed and agreed.

The topics to be covered in the Roadmap include: • Mapping the carbon footprint of an event, including identification of key

emissions sources, who is responsible for them, significance and availability of data

• Calculating the carbon footprint of an event, including agreed metrics and

methodological approaches, available tools, and links to existing methodologies in use by related sectors (e.g. hotels, aviation)

• Opportunities and goals for carbon reduction activities, including renewables,

waste reduction, green transport etc, identification of collaborative opportunities and appropriate goals and targets


019

Offsetting of residual emissions, following a hierarchy of best practice and establishment of an industry-agreed protocol to approach scope 3 offsetting

Net zero claims and interim milestones, including how to claim ‘net zero’ status for a company or event, alignment to sectoral carbon budgets, and external audit and verification considerations

External collaboration opportunities, to drive reductions through the supply chain.

What is Net Zero? Net zero refers to a balance between man-made greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and their removal from the atmosphere. To achieve this balance, GHG emissions must be reduced and the non-avoided ones must be compensated or “neutralised” through the use of long-term carbon capture solutions. It is different from ‘carbon neutral’. For carbon neutrality, the non-avoided emissions are compensated through the use of traditional offsets (carbon credits coming from projects that develop renewable energies, efficient transport etc.). Carbon neutrality can be an intermediate step towards net zero.

What is the Paris Agreement? The Paris Agreement is an international treaty on climate change adopted in 2015 at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP21) in Paris. The Agreement set a longterm temperature goal to keep the rise in mean global temperature to well below 2°C (3.6°F) above pre-industrial levels, and preferably limit the increase to 1.5°C (2.7°F). In order to achieve this there is a recognition that global carbon emissions need to be reduced by 50% by 2030 from a 2018 baseline and for net zero emissions to be achieved by the second half of the century.


020

ESG REPORT

Water Management

As a valuable natural resource, ADNEC is committed to controlling and minimising water consumption where possible. As an event venue, water consumption will naturally vary due to the number of events hosted in the building. ADNEC has installed a number of water saving mechanisms including aerator/flow regulators for all wash basins, kitchen taps and bathroom trigger sprays at the venue. The five years historical consumptions are provided below to show the impact of water utilisation:

Utility Water consumption in cubic metres

2018

2019

2020

233,028

212,487

180,378

2021

Target

233,200 Not applicable


021

Energy Consumption

ADNEC has worked diligently to minimise energy consumption.. The following are the list of initiatives related to energy conservation: a) LED Lights Installation ADNEC has implemented the process of replacing conventional type lights such as fluorescent, Halogen etc. with power efficient LED type fittings in order to support ADNEC Strategic objective of becoming a sustainable venue. The benefits of LED lights include energy efficient, less power consumption, less maintenance cost and longer life span.

b) Lighting Control Systems Lighting control systems were placed in most areas of ADNEC venues which served to provide the right amount of light where and when it is required only. Also motion controlled lights have been installed in many offices and staircase areas. These control measures are deployed to maximise the energy savings from the lighting and also to comply with energy conservation programs. c) On-site renewable Energy: Solar Panels We have installed on-site solar panels on the roof of our Car Parks. A Grid connected 111 KWp Solar Photovoltaic system are placed in collaboration with Masdar in 2010 at Carpark B rooftop covering a gross area of 1000 square meters. The energy generated is monitored through allocated energy meter. A Thermal Solar system also been installed in Car park A Rooftop. This Solar hot water system provides domestic hot water to Aloft Hotel. d) Future Initiatives ADNEC is going to run HVAC and BMS System Enhancement and Modernisation. We will be having an IoT integrated system that provides quick data analysis, reports, and incidents. The system is going to give predictive suggestions for proactive management with the use of Artificial Intelligence.


022

ESG REPORT

d) Future Initiatives..continued It has critical system monitoring and alarms that prevent any incidents such as Fire Alarms, water overflow, low tank level, UPS battery failures, energy readings, scheduling and power saving mode activations etc. will be possible using AI and IoT support. Once the Project is completed, the current challenges such as humidity and condensation, system malfunctions and manual operations, temperature variations, excess energy usages etc. will be controlled and expected to have the following benefits: • Efficient energy optimisation and complete control on each energy factors. • Annual maintenance savings and regain depreciation value by retaining asset’s efficiency and balanced operations. • Sustainable and increased asset life cycle and preserve capital investments. In similar to water consumption, ADNEC highlights that energy consumption also depends on the number of events being hosted on yearly basis: Electricity (Kwh) for ADNEC (Phase 1 & 2) Utility Electricity in KWH

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

20,178,823

22,034,091

19,228,746

19,183,221

Not applicable


023

Atmospheric Emission Related to Energy Consumption

ADNEC’s core business is focussed on delivering events. The event deliverables and activities involved are carpentry works, food production, people and vehicle footfall etc. ADNEC measures CO2 emission and the following table describes its milestone on minimising the impact of CO2: Utility

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

CO2 emissions due to electricity in tons

10.4

11.3

9.9

9.8

Not applicable

CO2 emissions due to Recycling in tons

160.0

156.9

126.1

87.0

Not applicable

Total CO2 tons

170.4

168.2

136.0

96.8

Not applicable

Waste Management

ADNEC has been heavily engaged in implementing several projects that reduces waste and converts waste into a re-useable and recyclable product. These initiatives were operated across the venue and are continuously practiced in order to ensure environmental objectives are being achieved: a) b) c) d) e)

Bio Diesel RVM Plastic & Aluminum Cans Liquid Food Composting (LFC) Machines Recycling Paper Cardboard Boxes Robotic Scrubber Dryer

The table below reflects the actual waste generated and recycled and non-recycled materials that have been achieved at ADNEC and measured in tonnes. Key Performance Indicators

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Total waste generated (recyclable and non-recyclable) tons

1,510

1,769

443

680

Not applicable

Recycled material (tons)

777

749

172

344

Not applicable

Recycled material (%)

51%

42%

39%

51%

Not applicable

Non-recycled materials (tons)

733

1,020

271

336

Not applicable

Non-recycled materials (%)

49%

58%

61%

49%

Not applicable

Total Hazardous Waste Not applicable. As per ADNEC relevant policies and procedures, we don’t allow hazardous material to our premises and venues.


024

ESG REPORT

Social • Customers • Suppliers • Human Capital • Human Rights • Community

Customers Responsible Relationships with Customers As per the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) excellence model; ADNEC’s stakeholders are categorised into five catergories: • • • • •

Partners Customers Suppliers Society Employees

A key category of our stakeholders are our customers including organisers, exhibitors, and visitors, hotel guests, tourists, external catering clients in addition to others segments of clients.


ERS

ER

STR

IC

RS

l AD Ports

NE

OP

RT l EAG

SEHAl

l ADQ (shreholder)

NCEMAl Hotels Operatorsl

l General Headquarter

l Department of Culture and Tourism

Employeesl l Local Community Associations and NGOs

l Organisers l Visitors l Delegates

l Local Community

SOCI

l Exhibitors l Vendors

ET Y

l Service Providers

l Tourists & Hotel Guests

l Conference Associations l Professional Conference Organisers PCOs

l Contractors l Subcontractors l Consultants

SUP

l Office Tenant l Catering Clients

l MISC Clients

PLIE

RS

ES

EG

Agilityl

l Abu Dhabi Police

E M P LO Y E

AT

ME

TI

ON

AL

TN PA R

PA

A

025

S CU

TO

RS

Proximity to centre of wheel indicates intensity of required engagement

Regularly we measure the satisfaction of our customers. Since 2013, we have adopted a robust process for customer satisfaction and feedback conducted by a specilised third party company. This ensures credibility and objectives of results and analysis. The process also includes customer complaints and suggestions capturing. For proper documentation, we developed detailed customer satisfaction and customer suggestion and complaints approaches with clear performance measures. Our process includes physical interviews, virtual, online surveys and mystery shoppers. On a quarterly basis, customer voice analysis reports are discussed by ADNEC leadership through structured sessions. Corrective actions and follow up measures are taken accordongly.


026

ESG REPORT

Customer Satisfaction Our customer satisfaction is presented annually as per the chart below. This combines the results we get throughout the year from events and as per all types of mentioned customers. This also includes the NPS scores that we get from our customer segments.

For analysis purposes and to ensure the right corrective action, each business line is responsible to study the customer voice in relation to relevant products or services. Detailed analysis is managed by the quality assurance department and follow up mechanisms are in place.

Customer satisfaction score (%) Net Promoter Score (NPS)

2021 Target

2018

2019

2020

94%

95%

98%

93%

96%

79

79

85

72*

83

• Our results for 2020 and 2021 were calculated based on the events that we were allowed to host and as per the COVID-19 guidelines and protocols. • ** Despite lower than other years, the result is much higher industry standards which around 20+ (source: GRS Market Research). This has been affected by governmental restrictions on entering Abu Dhabi and ban on events.

The sustained customer satisfaction results were due to several factors: Leadership commitment and follow up Continuous improvement of services and products Continuous process improvement Robust customer voice management process Proper customer engagement (especially organisers) in proactive planning of delivery of certain services which supported the partnerships and shared objectives approach l More effective communication externally and externally l Applying the mystery shopper approach l l l l l


027

Customer Experience ADNEC has established, documented, implemented, and maintained a quality management system in accordance with the requirements of ISO 9001. Through such standards and by fulfilling its requirements, the company has been able to establish continuous improvement practices, which have become a focus to meet the requirements and expectations of external and internal customers.

Despite the difficulties during 2020 due to pandemic, the company continued its project of expanding its portfolio of ISO standards and international best practices and successfully managed to get the certificate of two important standards in 2021 Event Sustainability Management System ISO 20121 and Environment Management ISO 14001.

The company has been able to establish continuous improvement practices, which have become a focus to meet the requirements and expectations of external and internal customers.

ADNEC is considered the first company to achieve the ISO 20121 standard in the business tourism sector in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa). This is a true reflection of our leadership commitment towards excellence and best practice adoption.


028

ESG REPORT

Below are some examples of initiatives/measures we have taken to enhance our customer experience: l ISO 14001 and ISO 20121 Management Systems: Standards are aligned with our internal initiatives to gain customer trust towards our environmental and sustainable activities. Likewise, those have facilitated and regulated the issuance of post-show sustainability reports, that is valuable to our clients (Organisers) l ISO 20000-1 Management System: This standard helped in developing a structured IT Service Delivery process which has significantly enhanced the overall customer satisfaction. It provides a direct impact on: cohesive service-oriented culture, IT service catalogue and client self-service capability, governance of services and processes and supplier portfolio management l Capital Events online registration: Capital Events is our organising arm, responsible for managing ADNEC’s events portfolio (planning, execution and review) of our events. The registration for an event is a pre-requisite in most of cases to attend and so shifting towards an automated and online process was a positive news to our customers especially during the pandemic

Additionally, ADNEC developed a detailed approach for customer complaints and suggestions. The followed approached identifies clear channels for feedback capturing and analysis. These channels vary from traditional channels such as face-toface and a hot-line number to a more tailored and technology enabled platforms such as emails, website, social media, organiser and exhibitor platform, our event management system EBMS, chatbot and more.

For proper management and follow up, we define and classify complaints based on certain business criteria and impact.


029

The quality assurance department is responsible for the overall complaints management process, playing a centralised role between all relevant departments and ensuring actions are taken in a timely manner. For proper management and follow up, we define and classify complaints based on certain business criteria and impact. We received tens of remarks and notes that do not fit the definition below as they are dealt with immediately by our teams. The table below summarises the complaints situation since 2018. 2018

2019

2020

2021 Target

Number of customer complaints* filed (#)

5

3

0

0

0

Number of customer complaints resolved (#)

5

3

0

0

0

*Complaints: identified as (Genuine, Severity: mid+), referring to customers suggestions and complaints approach matrix.

Suppliers Supply Chain Management Conflict of Interest for Local Regular Suppliers (COI) Our vendors or suppliers are required to follow a Conflict of Interest for Local Regular Suppliers (CoI). In the future as of 2022, we will extend this to a Supplier Code of Conduct.

Percentage of suppliers have formally certified their compliance with the Conflict of Interest for Local Regular Suppliers (CoI)

2018

2019

2020

2021 Target

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%


030

ESG REPORT

We address environmental and social considerations into ADNEC’s procurement process. This is happening gradually as we are shifting towards a more responsible buying and green procurement. We favour suppliers with stronger environmental or social performance as part of our supplier evaluation process. As part of supplier evaluation, we identified 10 criterias covering all aspects of supplier performance as described in the table below. Criteria 2, 7, 8 and 9 directly related to ESG requirements. Supplier Evaluation Criteria

% of Overall Score

1.

Legal status in the UAE

10%

2.

Financial stability

10%

3.

Previous relevant experience and credible references

25%

4.

Location of the company

10%

5.

Experience of key staff members

10%

6.

Capacity assessment – to ensure the supplier can deliver on the proposed work

15%

7.

Environmental Policy & Waste Management

5%

8.

Corporate Social Responsibility activities

5%

9.

ISO Accreditations and H&S Policy

5%

10. Organisational chart

5%

* The above scores are subject to change according to the nature of tender

Additionally, 98% of our suppliers have acknowledged their private sector compliance as stipulated by Abu Dhabi Government regulations. This addresses the social aspects in terms of wage protection, appropriate medical insurance, and accommodation. During Supplier Registration, the Suppliers are encouraged to submit their initiatives with regard to Corporate Social Responsibility.

We favour suppliers with stronger environmental or social performance, as part of our supplier evaluation process.


031

ADNEC engages a global supply base, spending more than 140 AED million during 2021 with more than 300 suppliers. Products and services bought are far ranging in order to fulfil our diverse business commitments – from improving venue facilities, to building and servicing exhibition environments from scratch, to catering for large scale events. ADNEC expects certain standards from its suppliers, not least for them to formally declare any conflicts of interest, to comply with all relevant health, safety and environmental laws and to protect confidential information. A detailed list of checks against a scoring system is made on registration and qualification of a new supplier and during the technical evaluation of any bids they make, to ensure adherence with our expectations as a business. Tender Evaluation Committees are in place to ensure proper scrutiny is upheld during the procurement process.

Supporting local suppliers ADNEC supports the UAE ICV program and believe is its long-term impact on local economy and its role in driving more economic value to UAE business sectors. In 2021 ADNEC started its ICV program for its commercial subsidiaries wherever applicable. ADNEC Group consists of several business lines such as events services, catering, hotels and recently the company established and launched its leisure tourism arm (Tourism 365). Accordingly, we started the ICV adoption for procurement transactions for these business lines and as per their trade license allowing them to compete during tendering process. We have a contract with a specialised third-party registrar to help us in ICV calculation and secure needed certifications. This program allows us to request our suppliers to provide their ICVs if applicable. Additionally, ADNEC encourages participation of SMEs and/ or Khalifa Fund (KF) companies in tenders/RFQs. During tendering process, the bidders are requested to submit their intent to RFQ mentioning if they are categorised as an SME /KF company. Moreover, ADNEC procurement allocates a percentage of its annual procurement plan to SMEs.


032

ESG REPORT

Procurement practices 2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Total procurement spending (million AED)

112

137

59

178

Not applicable

Procurement spending on local suppliers (million AED)

111

135

58

171

Not applicable

Total number of local suppliers engaged (#)

n/a

n/a

n/a

420*

Not applicable

* As of December 2021. This is a cumulative number, the individual numbers cannot be extracted from AX due to frequent updating done on Vendor data as per requirements.

Awareness Internally, we conduct sessions to increase awareness of responsible buying and promote the use of sustainable products and services. This is done through several channels such as employee training, specialised procurement session and ESG team awareness sessions. Externally, we encourage our suppliers to adopt international best practices related to sustainability such as ESG and GRI by playing an advisory role during our suppliers’ engagement activities. To ensure this positive change, we follow the supplier evaluation process, suppliers contractual KPIs and ADNEC ICV program. ADNEC Procurement examines the green environment policy, sustainability practices (ESG & GRI), related ISO Certifications and waste management policy during the supplier evaluation process.


033

Human Capital Health and Safety Occupational Health and Safety ADNEC has a documented Health and Safety Management System comprising of policies, procedures, SOP’s and associated documents in line with local and international standards and certified by Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (OSHAD). We run regular campaigns and sessions to promote and communicate our initiatives for employees and/or contractors and to promote worker health. This includes healthy lifestyle and mental health. This is supported with dedicated and specialised training in collaboration with our Human Capital department. Regular training sessions are conducted addressing topics such as First Aid, Fire Marshals, Safe Driving, Emergency Planning and Tests such as Evacuation Drills and Chemical Spills. Health & Safety Measures

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Total employee man hours (#)

749,232

779,328

727,584

969,285

980,000

Total contractor man hours (#)

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

Employee fatalities (#)

0

0

0

0

0

Contractor fatalities (#)

0

0

0

0

0

Employee total recordable injuries (#)

6

8

10

4

0

Contractor total recordable injuries (#)

28

36

47

27

0

Employee lost-time injuries (#)

0

2

4

4

0

Contractor lost-time injuries (#)

5

20

12

0

0

13%

17%

13%

4%

NA

Absenteeism rate* *Absenteeism rate =

(total number of missed workdays (for full time employees)) (total workdays (for full time employees))

* Missed workdays includes following leaves: • Sick Leave

• Uncertified Sick Leave

• Injury Sick Leave

• Escort Leave

• Local Emergency Leave

• Suspension Leave

• Unauthorised Leave

• Unpaid Leave

• Iddah

• Hajj Leave

• Sports Leave

Health and Safety of Products and Services Health & Safety Measures

2018

2019

2020

2021 Target

No. of product recalls (#)

Not applicable to ADNEC Group sector (s)

No. of product incidents (#)

Not applicable to ADNEC Group sector (s)

Sector Applicability: Healthcare & Pharma, Mobility and Logistics.


034

ESG REPORT

Employee Training and Development ADNEC believes that our people are our most valuable asset and therefore we constantly seek to develop our employees in line with their personal career ambitions. The company provides learning and development opportunities for all employees, with a focus on UAE Nationals, in order to bridge any performance gaps and to prepare people for new roles and responsibilities. ADNEC aims to develop all employees to reach their maximum potential in order that they may have the knowledge, skills, attitudes and commitment necessary to meet current as well as future business needs. Below are the various programmes & initiatives in place across the ADNEC Group to support employees to perform at their best.

On boarding of new employees

New employees joining ADNEC are introduced to the various companies, leaders, teams and processes that make up the ADNEC Group. Our teams are welcoming of new joiners and most newcomers report feeling very well cared for during their initial days and weeks with us.

Training We have a number of different options available to employees to meet their training needs: l In-person training courses - we select highly qualified and experienced internal trainers and external training providers to deliver training to meet specific requirements. These usually fall into one of three categories: § Technical Programs – core, job specific and specialised training in a specific career field or profession § Behavioural Programs – ‘soft’ skills programs § Leadership Programs – programs or activities that make employees become better leaders l Online learning – during 2020 and 2021, due to the pandemic, the majority of training was delivered online. Our partnership with the Coursera platform enabled our employees to continue to develop their skills in a vast range of different subjects. l ADNEC Distanced Talks – a knowledge sharing initiative encouraging our staff to share their skills and experience with their peers across the business. We know that all employees possess unique and beneficial knowledge and experiences, and we encourage them to share these to benefit other employees.


035

Coaching Program During 2019 we launched our internal Coaching Program, initially training a team of 15 internal coaches who have all been certified in the International Coaching Federation (ICF) Foundation Program. The Coaching Program supports personal development and learning through establishing one-on-one relationships between employees and our trained Coaches. The process of being coached in the workplace can bring about many benefits including increased empowerment, sense of responsibility staff engagement and performance. During the pandemic, coaching has continued via online meetings to ensure continuation of this beneficial program. Personal Development Plan (PDP) Each employee completes an annual PDP with the support of their line manager and this helps direct his or her learning and development efforts for the year ahead. The PDP sits alongside the annual performance review process and gives structure and purpose to their learning journey. Competency Framework Each job role has a competency framework to help employees measure their effectiveness and plan for their development accordingly. Both technical and behavioural competencies are considered. Competencies are assessed as part of the 6 monthly performance review along with personal KPIs set for each employee. Ignite Development Program Our IGNITE Program supports talented and recent Emirati graduates to settle quickly into the world of work, building the skills, knowledge and connections to thrive. The structured program introduces them to the entire business to ensure they understand the full context of the ADNEC Group and how the teams within it operate. This dedication to their career growth gives them a great platform to develop from.

ADNEC aims to develop all employees to reach their maximum potential, in order that they may have the knowledge, skills, attitudes and commitment necessary to meet current as well as future business needs.


036

ESG REPORT

Training & Development

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Male employees

5250

3627

2670

2,905

Not applicable

Female employees

3355

3172

2911

3,831

Not applicable

Average training per employee (hours)

42

39

25

27

Not applicable

Average training per employee (hours) Male employees

35

31

15

20

Not applicable

Average training per employee (hours) Female employees

55

52

41

36

Not applicable

ADNEC Group – ADNEC, ADNEC Services Total training per employee (hours)

Training & Development

2018 2019 2020 2021

Target

Capital Hospitality Total training per employee (hours) Male employees

Not applicable

1512

1728

1800 Not applicable

Female employees

Not applicable

1937

791

1870 Not applicable

Average training per employee (hours)

Not applicable

11.3

9.1

15.8 Not applicable

Average training per employee (hours) Male Not applicable employees

6.7

8.5

10.2 Not applicable

24.2

11

34 Not applicable

Average training per employee (hours) Female employees

Not applicable

Tourism 365 was established during 2021 therefore training figures will be presented from 2022 onwards.

Health & Wellbeing We look to continuously support our employees to choose healthy lifestyles through providing information and training that take into account their physical, emotional and social wellbeing. Subjects include exercise, nutrition and mindfulness. Throughout the pandemic our Human Capital team have taken the initiative to check in with employees – particularly during periods where our staff were working from home. Making sure our people were safe, well and feeling supported was, and remains, an important part of our strategy to safeguard the workforce during this difficult period. Regular PCR tests, made available at ADNEC free of charge, remain a vital tool for us in keeping our teams safe, as does strongly encouraging vaccination and boosters.


037

Ensuring robust entry checks are in place allows us to ensure compliance with our own rules as well as those of the various governing authorities. Establishing robust working from home processes and technologies helped us safeguard our people throughout the pandemic and play a vital ongoing method of ensuring business continuity when things become challenging again from time to time. Communication plays a vital part in supporting our employees and we use various means to ensure we reach everyone effectively, including email, onsite signage, intranet and other digital means such as WhatsApp. Our effective working from home process has enabled us to further support the worklife balance of our people through the newly introduced Remote Working Policy. Employees can conduct 25% of their total required monthly days as remote working. We look forward to seeing the benefits of this new scheme as our teams begin to make more choices about where they conduct their work.

Employee Listening We invite feedback from our people on a regular basis, the main methods being: l l l l

Staff annual satisfaction survey Investors In People surveys Flash surveys on specific topics on an ad hoc basis We use the results of these anonymous surveys to support our efforts to ensure we have an engaged, happy and high performing workforce.

Investors in People Award l We are committed to create a work environment where we recognise and celebrate our people’s achievements and value their contributions in driving our business forward. l Investing in our people is a priority commitment and a strategic goal for ADNEC. We strive to continuously provide everything that enables employees to excel and to actively contribute to the achievement of the company’s goals. l We are proud to have achieved the Investors In People (IIP) accreditation during 2021 and we consider this to be a key milestone in our journey to continuously improving how we support our most valuable asset – our people.


038

ESG REPORT

Human Rights Prevention of Human Rights Violations Human rights are guaranteed by the UAE Constitution and ADNEC Group follows all relevant human rights policies published by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Our internal HR policies and procedures comply with international laws and human rights regulations and we ensure our employees understand our policies through workshops which take place approximately every six months to highlight any recent changes. Employees can report any perceived human rights violations through the Whistleblowing facility. Human rights in our supply chain are covered in the procurement section of this report. Human rights are guaranteed by the UAE Constitution and we expect all suppliers to follow all relevant human rights policies published by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). Human Rights Violations

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

0

0

0

0

0

Incidents of discrimination

ADNEC Group – ADNEC, ADNEC Services, Capital Hospitality & Tourism 365

Human Rights – Supply Chain ADNEC takes its responsibility towards safeguarding human rights seriously. We therefore undertake more detailed checks during procurement processes where manpower is the core provision of a chosen supplier. Our expectations are clearly set out in the scope of work and we make thorough checks of key welfare factors such as: l Provision of food for staff – the supplier must provide three full meals per day including a nutritious balance of food groups. l Accommodation for staff – the supplier must provide a good standard of accommodation that includes consideration of the following elements: Cooking facilities Laundry facilities Adequate washroom facilities Recreational facilities – TV room, outdoor space for exercise and games available to all staff § Proximity of the accommodation to ADNEC / AACC or their main workplace to ensure long distance travel is not required § § § §


039

l Transportation to and from work - safety checks on the vehicles must be regularly made. Vehicles must include seatbelts and fire extinguishers l Salary – minimum wage is mandatory, and we look to ensure equal pay for both genders. We look to influence salaries where possible – for example ensuring those with experience are paid accordingly l Medical insurance should be provided for all staff l Leave travel entitlement – on average our staffing service providers allow for each staff member to receive a paid flight to their home country once every 24 months l Uniforms and safety equipment where needed – three sets of uniforms and shoes should be provided for each person Typically, during the first few months of a contract that includes a substantial number of staff, a number of checks are made to ensure compliance with the contract. Spot checks and interviews are conducted to check staff are being paid on time and that all provisions promised to them are being made. ADNEC will use its influence with the supplier to enforce corrective actions if needed. Training is another important factor connecting to the human rights of our hired in teams. We ensure they are given all health & safety related training. A good example of this is all food handlers working under Capital Hospitality must have an EFST Certificate (Essential Food Safety Training Certificate). Issued by the municipality, this is a mandatory training and certification for everyone who works with food. As well as safety training, we want all the staff representing the ADNEC Group to do so with a sense of pride and purpose – factors known to be important for staff to have a sense of wellbeing at work. Some of our hired in teams include security guards, traffic marshals, cleaners and catering staff – these teams are often interacting with our venue visitors far more than our permanent staff.

We want all the staff representing the ADNEC Group to do so with a sense of pride and purpose- factors known to be important for staff to have a sense of wellbeing at work.


040

ESG REPORT

We therefore discuss any training gaps we see with their employers, or we look to fill these gaps through training we provide in the form of on-the-job briefings. The excellent standard of Health & Safety practices we have across our venues means that contracted staff, along with our permanent teams, are coming to work in a safe environment. Our experienced, dedicated safety teams ensure that any risk to staff health or safety in the workplace is as minimal as possible. During the last two years, a great deal of this focus has been around safety protocols in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. Our teams have worked in collaboration with the authorities and their industry peers to develop new protocols that safeguard staff as well as all persons entering our venues.

Equal Opportunity ADNEC strives to attract highly qualified potential employees and to provide optimum working and career development conditions that meet its organisational needs regardless of gender, nationality, age and colour of candidates. As part of its strategy, ADNEC’s commitment is to establish fair practices and provide equal opportunities when it comes to its employees. We are proud to employ a diverse workforce. We have never reported any discrimination incidents within ADNEC. ADNEC management recognise that having a balance of genders at every level of the organisation will bring benefits to the success of our business. We are committed to empowering female colleagues and we strive to support their career development and growth as the future generation of leaders in the business tourism sector. Equal Opportunity Total number of female employees (#) Number of nationalities across the workforce (#)

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

214

195

178

180

Not applicable

33

31

29

28

Not applicable

ADNEC Group – ADNEC, ADNEC Services, Capital Hospitality & Tourism 365

We are committed to empowering female colleagues and we strive to support their career development and growth.


041

Case studies Manal Al Ali, recruited as a Senior Finance Analyst in 2015, was

appointed ADNEC Director – Finance & Procurement in December 2020. Manal transferred from Capital Hospitality where she had spent the previous 18 months as Director – Finance & HR. Manal is the first Emirati female to be appointed to a senior leadership position. She attended a government provided Leadership development programmed in 2020.

Nada Dawood, recruited as Communications Manager –

ADNEC in 2018, was promoted to Head of Marketing – ADNEC a year later and shortly afterwards given responsibility for Capital Hospitality and ADNEC Services alongside ADNEC venues. During 2021 Nada was promoted to Director of Marketing – ADNEC Group and is now responsible for marketing activities across the entire group including ADNEC and AACC venues, Capital Events, Capital Hospitality, ADNEC Services and Tourism 365.

Roula Jouny was appointed as Executive Director of Tourism

365 – ADNEC’s newly launched travel division, during 2021. Roula’s extensive experience and proven track record in this sector made her the perfect appointment to launch and grow this new division at ADNEC. Roula is the first female to hold the title of Executive Director across the ADNEC Group.

Khaula Bin Buti joined ADNEC in 2015 with limited

experience but quickly demonstrated her excellent abilities and now manages all ISO Management Systems, leads the ADNEC Innovation Team and is a key member of several groups managing vital topics such as ESG. Khaula represented ADNEC in the EFQM innovation award and received the trophy on behalf of the company during the ceremony in Finland.


042

ESG REPORT

ADQ Game Changers Leadership Program We are proud that two of our female ADNEC team members were selected during 2021 for the ADQ Game Changers Leadership Program. The program is in partnership with London Business School to develop the UAE’s next generation of business leaders. The objective of the 3-year program is to provide high-potential employees with a best-in-class learning experience that will provide an accelerated path to learning new skills, to enable them to become future business leaders. Ana Khachfani from Capital Hospitality and Sameirah Al Dhanhani from the ADNEC Finance team are among only 100 employees working across ADQ companies to embark on an exciting and enriching three-year learning journey. This program is directly related to ADNEC’s strategic objectives of being an institution of growth and continuous learning. Workforce Overview

2018

2019 2020 2021

Target

ADNEC Group – ADNEC, ADNEC Services, Capital Hospitality & Tourism 365 Total number of employees (#)

708

733

667

665

Not applicable

Full-time employees (#)

613

641

587

584

Not applicable

Part-time employees (#)

95

92

80

81

Not applicable

0

0

0

0

Not applicable

3

2

3

3

Not applicable

40

38

35

34

Not applicable

Female

31

32

31

36

Not applicable

Male

50

49

48

52

Not applicable

Female

163

147

136

132

Not applicable

Male

326

373

334

327

Not applicable

Female full-time employees (#)

179

181

170

171

Not applicable

Male full-time employees (#)

416

460

417

413

Not applicable

Employee total recordable injuries (#) Full time employees in senior management (#) – Grades 0-2b Female Male Full time employees in middle management (#) – Grades 3a/b

Full time employee staff (other levels) (#) –Grades 4

-5

Workforce by gender profile


043

Community Community Engagement and Investment As part of its social impact and role, ADNEC has been driving society focused initiatives throughout the last 10 years. The beginning was with CSR type of events focusing on donation and volunteering but as we have matured as a suitability focused organisation, our initiatives have slightly evolved to include community engagement elements: l Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque volunteering In line with ADNEC initiatives for Year of Zayed, in collaboration with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, we provided a volunteer opportunity for ADNEC staff to work in the Ramadan tents at the mosque. Unfortunately, this initiative was stopped in 2020 and 2021 due to pandemic. We are hoping to resume this during next Ramadan April 2022. In 2018, number of participant volunteers was 28 which increased to 54 in 2019. l Food Parcel distribution Through its catering arm “Capital Hospitality”; ADNEC has regularly organised Iftar Meals distribution at the labour camps during the Month of Ramadan. Employees from all departments as well as senior management have volunteered to participate in the distribution. This initiative was stopped in 2020 and 2021 due to pandemic. We are hoping to resume this during next Ramadan April 2022. The table below shows various details: Food parcel

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

115

111

*

*

Not applicable

5,950

10,000

*

*

Not applicable

119,000

200,000

*

*

Not applicable

Number of employee volunteers (#)

143

165

*

*

Not applicable

Number of employee volunteering hours (hours; #)

171

219

*

*

Not applicable

Number of employees volunteered (#) Number of distributed baskets (#) Total estimated value (AED)

* Paused due to pandemic


044

ESG REPORT

l Blood Donation In 2018, ADNEC and AACC teams launched a Blood Donation campaign in alignment with the Year of Zayed values, under the slogan: You Don’t Have to Be a Doctor to Save Lives, Just Donate Blood. A total of 49 units of blood units were collected. In 2019 the campaign was launched again where a total of 74 units of blood were collected. We will resume this initiative in 2022 depending on the pandemic situation. l ‘STOP AND DONATE’ recycling and donation campaign ADNEC aims to drive a wider agenda of embedding an environmental culture with its employees as well as the community. The ‘Stop and Donate’ campaign encourages the local community to drop off their unwanted items for donation to the Red Crescent or for recycling. Collection points were set up and announced at ADNEC and AACC premises. We received a record number of donations from the community in 2019, due to a marketing campaign targeting the local community. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic and restrictions on venue accessibility forced us to pause this initiative which we plan to resume once the pandemic situation improves and restrictions ease٫

Our journey with sustainability started 10 years ago. At the beginning, our efforts were driven by voluntary efforts from various committees such as ADNEC green team. A group of people aiming for positive impact on society gather from different departments and work continuously towards sustainability. These voluntary efforts triggered certain initiatives such as school educational programme, Stop and Donate programme, charities, fund-raising in support of autism, blood donation campaigns and summer sport activities.


045

ADNEC aims to drive a wider agenda of embedding

Year after year, the focus on sustainability an environmental culture evolved and ADNEC structured its efforts towards with its employees and sustainability through a robust governance model well as the community. linked to its strategic objectives. More resources have been allocated and gradually the work became more consistent. In 2018, ADNEC launched its initiative “ADNEC Giving” which provided an organised volunteering opportunity for all staff to participate as mentioned in previous section the Iftar Gatherings at Shaikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Food Parcel Distribution. As part of its positive social impact and community development role, ADNEC continuously aims to contribute to the success of events that have a social impact on community. We support events that has a nature related to educational programs, school community, vocational training, people with determination, social aspects related to Abu Dhabi’s residents and non-local communities and so many others. ADNEC teams provide logistics and operational support to these events; we also provide special rates and discounts contributing to the success of these shows from a financial perspective. The table below summarises our contribution to community through several initiatives. We estimated the impact of each initiative and quantified it to provide a reasonable financial estimation. Also, the table provides a comparison with ADNEC revenue and profit: Estimation of ADNEC social impact initiatives - AED 000’

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

119

200

*

*

Not applicable

1

17

*

*

Not applicable

Discount/free services to community (AED 000’) 11,880

31,290

430

3,256

Not applicable

Total value of ADNEC community investment (AED 000’)

12,000

31,507

430

3,256

Not applicable

ADNEC community investment as a % of company revenue

3.8%

7.3%

0.1%

0.9%

Not applicable

ADNEC community investment as a % of pre-tax profit (%)

51.5%

55.1%

0.8%

13.7%

Not applicable

Food Parcels donation (AED 000’) Stop & donate donation (AED 000’)

* Paused due to pandemic


046

ESG REPORT

Fighting Covid-19 Since the beginning of the pandemic, ADNEC has been collaborating with relevant stakeholders across UAE and working together to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on our lives. The company has been providing continuous support to key stakeholders such as health related organisations in Abu Dhabi in the form of logistical and operational support, capitalising on our agility and resilience capabilities.

In a short period of time, right after the lockdown in March 2020; ADNEC converted its catering functions into a production line of meals serving the demand of thousands of heroes from our first line defence across medical, health and security sectors. Our venues swiftly converted into field hospitals, testing centres, vaccination points and warehouses. Also, our hotels were provided as either quarantine or residency for medical staff. The company has been working tirelessly towards playing its national role and achieve its obligation as a key player in the economic and social sector of Abu Dhabi. In addition to this, we have been supporting the local community through awareness campaigns and promotional activities to increase understanding of the pandemic and to increase commitment towards fighting this virus by playing a national role in following the government rules and regulations and reflect to the highest levels of self-accountability and responsibility.


047

ADNEC Economic Impact Through its activities and main business lines, ADNEC Group contributes to the economic prosperity of Abu Dhabi and UAE. Our activities are directly linked to Abu Dhabi’s key sectors and focus areas such as tourism, health, education, agriculture, energy, and many others. Our events attract international, regional and local customers in the form of organisers, trade exhibitors, visitors and business travellers, associations, tourists and others. They represent global brands and key regional and local organisations. Throughout our supply chain and value added activities we generate an economic impact that is calculated based on international standards. Our economic impact is divided into direct, indirect and induced as per the nature of our activities and supply chain effect. We calculate the social impact of our activities in the form of jobs supported. The table below provides an overview of our economic impact (Gross Value Add). ADNEC Economic Impact * GVA Gross Value Add (AED Billion) Jobs supported (#)

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

3.4

4.9

1.4

2.4

3.0

19,348

27,534

7,591

13,392

17,000

* Results have been affected heavily by pandemic due to ban on travel and restrictions on mass gatherings.

Throughout our supply chain and value added activities of we generate an economic impact that is calculated based on an international standards.


048

ESG REPORT

Products and Services Impact on the Community Society Perception Society engagement and perception is one of ADNEC’s areas of focus. The company dedicated a special theme in its strategy map for sustainability including clear goals, objectives, and a set of strategic measures, supported by regular reporting and analysis. As a result, the society satisfaction survey was conducted through an independent third-party market research contractor to ensure objectivity and impartiality. The perception questionnaire contains the below summarised segmentations, that covers the relevant sustainability areas: 1. Reputation and image 2. Social impact 3. Environmental impact 4. Impact on surroundings

ADNEC Brand Perception

2015 2016 2017 2021

Reputation and image

87%

92%

92%

89%

Not applicable

Social impact

85%

90%

90%

89%

Not applicable

Environmental impact

85%

90%

89%

91%

Not applicable

Impact of work and activities on surrounding

86%

90%

90%

91%

Not applicable

Score

86%

91%

90%

90%

Not applicable

*2020: The survey wasn’t conducted due to COVID19 **2018-2019: The program was paused due to prioritization exercise.

Target


049

Future Plans In continuation of its efforts towards the community ADNEC is determined to establish more robust and structured community engagement initiatives related to its core business in hosting and organising world class events and exhibitions. Consequently, ADNEC have started a collaboration with government entities to participate and organise several new CSR initiatives related to the core business. For instance, in collaboration with Takamul Innovation Program – managed by the Department of Economic Development Abu Dhabi – and Capital Events - the event organiser subsidiary by ADNEC, will work together to showcase UAE inventors and their inventions each with the relevant event profile. This initiative will help community individuals to start their SME and gain recognition with potential investors worldwide.


050

ESG REPORT

Governance • Board of Directors • Audit And Internal Control • Transparency And Business Practices • Regional challenge Nationalisation

Board of Directors Chairman Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi Ports, the operator and the manager of commercial and community ports within the emirate of Abu Dhabi, as well as Fujairah Terminals, Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD) and ZonesCorp. In his role, he oversees the development of Abu Dhabi Ports’ portfolio of assets and activities as well as directs their strategy and operations. A strong, determined, and entrepreneurial leader, he leads the Group in supporting the government’s objective of diversifying the non-oil and gas economy. Captain Al Shamisi is an experienced maritime executive with almost 20 years of industry experience.


051

ADNEC Managing Director and Group CEO Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri is the Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC). He has contributed to strengthening ADNEC Group’s position in the business tourism sector locally and internationally, enabling the company to become a key player in supporting Abu Dhabi’s economy, alongside enhancing the group’s businesses and innovative competitiveness. Humaid has more than 20 years of extensive combined experience in both government and private sectors. He is a board member of Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company, ExCeL London, and Deputy Chair and Head of the Executive Committee of TwoFour54, and board member at Image Nation Abu Dhabi and Zayed University. He is also the Chairman of Audit Committees at Abu Dhabi Municipality and Zayed University. Humaid holds a Master’s degree in Strategy and National Security Studies from the National Defense College in Abu Dhabi, a Master’s degree in International Accounting and Financial Management from the University of Glasgow in the UK, and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the United Arab Emirates University.


052

ESG REPORT

Hamad Hareb Al Muhairi - Board Member Mr Al Muhairi holds the position of Director of Government Protocol in Abu Dhabi Executive Office. His career is also fledged with various professional skills and practices through participation in many organisational committees in Abu Dhabi government including the chairmanship of patronage and Visit Requests Committee of His Highness the Crown Prince of Emirate of Abu Dhabi Chairman of the Executive Council and His Highness the Vice Chairman.

Kevin Murphy OBE - Board Member Kevin Murphy is currently the Chairman of ExCeL London. He has twice served as Chairman of the AEO (Association of Exhibition Organisers) in addition to serving as a board member of ABC (Audit Bureau of Circulations) and Chairman of the AEV (Association of Event Venues). During his time as CEO of ExCeL London, Murphy oversaw the investment of £165m by ADNEC, which created a further 40,000m2 of exhibition space and London’s International Convention Centre. Kevin was a Board member of London and Partners until November 2017, the official promotion organisation for London. In 2015, he also joined the Board of Visit Britain, the strategic body for inbound tourism and the National Tourism Agency, a public body funded by DCMS (Department for Media, Culture and Sport). In 2016, Murphy was awarded an OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in the New Year Honours list in recognition of his services to the Business Tourism industry.

Gerald Lawless - Board Member Gerard Lawless joined Jumeirah Group in 1997 and helped establish it as one of the premier luxury hotel brands in the world. Taking on the challenge of launching Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious hotel, after the successful introduction of Jumeirah Beach Hotel to an eager travelling public. Mr Lawless went on to become President and Group Chief Executive Officer of the Jumeirah Group. He then led the development of the group for the next twenty years. At the beginning of 2016, having served at the helm of the Jumeirah Group, Mr. Lawless assumed a new leadership position responsible for tourism and hospitality in Dubai Holding, the Group’s parent company. During this period, he served as Chairman of the World Travel and Tourism Council. He has now retired from these roles and continues to reside in Dubai.


053

Roque Solabarrieta - Board Member Roque Solabarrieta is currently an Investment Director at ADQ focusing on media, tourism and real estate sectors. Roque is an experienced Telecom, Media and Strategy Consultant with a demonstrated track record in strategy, transformation and operations across Americas, Europe and Middle East. Prior joining ADQ, he worked as a Chief Operating Officer for Etisalat Group (EG) – (Abu Dhabi, UAE) for more than 10 years after working for Booz & Company (Former Booz Allen Hamilton) as a Strategy – Associate (Telecommunications). Roque is currently a board member of twofour54 (Media Company), ImageNationAD and ExCeL London.

Iman Al Qasim - Board Member Iman Al Qasim is Executive Vice President Human Capital at Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA). A Human Resources leader and change agent with particular expertise in organisational transformation. She has over 20 years of experience in industries including Finance, Energy, Automotive, and Retail and in both Government and multinational organisations. Before joining EGA, she was the Group Human Resources Director at Emirates National Oil Company ENOC. Earlier in her career, she served as Executive Director of Human Capital at Mubadala Investment Company, Deputy Vice President Human Resources at Dolphin Energy, and Human Resources Director at General Motors Middle East.


054

ESG REPORT

The below summarises our followed best practices and international standards: 2018 2019 2020 2021

Target

Independent¹ members of the Board of Directors

7

5

5

6

Not applicable

Non-independent members of the Board of Directors

0

0

0

1

Not applicable

Executive members of the Board of Directors

0

1

1

1

Not applicable

n/a

n/a

n/a

1

Not applicable

Female members of the Board of Directors

2

0

0

1

Not applicable

Male members of the Board of Directors

5

5

5

6

Not applicable

Non-executive members of the Board of Directors

¹ an independent director is one who, apart from receiving director's remuneration, does not have any other material pecuniary relationship or transactions with the company, its promoters, its management or its subsidiaries, which in the opinion of the board would interfere with the exercise of independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities of a director. In other words, an independent director has no material relationship with ADNEC, either directly (as an employee) or as a partner, shareholder or officer of an organisation that has a relationship with ADNEC. Board diversity Percentage: Total board seats occupied by women

28%

0%

0%

14%

Not applicable

Percentage: Committee chairs occupied by women

0%

0%

0%

50%

Not applicable

100% 100% 100%

71%

Not applicable

Board independence ADNEC prohibit the CEO from serving as board chair. Total board seats occupied by Independents Board members performance evaluation and training Our Board of Directors is formed by ADQ. They appoint board chair and members and regularly review their performance. The evaluation process is done through ADQ to ensure objectivity and credibility. Any specific training for board members is provided through ADQ programs. Additionally, we do awareness sessions and tactical knowledge sharing for board members on an ad-hoc bases. Incentivised pay Our executives are not formally incentivised to perform on sustainability. Sustainability reporting ADNEC publishes its sustainability report annually. First issuance was in 2015 and according to GRI principles and guidelines. Our sustainability data are checked and verified by relevant departments and as per nature of KPIs/measures. Our sustainability data are not included in our regulatory filings.


055

Disclosure practices ADNEC used to issue its sustainability report following the GRI framework but since this issuance (year 2021), ADNEC started to follow the ESG reporting framework principles. Our framework is linked to UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) especially our value added, and nature of activities is so diverse and affect more than one sector. For example, our economic impact is directly linked to Goal #8 (Decent work and economic growth). Similarly, our portfolio of events is diverse and indirectly contribute to Goal #7 Affordable and Clean Energy and Goal #3 Good Health and Well Being and any others. We monitor our set of indicators and KPIs such as economic impact and energy consumption, but we don’t directly set targets and report on progress towards SDGs. External Assurance Our sustainability disclosures are not assured or validated by a third party. Reviewing ESG issues at board level They are reviewed through 4 different mechanisms: • ESG is an item on the agenda of Board of Directors meetings. Every time they meet, an update about ESG is presented to the board and discussed for board’s directions and approvals. • Annual review when issuing ADNEC sustainability report (GRI) which is now replaced with ESG report. ADNEC Leadership review and decide on GRI/ESG issues during this process. • Quarterly through the analysis and discussion of submitted quarterly strategy execution report. Ad-hoc; when needed.

Audit and Internal Control ADNEC has an independent Internal Audit function that improves performance and promotes accountability and transparency across the business through providing independent and objective assurance and advisory services. The department monitors and assesses ADNEC’s policies through its annual Internal audit plan and three-year internal audit strategy. ADNEC is committed to best practices in corporate governance and business ethics via annual benchmarks against UK’s Combined Code of Conduct and OECD Principles of Corporate Governance. Consequently, ADNEC has established a clear and comprehensive governance framework, documented in its Corporate Governance Approach, which is reviewed and improved on an annual basis. Key component of this governance framework is the establishment of ADNEC management committees as below:


056

ESG REPORT

l Audit Committee The Audit Committee monitors and reviews the annual financial statements, and considers whether they are complete, consistent with the information known to the Committee members, and comply with appropriate accounting principles and standards. The Committee also reviews the, status of compliance with the laws and regulatory requirements, the internal systems and controls, the adequacy of risk management process, the independence and qualifications of the Company’s auditors and the performance of the internal auditors of the Company and the compliance function. l Remuneration Committee The Remuneration Committee is a Board committee with delegated responsibilities to establish transparent policies and procedures for reviewing and determining the remuneration of the Board Executive Directors and Executive Management. This includes determining targets for performance-related pay and determining the total individual remuneration package of each of member of Executive Management including, where appropriate, salary, bonuses, pensions, incentive payments and share schemes (subject to the relevant approvals from ADQ). The Remuneration Committee shall also review the Company’s remuneration policy in general, including operation of any employee incentive scheme from time to time in force, general salary adjustments, changes in benefits, etc.

Compliance Reporting An internal compliance reporting system has been established to promote a “Speak Up” culture – that is reporting any Code violation concerns or raising questions regarding the practical scope or application of the Code requirements. Internal Audit conducts regular reviews and assess the implementation and adherence to the following: l Whistleblowing ADNEC has established an independent whistleblowing mechanism, through which all stakeholders and employees can raise concerns directly to an external independent third party, which treats the concerns confidentially. Issues raised are shared with the Head of Internal Audit and the Chief Human Capital Officer, who process them as per the documented compliance charter. A committee is formed consisting of Internal Audit, Human Capital, and Legal Affairs, where necessary, to steer the investigation.


057

l Fraud Control ADNEC’s Fraud Control Policy is designed to assist employees and stakeholders ensuring they have thorough and up-to-date policies and procedures and can mitigate the risk of fraud at ADNEC. The policy follows a zero-tolerance approach to fraud and takes immediate action against perpetrators. Every employee is asked to sign an annual declaration of compliance to the policy. l Code of Conduct and Business Ethics ADNEC has implemented a Code of Conduct and Business Ethics, which is reviewed annually. The framework ensures that ADNEC continues to uphold the highest standards of ethical behaviour in all business activities inside and outside UAE. Furthermore, there are numerous channels available for employees to report any suspected code violations. The current available channels include: § Employee Direct Line Manager § Employee Director § Any one of the following Compliance Representatives: w Head – Employee Relations w ADNEC Ethics Officer from within the Internal Audit Department w Head of Compliance & Risk w Legal Counsel If employees are uncomfortable reporting their concern to any of the above, or not satisfied with the outcome of their reporting of the concern, they can report through ADNEC’s 24/7 Hotline / whistle-blowing channel. Should an employee wish to remain anonymous, or wishes to discuss the issue with a person independent of ADNEC, they can also report their concerns via a hotline in the following ways: § Call the Whistle-blowing hotline - Free UAE phone number at 800 0320995 § Submit a web report by visiting www.adnec.ethicspoint.com § Both the website and the telephone options are available 24-hours-a-day, seven days a week. There is dual and simultaneous dissemination of the concerns received by NAVEX (a risk and compliance management software) to both the Ethics Officer (Internal Audit) and the Head – Employee Relations.


058

ESG REPORT

Enterprise Risk Management ADNEC has developed an Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) framework in compliance with ISO 31000 to establish an approach to identifying and managing key risks arising in the business in accordance with international best practices. The Board of Directors fulfils the role of a Risk Committee by approving the risk approach, setting the risk appetite and tolerance levels, reviewing key risks on a quarterly basis and reviewing the Annual Risk Management report. The Board is supported by the Audit Committee in this role. Within ADNEC’s ERM, routine risk assessment workshops are being undertaken to identify (amongst other risks) compliance risks. Further to this evaluation of control effectiveness is undertaken through Internal Audit processes.

Business Resilience Throughout the years, ADNEC has successfully built a robust business resilience framework which actively contributed to fast adaptation of the business when disrupted by the pandemic in 2020. Having this framework allowed us to build internal capabilities and procedures to maintain ADNEC’s business operations in case of any interruption. The following are examples of what our framework consists of: l Governance ADNEC has appointed its Group Chief Strategy and Financial Officer as the top management representative for its business continuity and information security management systems BCMS and ISMS, supported by a dedicated business continuity and information security manager. They liaise with ADNEC’s executive management to determine management system objectives, which drive a work plan and actions implemented with the support of their Business Resilience Champions. Progress and issues are reported to executive management as required, with a formal Management Review conducted each year. l Risk Management Both BCMS and ISMS integrate with ADNEC’s Enterprise Risk Management framework in order to ensure that risks are consistently identified, owned, assessed and treated. Risk treatment activities are coordinated across departments, actions are incorporated into the departmental work programmes and managed by Business Resilience Champions.


059

l Business Continuity Planning ADNEC maintains Business Continuity Plans in order to be able to continue to meet its stakeholders’ needs in the event of a disruption incident. Plans are developed at the departmental and organisational level to address a range of incident scenarios. l Awareness and Training ADNEC recognises that a well-informed and vigilant workforce are key to maintaining a resilient business. Besides developing a team of Business Resilience Champions across the organisation, appropriate training and awareness initiatives are delivered to all ADNEC personnel in order to help them prevent, identify and report potential and actual incidents. l Incident Management, Conformance and Continual Improvement Continual Improvement is core to a successful management system and also a resilient business. In this regard, ADNEC identifies areas of non-conformance from reported incidents, control and compliance checks and audits (internal and external). Root causes for non-conformance are identified and resultant improvement actions are managed through the Continual Improvement Framework. Below is a summary of our key measures 2018

2019

2020

Percentage of non- audit fees out of total audit fees

100%

0

18%

32%

*

Percentage of completion of “Conflict of Interest Declarations” by the Directors of the Board

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Percentage of completion of the “Conflict of Interest Declarations” by ADNEC employees.

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

Percentage of attendance of the members of the Board of Directors to the ADNEC Board meetings

82%

78%

100%

100%

100%

Percentage of attendance of the members of the Governance Committee (BoD sub-committees) to their meetings

100%

92%

92%

100%

100%

50%

33%

58%

79%

100%

Percentage of ADNEC key governance documents reviewed for annual update (DoA, Committees Charters, Governance Approach, Risk Management Approach, Code of Conduct, Whistle Blowing Policy, Fraud Control Policy, Business Continuity Approach, Project Management Approach, etc.).

2021 Target

*ADNEC is currently revising its calculation method for this measure. To be applied 2022 onward.


ESG REPORT

060

Privacy and Data Security ADNEC adopts international standards and has policies for privacy of customers and security of key data and information. ADNEC is ISO 27001 Certified and has all required Policy & procedures for Information Security. Also, ADNEC follows global data protection regulations GDPR. Relevant Policies are highlighted below: § Information Governance Policy § Information Security Policy § Privacy Policy. Continuously, ADNEC tests and evaluates the security of the company’s IT infrastructure to detect possible risks and vulnerabilities. The company conducted a vulnerability assessment and penetration testing VAPT in the year 2020-2021 in addition to ongoing internal monitoring by the Info Sec team. 2018

2019

2020

n/a

n/a

n/a

n/a

0

Number of actuals cyberattacks

0

0

1

1

0

Number of data breaches

0

0

0

0

0

Number of attempted cyberattacks

2021 Target

·

Number of attempted cyberattacks is not possible to capture with the current network and security infrastructure as this might be in thousands per day and only the ones that actually hit the network can be ascertained. There are numerous interfaces that could be attacked, and this is especially the case of historical data that has not been collected for reporting purposes.

·

2022 onward, the new perimeter security tools ADNEC is procuring (including enhanced endpoint protection) means that we should be able to start collecting meaningful data about the thousands of attempts that must be being rebuffed daily by our existing technology.

Transparency and Business Practices Prevention of Corruption ADNEC follows an Ethics and Anti-Corruption policy. The company has a Code of Conduct in place as well as Business Ethics. This is supported by an Anti-Bribery & Corruption Policy, a Conflict of Interest and Related Party Policy and a Whistle-blowing Policy.


061

Annually, our staff sign a declaration form of acknowledgement and compliance relating to this Code and other key Corporate Governance policies. The Human Capital Department requires new employees to sign the declaration form when they first join the organisation. They are briefed at induction and annual refresher training is given to all staff, prior to signing of the declaration. The Code is considered as an addendum to the employee’s Contract of Employment. Our definition of corruption is a dishonest action or abuse of one’s duties or power for private gain. Typical forms of corruption include giving or accepting bribes or inappropriate gifts, illegal gratuities, double-dealing, under-the-table transactions, economic extortion, and undisclosed Conflict of Interests. All our staff have formally certified their compliance with the policy.

Percentage of the workforce that have formally certified compliance with the anti-corruption policy.

2018

2019

2020

2021 Target

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

There were no confirmed incidents of corruption involving ADNEC in the last 4 years. There were no confirmed cases for dismissal or discipline of employee(s), or termination of contract with a business partner. 2018

2019

2020

2021 Target

Number of operations assessed for risk related to corruption

14

13

7

11

n/a

Percentage of operations assessed for risk related to corruption

52%

45%

24%

38%

100%

Number of corruption incidents

0

0

0

0

0

Total number of non-monetary sanctions

0

0

0

0

0

·

Historically, assessments of operations for risks related to corruption have been undertaken only as a component of the wider Internal Audit programme.

·

Following direction from ADAA and ADQ, ADNEC proposes that in 2022, a comprehensive Fraud Risk Assessment will be undertaken, with all subsidiaries and operations within scope of this exercise.


062

ESG REPORT

Prevention of Anti-Competitive Practices ADNEC follows a clear anti-competitive policy. As we mentioned above ADNEC has in place a Code of Conduct and Business Ethics. This is supported by Anti-Bribery & Corruption Policy, Conflict of Interest and Related Party Policy and a Whistle-blowing Policy. An anti-competitive clause is included in each employee’s contract. ADNEC works with a third-party whistleblowing company to allow employees to report any concern or violation in a confidential and secure way. Such a policy has been in place since 2009 with the facility to report concerns independently in place since 2014. There have been no reported instances of, or legal actions relating to this in recent years.

Reported instances of, or legal actions relating to anti-competitive practices

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

0

0

0

0

0

An email along with all updated polices is issued to all employees, and a copy of all relevant policies are available in the intranet. This is followed up and reinforced with Policy Awareness Workshops delivered by the Human Capital department. The awareness sessions explain all relevant fraud / bribery / conflict of interest policies and it allows employees to clarify any points and ask any relevant questions. Such sessions are usually conducted 1-2 times per year. Also, Human Capital department conducts specialised training sessions for staff on anti-competitive and anti-corruption. The Human Capital department requires new employees to sign a declaration form when they join the organisation addressing the anti-competitive and anti-corruption practices. They are briefed at induction and annual refresher training is given to all staff, prior to signing of the declaration. The Code is considered as an addendum to the employee’s Contract of Employment.

Percentage of workforce has formally certified its compliance with the anti-competitive (conflict of interest) policy.

2018

2019

2020

2021 Target

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%


063

Employment contract In the event of employment ending with ADNEC, employees are prohibited from soliciting, assisting in soliciting, or endeavouring to entice away from ADNEC the business or custom of existing clients for a period of 12 months. The restrictions also include: § The acceptance, or facilitation of acceptance, of any business deals or employment with UAE or GCC organisations that are in competition with ADNEC § The offer of employment, or enticement of employment, of any ADNEC employees to work for a UAE or GCC competitor organisation § The giving of advice to competing UAE or GCC organisations that may adversely impact the business activities of ADNEC. These restrictions also extend to employees acting not only on their own account but also acting on behalf of any other UAE organisation, or acting in partnership with any other person or persons. These restrictions apply whether employees act directly or indirectly with a competing UAE or GCC organisation.

Regional challenge: Nationalisation Nationalisation Being part of ADQ and as a state-owned enterprise; ADNEC is dedicated to sustainable growth and development of our UAE Nationals, preparing them to take on more responsibility and to become successful future stars. Throughout the last years, we have been working on further enhancement to our Human Capital initiatives and programs with special focus on Emiratisation.


064

ESG REPORT

Considering that we are in a sector that is considered relatively new to Emiratis; we have been successful in attracting and developing UAE nationals in sectors related to the events, catering, hospitality and tourism industries. We have been improving our existing initiatives and implementing a number of new specialised development programmes and activities aiming to maximise potential, support and retain our UAE National talent as summarised below. UAE National Development Programmes § Leadership Development Programme: UAE National employees have the opportunity to participate in a career path and coaching programme. This innovative programme measures ability, aspiration, motivation, engagement and potential. Individuals are provided with independent feedback and follow up mentoring support to ensure that bespoke learning solutions are provided to realise the employee’s full potential as a future leader. § Mentoring and Coaching Programme: our “buddy up” mentoring programme was launched in 2012 to specifically develop and support ADNEC’s UAE National talent. ADNEC’s mentors are all fully trained and encourage all our UAE Nationals to actively participate in this programme. Mentoring is an important facilitator in reinforcing personal development and ensuring people can be accountable for their own career paths. § ADNEC UAE National Forum: provides the opportunity for all UAE Nationals to attend a meeting with the Managing Director and ADNEC Leadership. This open forum provides an opportunity to exchange views on a wide range of topics and issues from our UAE National employees. It also provides a platform for exchanging and promoting ideas about how ADNEC can continue to improve and develop as a business. It is a learning opportunity for staff built around openness and transparency.


065

§ A Space to Perform@ExCeL London: the program was launched in 2009 and has been successful despite the fact we had to stop the program since late 2019 due to the pandemic. During the 10 year period of this program, it gave UAE National employees a massive opportunity to spend time at our owned venue in London and learn from adopted best practices and practical experience relevant to tourism and hospitality.

In conjunction with developing the UAE National employees, we also ensure the growth of our Emiratisation percentage among our full time (direct hire) staff. This percentage increased from approximately 50% in 2014 to 72% as of 2018 and subsequent years as per the below table. We are proud that 87% of our senior leadership team are UAE National employees. Emiratisation *

2018

2019

2020

2021

Target

Nationals among full time workforce (#)

134

131

123

119

124

Emiratisation (%)

72%

72.4%

72%

72%

72%

** among full time staff


VENUES

EXHIBITIONS

HOTELS

SERVICES

‫ﻛـــﺎﺑـﻴـﺘــــﺎل‬ ‫ﻟﻠـﻔﻌﺎﻟﻴـﺎت‬

TOURISM


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.