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Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
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alaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) is the national export promotion agency under the Ministry of International Trade & Industry of Malaysia. MATRADE serves to promote Malaysia’s external trade with particular emphasis on the export of value added manufactured and semi-manufactured products as well as various services sectors such as ICT, construction, healthcare, oil & gas, financial services etc.
UAE IS THE LARGEST TRADING PARTNER IN WEST ASIA Middle East countries are fast emerging as one of the top destinations of Malaysian exports. Major exports from Malaysia to the UAE include electrical and electronic goods, jewelry, vegetable oil, furniture, computer parts, building materials etc. In recent years Malaysia’s export focus has shifted to more high value added sectors such as aerospace, maritime, oil and gas and professional services sectors. Malaysian exporters are continuously enhancing their expertise in areas such as product development, design and packaging to meet the changing consumer market demand.
MATRADE Dubai regularly organizes a pavilion in all leading trade shows in the region. Besides, regular trade missions are organized to Malaysia to assist trade visitors and importers from this region in sourcing Malaysian products and services.
VISIT MALAYSIAN PAVILION IN: GITEX Technology Week 18-22 Oct 2015
The BIG 5 International Building & Construction Show 23-26 Nov 2015
Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (ADIPEC) 9-12 Nov 2015
Arab Health 25-28 Jan 2016
Gulfood
21-25 Feb 2016
Visit
Malaysia
Pavilion
30
Malaysian companies
@BIG 5
Date: 23-26 Nov 2015 Venue: Saeed Hall Arena Malaysia is ranked amongst the top 20 trading nations in the world, producing high quality world class products and services. Through MATRADE, with over 40 offices worldwide, we can link you to the best of Made-in-Malaysia.
Malaysia Trade Centre
c/o Consulate General of Malaysia P.O. Box 4598, Dubai - UAE | Fax: 04 335 2220 | Tel.: 04 335 5528/38 Email: dubai@matrade.gov.my | Web:www.matrade.gov.my
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CONTENTS
CONTENTS
Media One Tower, Dubai Media City PO Box 2331 Dubai, UAE T +971 4 427 3000 F +971 4 428 2261 motivatepublishing.com connect@motivate.ae editorial director
04
ABOUT THE UAE
08
UAE FROM A-Z
14
UAE’S WORLD-CLASS VENUES
26
GCC VENUES
Gina Johnson GroUp editor
Guido Duken
30
CASE STUDY
34
SHOW CALENDAR
38
HOTELS
pUblisher
Chris Capstick senior assiGnments editor
Ingrid Valles senior desiGner
Rouf Majid senior accoUnt manaGer
Bireshwar Mitra sales manaGer
Sydney Fernandes General manaGer – prodUction
40
HOTEL APARTMENTS
GENERAL DIRECTORY
Sunil Kumar prodUction manaGer
Murali Krishnan
42
3 YEAR 2015 - 16
ABOUT THE UAE
UAE: BUOYANT AND BOOMING There’s much the world can learn from the United Arab Emirates: dynamism, business friendly policies, infrastructure par excellence and above all, visionary leadership
S
ince its foundation, 2014 has been the strongest economic year for the UAE. GDP (Gross Domestic Product) increased more than 236-fold from $1.8 billion (AED6.5 billion) in 1971 to $420 billion (AED1,540 billion) in 2014, catapulting the country to the position of the second largest economy. Although global oil fortunes are on a decline, UAE’s economy continues to grow spurred on by three critical sectors: major non-oil investments; a buoyant trade and services sector and a booming tourism industry. Last year, the contribution of the non-oil sector to the national economy reached 68.6 percent of the constant-price GDP. Government spending and investment and increase in government and private capital amounted to $96 billion in 2014. The UAE’s exports in 2014 − inclusive of re-exports − reached $102 billion, while imports totalled $257 billion. Today, the UAE leads the Middle Eastern countries as the region’s largest trading partner with the world’s top 10 global economies. Production in the manufacturing industries reached $122 billion while production in the construction sector reached $80 billion in 2014. These statistics indicate that 2015 will be another year of strong economic growth as predicted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Government spending on infrastructure will drive growth, while the lower oil prices will boost the transport sector. This year, the nation will continue implementation of its long-term plan of moving to a knowledge-based economy, with a commitment to triple national spending on research and 4
development before 2021, and an increase in the number of workers in that sector from the current 22 percent to 40 percent of the workforce over the next six years. Being active and open, based on advanced infrastructure, sustainable knowledge and conscious diversification of resources has yielded a globally high rank for the country. The UAE’s income per capita is considered one of the highest in the world, so is its annual trade surplus. Additionally, the UAE provides high-quality educational, health and other services that make it a global destination for companies and job seekers, as well as a preferred investment destination.
GLOBAL RECOGNITION IMD, an international business school based in Switzerland, recently ranked UAE number eight in its World Competitiveness Yearbook 2014. The results are based on statistical indicators and surveys that spanned 60 economies. Survey respondents said that dynamism of the economy, business-friendly environment, government competency, reliable infrastructure and competitive tax regime were among the most attractive factors of the UAE. The UAE also retained its position of being the second most sought-after global market by international retailers according to global consultancy giant CBRE. Dubai was recognised as the second most preferred city by retailers for 2014. The emirate is the only Middle East city to be featured on the top 10 list. In 2012, the ‘Human Development World Report’ issued by the United Nations Development Programme ranked the UAE as the first among Arab countries. The economic freedom index, measured by Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Liberty, named the UAE first in ‘economic freedom’ in the Arab World and 27th globally. The UAE is also the only Arab country to be included in the ‘Global Economics driven by Innovation’ findings − the third and the most advanced stage of competitiveness in the ‘Global Competitiveness Report 2012—13’ released by the World Economic Forum. It ranked the UAE first among Arab countries and 24th out of 144 countries globally. Similarly, the UAE is ranked first among Arab countries, and 30th globally, in the ‘Competitive Industrial Performance Report 2012—13’. Further more, the UAE occupied first place globally on fiscal policy efficiency in the 2012 report issued by the International Institute for Administrative Development in Switzerland. New York-based Edelman Foundation have ranked the union first on government and economic confidence. According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, the UAE is the first emerging country to come in on top position on an economic index − an impressive performance indeed. The Deloitte Foundation predicts that the UAE will comfortably maintain its superiority among Arab countries for the next few years, while on the global stage it will surpass Italy and
Ireland thanks to industrial projects that boost its competitiveness. This index is based on the opinions of 550 chief executives and industry leaders at leading manufacturing companies.
GLOBAL ECONOMIC MODEL These reports evidence that the UAE is quickly becoming an outstanding economic model that offers a rich experience on how to make the most of both oil and non-oil based revenues to achieve economic and social objectives for high living standards, education and health services. The reports prove that desired economic progress and competing with developed countries on equal footing is possible if human, financial and natural resources are utilised properly. The UAE’s success also shows that rapid and proper implementation of infrastructure projects, government support to promising economic sectors and cutting out redtape lay the foundation for growth, competitiveness and sustainable development. As such, the UAE has become a leading example to other oil-producing countries in particular and the world in general.
EXPO 2020 In 2020, Dubai will become the first city in the MENASA region to host the internationally renowned World Expo. Expected to attract over 25 million visitors, the global exhibition will showcase spectacular exhibitions, pavilions and cultural events by international organisations, businesses and nations from around the world. Dubai is an obvious choice for an event of such a mega calibre. Home to over 200 nationalities, the emirate has always been a preferred meeting point for global leaders and businesses. Dubai International is the second busiest airport in the world. The emirate is already regarded as an ‘exhibition city’ with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) being recognised as the MENASA’s largest venue operator and event organizer. In 2013, 2.2 million trade delegates and attendees from over 130 countries visited 373 MICE and business events at DWTC. For the Expo 2020, Dubai has chosen the Dubai Trade Centre − Jebel Ali site in Dubai World Central’s exhibition district. Located on 438 hectares, the site is one of the largest ever earmarked for an Expo 5 YEAR 2015 - 16
ABOUT THE UAE
world fair. It will be 10 minutes from Jebel Ali Port and situated next to the new Dubai World Central Airport. Being equidistant between both Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s international airports, it will be connected to 300 global destinations every day. Dubai’s Expo 2020 event is sure to capture the imagination of the world and raise the bar for all future expos.
Business Tourism Home to 50 per cent of Fortune 500 companies, including approximately 70 per cent of the top 100 firms, the UAE is one of the most dynamic economies in the world − where the world prefers to do business. With each emirate establishing its own Free Zone and providing world class infrastructure and facilities, business is strongly encouraged and robustly supported in the country. Due to its strategic location, stable political and crime free environment, the UAE is globally recognised as a key destination for business tourism. Avant garde venues have also boosted the country’s status as a MICE destination.
Cultural Tourism The UAE’s tourism sector is expected to grow by 6.5 per cent annually between 2011 and 2021. Earlier this year, Dubai launched Vision 2021, which involves attracting 20 million visitors to Dubai. Though the country is a dynamic and modern one, it also has deep reverence for its rich heritage which the government determinedly preserves. Nearly 10 million tourists visited the UAE in 2012 and all were impressed by the country’s impressive blend of culture and rapid economic development. Reports show that cultural tourists spend more than ordinary tourists, making this sector a major contributor to national revenue.
Ecological Tourism Eco-tourism is a relatively new concept in the UAE but the country already has several initiatives in place to protect its deserts and reduce its over-all carbon footprint. The Kalba Eco Tourism Project in Sharjah, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Abu Dhabi’s Desert Island project that is spread across eight islands and Umm Al Quwain’s archipelagos are some of the projects that have been launched 6
in recent years and seek to strike a balance between protecting the environment while providing a luxurious holiday experience. In May this year, Dubai announced the establishment of six more nature reserves in the emirate. The six new wildlife sanctuaries are: Al Ghaf Conservation of Nazwa, Al Marmoum Desert Reserve, Al Wohoosh Desert Conservation Area, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, the Hatta Mountain Conservation Area and the Jabal Nazwa Conservation Area.
Sports Tourism The UAE is host to an enormous range of sporting events. Its superb infrastructure and world class sporting facilities are unparalleled anywhere in the region. The Dubai World Cup, Abu Dhabi Formula1™ Grand Prix, Omega Dubai Desert Classic golf championships and Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships are some of the most prestigious events the country hosts. This year the country hosted the ICC Twenty20 World Cup qualifying gala − an avidly watched tournament by cricket fans around the globe. 72 matches were played at four venues − the Dubai International Stadium, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Global Cricket Academy and the Zayed Cricket Stadium in Abu Dhabi, attracting global attention and cementing the country’s position as a dynamic sports destination.
UAE ESSENTIALS Getting Here The UAE is less than eight hours from Europe and the Far East State-of-the-art international airports in three emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. Dubai International ranks as the world’s second busiest airport. The new Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central in Jebel Ali is the latest addition to the emirate’s aviation capability Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah have plans to develop their existing airport facilities, bringing them up to international standards Extensive flight network, with the UAE serving as the regional aviation hub of most international carriers Budget carriers such as Sharjah-based Air Arabia and flydubai have made regional travel even more affordable
Accommodation The UAE offers a wide range of hotels and resorts with dining and entertainment facilities ranging from 5-star hotels to modest hotel apartments. Low-cost hotels for budget holidays Beach resorts providing water sports facilities Serviced hotel apartments for longer stays Mountain and desert resorts offering a wide range of outdoor activities
Dining and Entertainment Eclectic multicultural cuisine including establishments operated by Michelin- starred chefs. Vibrant nightlife with lounges and cafés staying open until late
Ground Handling Destination management companies provide multilingual guides, qualified drivers and comfortable vehicles that can cater comfortably to any group size.
An Arabian Adventure Camel & horse racing and falconry displays 4x4 desert safaris, dune and wadi (dry river beds) driving Exploring the Emirates’ souks, forts, museums and dhow quays Desert barbecue dinners with traditional entertainment
Sports A wide range of water sports including sailing, fishing, windsurfing, waterskiing, jet-skiing, scuba-diving and snorkelling Golf on championship-standard grass courses, in a variety of setting ranging from desert to ocean
Shopping Facilities Colossal shopping malls Duty-free shops at the country’s international airports Dedicated gold, textile and spice souks Discount stores and factory outlets
If your country of nationality appears on the list below, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa. Eligible countries: Australia, Andorra, Austria, Brunei, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Monaco, The Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Hungary, Latvia, Estonia, Malta, Cyprus, Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria and The Vatican.
Visas for Other Travellers Citizens of other countries should apply for visas to the UAE embassy All visitors to the UAE are required to have health insurance Only UAE nationals are allowed to sponsor visitors who are friends
Visa Fees Please check with the UAE embassy nearest you or contact your travel agency
Requirements for a Visa Application Clear passport copy of the sponsor Clear passport copy of the sponsored person Traveller insurance All photographs are to be recent colour photographs. Polaroid photographs are not acceptable Those who are already in the UAE may not obtain another entry permit until he/she departs from the country General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs-Dubai working hours are from 8am to 2pm Sunday to Thursday except public holidays On Fridays and Saturdays the offices are closed
ENTERING THE UAE
Important
The visa application procedures and requirements detailed below are for information only and are subject to change without prior notice.
For the latest visa information, please check with the UAE Embassy nearest you or contact your travel agency, tour operator or hotel. 7 YEAR 2015 - 16
UAE FROM A–Z
A to Z Dubai Guide
AlcOhOl Alcohol is available in licensed hotels and restaurants across the UAE, meaning visitors can enjoy a glass of wine with their meals. Licensing laws require venues serving alcohol to be attached to hotels or clubs. The legal drinking age is 21. Please note the emirate of Sharjah forbids alcohol completely.
BAnks Many international banks are represented by branches and provide the usual commercial banking services. Most banks operate a 8
six-day week and are open from 8am–1pm, Saturday to Thursday and closed on Friday. Exchange houses are open from 8:30am– 1pm and 4:30pm–8:30pm, Saturday to Thursday. Working hours on Friday are 4:30pm– 8:30pm.Most hotels also have foreign exchange services.
BUsinEss hOURs Business operating hours vary across the Emirates, although most adhere to a Friday– Saturday weekend. Working hours generally are 8am–5:30pm Sunday–Thursday, although some establishments work from 8am–1pm and
again from 4pm–7pm. Government offices are open from 7:30am–2:30pm. Government organisations, schools and many private companies are closed on Fridays and Saturdays, but some private companies close early on Thursday afternoon in addition to Friday. Shop hours are similar, but many remain open until 10pm. Department stores, boutiques, souks and many supermarkets remain open on a Friday, apart from prayer time (between 11:30am–1:30pm), while some shops open only on Friday afternoon at 4pm or 5pm. Embassies and consulates are generally open from 7:30am–2:30pm and are closed on Fridays, Saturdays and relevant public holidays.
Car Hire Self-drive cars are available from a range of local and internationally renowned car rental companies. Customers must produce their passport together with a valid driving licence. In Dubai only, visitors without an international driving licence may obtain a temporary local driving licence as long as they hold a valid national licence from one of the following countries: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Iran, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Slovakia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK and the USA. The passport, valid national licence and two photographs are required. Canadian nationals must obtain an affidavit from the Canadian Consulates in the UAE, verifying the licence before going to the Traffic Department. Remember driving in the UAE is on the right-hand side.
Credit Cards Major payment card brands including American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are generally accepted in hotels and shopping malls.
Climate The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate and blue skies can be expected most of the year. Rain is infrequent, falling mainly in winter.
Temperatures range according to season and in January can fall to a low 15°C/59°F and in July can rise to a high of 48°C/118°F.
CurrenCy The monetary unit is the dirham (Dhs/AED), which is divided into 100 fils. The dirham is linked to the Special Drawing Right of the International Monetary Fund and has been held constant against the US dollar since the end of 1980 at a mid-rate of approximately US$1= Dhs3.67.
dining The UAE’s hotels and shopping complexes offer a diverse range of restaurants, coffee shops and fast-food outlets. The standard of cuisine is exceptional. The cost of dining out varies considerably but generally, independent, unlicensed restaurants are less expensive compared with hotel dining establishments. Most independent restaurants are open throughout the day and offer a wide selection of local and international dishes. Independent restaurants do not serve alcohol.
dress Code The UAE is a cosmopolitan and tolerant country and all tourists are warmly welcome. Islam is the way of life in the emirate and as a sign of respect tourists are requested to adopt a certain level of cultural and religious sensitivity for the duration of their stay. While dress codes are fairly liberal, shoulder baring tops, short dresses and tight clothing is considered inappropriate. Swim wear should be limited only to beaches and pools; change into casual wear before leaving those areas. During Ramadan, a modest dress code is particularly important. Certain attractions, such as mosques or religious sites, 9 YEAR 2015 - 16
UAE FROM A–Z
usually have stricter dress codes, requiring both men and women to cover up bare shoulders, arms and legs, and women to wear headscarves. Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but sweaters, shawls and jackets may be needed during the winter months.
GETTING AROUND Metered taxis and public buses are easily available across the UAE. Dubai’s public transport network is especially intensive and includes the Dubai Metro, water buses and even ladies taxis. All the emirates offer car hire services too.
Geography The UAE is located on the north-eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered to the south and west by Saudi Arabia and to the north and east by Oman. The country has 700km of coastline, with 100km on the east on the Gulf of Oman, offering sandy beaches and clear blue waters, ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
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Greeting The acceptable male greeting on meeting a Gulf Arab is to stand up and shake hands. However, for a man to shake the hand of a Muslim woman (and vice versa) is, in most circumstances, considered unacceptable. Local women will usually not offer their hand to a man and will nod and smile instead and some local men prefer not to shake hands with women. If in doubt, wait until a hand is offered when meeting someone for the first time.
Hotels From luxurious properties such as Burj Al Arab and Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai and the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi to laid-back resorts and deluxe business hotels, the UAE has them all. The emirates’ premier hotels and resorts are equipped with conference, convention, meeting and banqueting facilities and a wide selection of celebrity-chef restaurants. Many hotels will also exchange money and travellers cheques at standard (non-competitive) rates.
Language The official language of the UAE is Arabic; English is widely spoken and understood, with both languages being commonly used in business and commerce. Hindi, Malayalam, Russian and Tagalog are extensively spoken too.
Medical Services The Health and Medical Services Department provides medical care for all UAE nationals, visitors and resident expatriates. The UAE has many well-equipped public and private hospitals offering high-quality health and dental care services. Emergency medical care in the country is free for everyone and there are no restrictions. For non-urgent healthcare, any UAE resident seeking treatment may register for a health card for which a fee is paid. New arrivals should register immediately for health cards otherwise the full cost of any medical treatment will be required after two visits.
newspapers and magazines are available in bookshops and major supermarkets.
Personal Conduct and Etiquette As is the norm across the world, rude and arrogant behaviour is unacceptable in the UAE and most restrictions are just common sense. Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited, the UAE takes a zero tolerance approach. Being drunk and disorderly in public is also unacceptable, and may result in a fine or imprisonment. Public displays of affection are not permitted – holding hands is acceptable but kissing and hugging in public is not. Noise disruptions, bad language, making obscene gestures and showing disrespect in any way to UAE’s religion or its leaders are all forbidden and subject to imprisonment. The following are also considered illegal in the UAE: use or possession of drugs, cohabitation/sex outside of marriage, having a baby out of wedlock, adultery and homosexuality.
Population The population of the UAE was estimated at close to 9.2 million in 2013.
Photography
Metro Launched in 2009, the Dubai Metro covers the length and breadth of the city with the 52km Red Line that runs from Rashidiya to Jebel Ali and the 23.9km Green Line that runs from Al Qusais to Jadaf. Fares are affordable, designed to encourage public transport use, although they vary depending on the cabin class (Silver for economy, Gold for premium) and length of your journey.
Newspapers Gulf News, Khaleej Times, The Emirates Post, The Gulf Today and The National are the daily English-language newspapers, while Arabic newspapers include Al-Bayan, Al-Emarat AlYoum, Al-Ittihad and Al-Khaleej. International
Careful consideration should be observed when taking photographs in public places and should not include members of the local population. If you want to photograph a person, ask for the individual’s permission before taking any images. To take photographs of Arab women is intrusive and should be avoided at all times. Photography of government buildings, military installations and private premises is not allowed.
Radio Arabic radio: Abu Dhabi FM 98.4MHz (Talk/ Classic Arabic Hits), Al Emarat FM 95.8MHz (Arabic/Emirati Hits), Quran Al Kareem 98.1MHz (Quran/Religious), Al Arabiya 99.0MHz (Contemporary Arabic), Al Khaleejia 100.9MHz (Khaleeji Music), Al Rabea FM 107.8MHz (Arabic Hits), Dubai FM 93.9MHz (Arabic Classic Hits), Umm Al Quwain 97.8MHz (Arabic Classic Hits), Radio Sawa 90.5MHz (Arabic and English Top 40), Star FM 92.4/99.9MHz (Arabic and English Top 40) and Hayat FM 95.6MHz 11 YEAR 2015 - 16
UAE FROM A–Z
English radio: Radio 1 (Dubai) 104.1MHz, 100.5MHz (Abu Dhabi) Top 40/Dance/R&B; Radio 2 99.3MHz (Dubai), 106.0MHz (Abu Dhabi) Classic Hits; Dubai 92 92.0MHz (Rock/ Contemporary); Channel 4FM 104.8MHz (Top 40); Dubai Eye 103.8MHz (News, Talk & Sports); The Coast 103.2MHz (Contemporary/ Easy); and Virgin Radio 104.4MHz (Top 40) Asian radio: City FM 101.6MHz (Contemporary Hits), Cool FM 94.7MHz (Bollywood Hits), Radio 4 89.1MHz, Suno FM 102.4MHz (Indian Hits), Radio Spice FM 105.4MHz, Josh FM97.8MHz
Religion Islam is the official religion and there are a large number of mosques throughout the UAE. However, other religions are equally respected; many churches representing various religious denominations are present in the country. During the Holy Month of Ramadan, business hours are reduced and eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is prohibited.
Shopping Opening hours are generally from 8am-9pm, Saturday to Thursday, while the larger shopping malls generally open from 10am until 10pm. On Fridays and during Ramadan, most shops are closed until 4pm. Bargaining is an accepted norm at the souks (markets) but not in supermarkets and shopping malls.
Sports A traditional pastime that has stood the test of time, falconry, shows the Bedouin’s relationship with nature. The ancient sport of camel racing also attracts a sizeable following with substantial purses for champions. Traditional water sports such as sea rowing, dhow sailing and the more recent wooden powerboat racing are regularly practiced off the UAE shores. The UAE is home to some incredible golf courses such as Abu Dhabi’s Yas Links Golf Course designed by Kyle Phillips; Dubai’s Emirates Golf Club, The Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, Arabian Ranches, Jumeirah Golf Estates, The Address Montgomerie, Ernie Els Club and Al Badia Club 12
and Ras Al Khaimah’s Tower Links Golf Club. The country is also home to events such as the world’s richest horse race – Dubai World Cup and Etihad Airways Formula 1™ Grand Prix.
Telecommunications Telecommunications are excellent and direct dialling is available to most countries in the world. Calls made within the same emirate, from a fixed telephone line to another, are free of charge. Fax and electronic mail facilities are widely available. Most local hotels provide guests with internet facilities at a nominal charge and there are many internet cafés situated across the city. Etisalat and du are the key telecommunication operators in the country.
Tipping Tipping practices are similar to those in most parts of the world. Where no service charge is included, a tip of 10 per cent is considered adequate and likely to be appreciated.
Traditional Dress The Arab national dress is designed in keeping with both high temperatures and religious beliefs of the region. Men wear an ankle-length, loose-fitting garment, known as a kandoura or dishdasha, which is usually made of white cotton, although darker, heavier materials may sometimes be seen in the winter. Women wear a long-sleeved, full-length dress, the jalabeya which is often elaborately embroidered in gold, silver or coloured thread. In public Arab women wear a black robe called the abaya. The hair is always covered. Some women also cover their face with a thin veil, known as gishwa.
Utilities electricity The electricity supply in the UAE is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles. US-made appliances may require a transformer.
Water Locally bottled and international mineral water is widely served in hotels and restaurants. It is advisable to avoid drinking tap water.
many world-first restaurants, Concourse A also features the world’s largest first and business class lounges. Dubai International connects with 239 destinations around the world. In the same year, Dubai Airports launched the first phase of passenger operations at Al Maktoum International- Dubai World Central. Tel: + 971 4 216 2525 dubaiairport.com
Weights and Measures Officially, the metric system is followed.
GettinG Here Airports The UAE has seven airports with Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah serving as the country’s primary aviation hubs. The country’s location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa give it easy accessibility from around the globe. Flying time from London is seven hours, Frankfurt – six, Hong Kong – eight, Cairo – four and New York – 13 hours. Most European capitals and other major cities have direct flights to the UAE, with many a choice of operator.
Abu Dhabi international Airport The gateway to the emirate of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi International is an award-winning facility that brings together over 40 airlines that fly to nearly 70 destinations worldwide. Abu Dhabi International is currently undergoing a Dhs25 billion (US$6.8million) redevelopment and expansion programme that is designed to increase the airport’s overall capacity to more than 20 million passengers annually. Tel: +971 2 505 5000 abudhabiairport.ae
Dubai international Airport The world’s second busiest airport, Dubai International, is a lifestyle destination in itself with its luxury hotel, excellent duty free shopping, spas and restaurants. Owned and operated by Dubai Airports, Dubai International made aviation history in January 2012 when it opened the world’s only dedicated and purpose-built Airbus A380 facility, Concourse A. Apart from a host of stellar services and
Al Maktoum international – Dubai World Central Located near Jebel Ali, this airport is projected to be the world’s largest passenger and cargo hub once fully completed. The airport, which is at the heart of the 140km Dubai World Central urban aviation community, will be capable of handling up to 120 million passengers annually.
sharjah international Airport Located 10km from the city centre, the airport has air connections to virtually every capital city in the world and receives 30 international airlines. The first low-cost airline in the Middle East, Air Arabia was launched in Sharjah in 2003 and now flies to more than 88 destinations. Tel: +971 6 558 1111 sharjahairport.ae
Fujairah international Airport Opened in 1987, the airport is used mainly by cargo carriers and private jet charters. It is the only international airport on the east coast and is emerging as a strategic entry and exit point for the country. Tel: +971 9 222 6222 fujairah-airport.com 13 YEAR 2015 - 16
UAE’S WORLD-CLASS VENUES
MAKE AN IMPRESSION For meetings that matter, choose venues that astound. And there is no dearth of these in UAE, the country of superlatives
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Abu DhAbi Named amongst the top 100 business global association meetings destinations by the International Congress and Convention Association’s (ICCA) 2012 global city rankings, Abu Dhabi is now ranked at par with other major meetings cities including such as Atlanta, Georgia, Brazil and Perth, Australia and higher than established global hubs such as Las Vegas in the US and Cologne in Germany. Abu Dhabi is making major strides on the international business events scene. At the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition (GIBTM) this year, the UAE’s capital was joined by 39 stake holders to present a portfolio of MICE venues like no other. Abu Dhabi also launched its online events resource abudhabievents.ae which will serve as a one-stop resource for event planners and organisers. Additionally, the Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau is a dedicated, one-stop entity which supports the growth of exhibitions, conferences, meetings and incentives within the emirate by forging closer links with the industry and providing a full range of support.
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Centre (ADNEC) has been recognised as the ‘Middle East’s Leading Exhibition and Convention Centre’ for the third consecutive year by World Travel Awards (WTA) Middle East 2013, the largest and most prestigious global travel awards platform. The award comes on the back of the Centre’s ongoing efforts to deliver world-class conference, events, meetings and exhibition (MICE) services including significant infrastructure upgrades over the past 12 months. In 2012, it won coveted industry distinctions such as the ‘Best Purpose Built Venue Award’ at the Middle East Events and the ‘Sheikh Khalifa Excellence Award’. Renowned for hosting high-profile, largescale exhibitions and smaller specialist shows, Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre draws more than 1.5 million visitors annually. With 12 state-of-the-art fully connected exhibition halls, 19 Capital Suites, Conference Halls, the Al Ma’ared Hall, a waterfront promenade and the recently opened International Convention Centre (ICC), it is the largest exhibition venue in the Middle East. The flexible, flat-floored
halls offer endless possibilities for all types of exhibitions and events. The Centre also boasts 60,000 sqm of outdoor space including a marina. These facilities are complemented by innovative conference and banqueting services. The new ICC Abu Dhabi has a fully flexible, tiered auditorium, seating up to 6,000 people with the 7,920 sqm space being able to host a range of meetings and events. adnec.ae
Al Ain Convention Centre The Al Ain Convention Centre has been the centrepiece of the garden city’s exhibition scene for many years now. Comprising two ballrooms and an auditorium, the Centre has hosted many diverse events ranging from weddings, conferences, exhibitions, poetry readings and even award ceremonies. The link area between the two halls serves as a registration area or food court. Al Ain Convention Centre is managed and operated by the ADNEC. adnec.ae
Armed Forces Club The regal Armed Forces Officers Club and Hotel impresses with its massive meeting and exhibition spaces, avant garde facilities and bespoke catering services. Whether you are hosting large events like entertainment shows and awards nights or more intimate meetings and conferences, the Club has the ideal venue for every occassion. Choose from over 20 inspiring indoor spaces including the massive Cinema Hall and the elegant Hafeet Terrace. Fringed with palm trees, the lush Club Garden is a magical outdoor venue for more relaxed events. State-of-the-art audio/video technology enhance the stunning venues while sumptuous menus from around the around add the perfect finishing touch. afoc.mil.ae
Cassells Ghantoot beach Resort This beach resort stands midway between the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai and is within 45 minutes of the international airports of each emirate. Cassells excels in contemporary Arabian hospitality and comes with an array of meeting venues and a variety of group activity and catering options. fivecontinentsgroup.com 15 YEAR 2015 - 16
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Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara For events with a touch of exoticism head to the Desert Islands Resort by Anantara. Set on the Bani Yas island, this is regarded as one of the most luxurious hospitality destinations in Abu Dhabi. Lying adjacent to the resort is the plush Conference Centre which comprises the elegant Dhabi Ballroom. Perfect for largescale events, the ballroom can accommodate over 500 guests. Venues within the hotel comprise a sophisticated boardroom and eight well-appointed meeting rooms. desertislands.anantara.com
Dusit Thani Abu Dhabi Drawing inspiration from Thai hospitality, Dusit Thani presents a fresh perspective to events and meetings. The hotel features the third tallest atrium in the world; a massive Sky Dome that incorporates stylish pre-function areas for upto 1,000 guests and a state-of-theart Conference Centre. Thai-themed breaks, massages, cultural performances and even a mega raffle prize make the Dusit a one-of-akind venue in the city. dusit.com
Emirates Palace Hotel Almost a national landmark, Emirates Palace Hotel is Abu Dhabi’s iconic luxury hotel. Spread over 1.3km of private white sandy beach and surrounded by 85 hectares of lush landscaping, Emirates Palace offers a world class award winning venue and the most flexible and technologically advanced conference expertise. The hotel’s facilities include an auditorium, a ballroom and over 40 meeting rooms including a media centre and business centre. Emirates Palace also boasts six large terraces and a variety of prefunction areas. Its spectacular outdoor venues can accommodate up to 20,000 people. The hotel’s award winning conferencing facilities are complemented by a team of attentive and professional staff and a wide and sumptuous range of culinary delights. The 394-room hotel is only a 30-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport and a 90-minute drive from Dubai International. emiratespalace.com 16
Jumeirah at Etihad Towers Named ‘Best Business Hotel in Abu Dhabi’ at the Business Traveller Middle East Awards and ‘World’s Leading Meetings & Conference Hotel’ at the World Travel Awards’, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers has played host to a number of extremely high profile conferences, such as the Global Vaccine Summit and the 13th Annual World Travel & Tourism Council Global Summit. The hotel offers private party event packages based on the themes of sea and water, where the events take place either above or besides the Arabian Gulf or in one of the hotel’s three swimming pools. Indoor spaces include the stunning Mezzoon Ballroom, which can host up to 1,400 guests; Oculus, the theatre style pre-function area; Conference centre featuring 13 meeting rooms and separate Chairman and Bridal Suite. jumeirah.com
Viceroy Hotels and Resorts – Yas Abu Dhabi The only hotel in Abu Dhabi to overlook the Yas Marina Formula 1™ Circuit, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi sets the standard for exceptional service throughout its 499 impeccable rooms and suites and 12 innovative dining venues and lounges. Combining exceptional meeting spaces with outstanding service, Yas Viceroy Abu Dhabi provides a singular venue for executive business meetings, distinguished conferences and exhibitions. The hotel offers six meeting rooms, four boardrooms, the grand Al Manaar Ballroom plus exotic outdoor spaces such as the Palm Garden and the rooftop Pool Deck. The latest technology and a technical concierge available on call will ensure that your meetings run seamlessly. theyashotel.com
Wadi Adventure The latest in Abu Dhabi’s MICE offerings, Wadi Adventure can host events for groups of five to five hundred. It offers planners four kinds of meeting rooms: the Summit, which can take 200 people theatre-style or 160 in a banquet format; and the Oasis hall, which can accommodate 100 people theatre-style, 60 in a banquet setting. Sunset hall can house up to 50 people; and Viewpoint can take 55. The
Summit venue can be split into three rooms, bringing versatility in event planning. Wadi’s spectacular mountain and water backdrop is perfect for the winter product launches or outdoor receptions. Follow-up your morning meeting with an exciting showcase of activities such as rafting, kayaking and zip line. Full catering facilities are available in addition to on-site restaurants such as Surf Cafe or Rafters Grill. A dedicated corporate sales and marketing team ensures a flawless event. wadiadventure.ae
professionals can tailor-make packages that fulfil client needs down to the smallest detail. Event spaces range from elegant boardrooms and discreet meeting rooms to the chic Armani ballroom. All venues have fully equipped communications and presentation systems. Outdoor events can be held at the lush Armani Pavilion set at the foot of the iconic Burj Khalifa. For an Arabic inspired seating, book the Majlis at the hotel’s lobby level. dubai.armanihotels.com
DUBAI
Boasting a spectacular location – the Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis presents one of the largest meet, eat and sleep facilities in the region. Over a dozen meeting rooms with flexible configurations, a variety of seating styles, bespoke dining options and Atlantis’ team of event organisers ensures that any conference, meeting or product launch is handled seamlessly. atlantisthepalm.com
Already recognised as a regional MICE leader, Dubai’s win of the Expo 2020 has cemented its position as one of the world’s top international exhibition and convention hubs. The city is definitely a force to be reckoned with.
Al Sahra Desert Resort The desert can be an amazing setting for an outdoor conference during the cooler months. Al Sahra’s amphitheatre is set within miles of undulating sand dunes and features an Arabian seating environment. The theatre can accommodate 1,200 people. Apart from a stunning venue, the resort offers unique team building activities such as pottery and silversmith workshops; nature walks; camel treks and even yoga sessions led by an experienced guru. jaresortshotels.com
Armani Hotel, Downtown Dubai Known for hosting events that exude style and sophistication, Armani Hotel combines impeccable service with innovative meeting solutions. The hotel’s dedicated team of event
Atlantis, The Palm
Burj Al Arab Dubai’s most iconic hotel, the magnificent Burj Al Arab has lavishly appointed banqueting venues including a ballroom, which are ideal for prestigious gala dinners, award ceremonies and corporate functions. Burj Al Arab has also been the preferred venue for international forums, business seminars and cultural events. The gold dome embellished Falak Ballroom is perfect for glamorous gala receptions and dinners while the Marina Garden is the ideal venue for al fresco events. jumeirah.com
Crowne Plaza – Dubai Festival City Recognised as a reputable meetings hotel brand for over 30 years, Crowne Plaza Hotels & Resorts guarantees a MICE experience like no other. Its signature meetings programme promises each client a dedicated event team headed by the Crowne Meetings Director, a two-hour response guarantee to fast track all queries, a daily meeting debrief that provides an itemised account of each day’s expenditures to help efficiently track costs and manage budget and a unique loyalty rewards programme. ihg.com 17 YEAR 2015 - 16
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Dubai World Trade Centre Established in 1979, the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) has been instrumental in establishing Dubai’s position as a global financial and commercial hub. DWTC has powered the events industry in Dubai for more than 30 years and has become renowned for the staging of mega-shows, exhibitions, trade fairs and congresses. DWTC’s multi-faceted expertise, infrastructure and facilities also enables it to stage smaller conferences, meetings, product launches, concerts and other live events, widening Dubai’s event related tourism offer – for both local and international audiences. Events held at DWTC are responsible for driving over 20 per cent of the economic value generated by Dubai’s entire tourism sector. Mainstays on the calendar include mega-shows such as Arab Health, Gulfood, GITEX Shopper, GITEX Technology, BIG 5, ATM and Intersec. 2.2 million trade delegates and attendees visited exhibitions centre last year – marking the first time the figure has crossed the 2 million milestone. DWTC hosted 373 meetings, incentives, conferencing, and exhibitions (MICE) and business events throughout 2013, up from 302 in the previous year. Exhibitors from more than 130 nations attended. Some mega-consumer shows attracted upwards of 100,000 people, such as GITEX Shopper, which also debuted a new Spring event. Additionally, Dubai World Trade Centre hosted several association and congresses in 2013 led by high-profile events such as Sibos, the premier forum for the international financial services sector and ITU Telecoms World. Dubai World Trade Centre also saw a 59 per cent growth across its calendar of entertainment and live events. An increased portfolio of 54 consumer facing events in 2013, drew more than 631,000 guests, and included the popular Dubai Sports World and the inaugural Dubai Music Week, both due to return in 2014, as well as a broad range of concerts with local, regional and international acts. The 39-storey landmark on Dubai’s skyscraper corridor of Sheikh Zayed Road includes the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), the Convention Tower office building, on-site accommodation 18
at the Novotel and Ibis hotels, serviced accommodation at the Dubai Trade Centre Hotel Apartments and the massive Sheikh Saeed Halls. Located within the new growth corridor in one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, DICEC is a 15-minute drive from Dubai International and a 30-minute drive from Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International which is currently being built. With its expansion, DICEC offers a million square feet of flexible and versatile exhibition space.
Dubai Association Centre The recently created Dubai Association Centre (DAC) is designed as an important gateway to Dubai’s rise to prominence as a MICE destination. The centre is a joint initiative of DWTC, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI), and Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing (DTCM). It offers professional associations, trade bodies and international non-profit organisations an easy process for setting up international or regional branch offices in the city. The centre’s establishment ties in with Dubai’s intention to become the most convenient and most effective destination for the meetings industry, in line with a strategy to cross-sell its commercial benefits and leisure attractions to business travellers. The DAC provides practical support, in the form of serviced office accommodation in Sheikh Rashid Tower and access to the networking facilities of the World Trade Club. Members also receive benefits such as the right to apply for residency visas for expat employees and to open local bank accounts. Licensing is through DCCI while the Dubai Convention and Events Bureau – an organisation under DTCM – provides marketing support and helps source endorsements for members’ events from government and industry figures, introductions to local industry and government contacts. The DAC also provides access to association management organisation MCI Middle East, which helps develop feasibility and business plans for associations expanding into the Middle East. The DAC will build on the city’s established reputation to become a base for decision-makers in an industry that is expanding rapidly both globally and within the region. dwtc.com
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Event Centre — Dubai Festival City The Event Centre at Dubai Festival City is a 3700 sqm state of art multi-purpose conference and exhibition centre, with two large ballrooms and an additional 8 meeting rooms, servicing anything from smaller VIP board meetings to large receptions for up to 1250 people. The Event Centre is physically connected to both InterContinental and Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City hotels, and acts as a shared meeting facility between them. These meeting facilities are extended to several outdoor venues around the hotel as well as to Al Badia Golf Club and concert venue. Al Badia is managed by InterContinental Dubai Festival City and located minutes away from the Event Centre. dubaifestivalcity.com
Grand Hyatt Dubai Close to the city’s financial and entertainment centres, the Grand Hyatt rests on the banks of the historic Dubai Creek. Equipped with ultramodern digital technology, the hotel offers more than 4,340 sqm of meeting and function facilities. Its two, high-ceilinged and pillar-free ballrooms are completely soundproof and are divisible into three sections. Each section has its own designated pre-function area. The hotel’s 11 multi-use meeting rooms range in size from 31 sqm to 91 sqm and include two executive boardrooms and a landscaped lawn for outdoor events, as well as a VIP room with a separate entrance to the convention centre and a state-of-the-art media room that provides integrated video conferencing. dubai.grand.hyatt.com
Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa Set on the golden shores of the Arabian Gulf, within 128 acres of stunning natural features, the award-winning five-star Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa combines exceptional leisure options with professional meeting facilities. Venue options range from small meeting rooms and a large-scale ballroom to leadership training sites and a sports academy. Furthermore, every occasion can be tailor-made to exact guest requirements and needs. Also on hand are a team of experienced event planners who are committed to assisting with the organisation, setup and flawless execution of 20
every event. When staying at the resort, guests may choose accommodation in the Jebel Ali Hotel or the luxurious Palm Tree Court & Spa, a member of ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’. jebelali-international.com
JW Marriott Marquis Named the ‘Leading MICE hotel in the Middle East’ by World Travel Awards 2014 and the ‘Best Business Hotel in Dubai’ and the ‘Overall Best Business Hotel in the Middle East’ by Business Traveller Middle East Awards 2014, JW Marriott is undoubtedly, the city’s leading convention hotel. Recognised as the world’s tallest hotel, it soars above the downtown Dubai’s business district – the Business Bay, and features more than 8,000 sqm of indoor and outdoor event space, including two ballrooms, and a large selection of world-class dining and entertainment options along with cutting-edge technology and intuitive services. Its facilities include a Business Centre and concierge with secretarial services, 28 meeting and 33 breakout rooms. JW’s Dubai Ballroom is the hotel’s largest meeting room with a space of 14,477 square feet and can seat upto 1,548 people. marriott.com
Madinat Jumeirah Beach Resort Drawing inspiration from an Arabian palace, Madinat Jumeirah offers clients an array of meeting venues such as the outdoor Fort Island Conference Centre; the magnificent Joharah Ballroom; the multipurpose Madinat Arena and the Madinat Souk Amphitheatre.
The Madinat Conference Hall is recognised as the region’s most comprehensive event facility – it houses a number of beautifully designed venues, including the Joharah and Murjaan ballrooms. Each venue is superbly equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual technology. Apart from inimitable conference facilities, the resort also offers guests two grand boutique hotels, 29 courtyard summer houses, a traditional souk with 75 boutique shops, the 26-treatment room Talise Spa, 44 world-class restaurants and bars, unlimited recreational facilities and the Quay Health Club. jumeirah.com
Novotel Dubai Al Barsha Awarded the ‘Best New Four-Star Hotel for 2013’, Novotel Al Barsha, operated by the Accor group is the latest addition to the city’s MICE destinations. Its nine function rooms are complemented by a bouquet of services such as cutting edge equipment, business centre with support staff, dedicated events teams and unique cuisine options which include Creole and Cajun menus. novotel.com
Oasis Beach Tower For meetings with a view look no further than the luxurious Oasis Beach Tower. Rising above the Jumeirah Beach, each of the tower’s meeting rooms offer breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Sporting innovative and contemporary design, these distinctive rooms are suitable for both conferences and meetings of various sizes. Each space has its own break out area along with a pre-function area that can accommodate up to 100 delegates. The five meeting rooms – Reeh (Wind), Hawa (Air), Maa’ (Water), Ardh (Earth) and Nar (Fire) – all benefit from stunning natural daylight due to their exceptional position within the tower. The tower also has unique sun lobbies that are equipped with couches, tables, and wireless LAN access and internet stations, making them ideal for informal meetings. jebelali-international.com
Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Located within one of Dubai’s most popular attractions, Sheraton Mall of the Emirates
lets event planners mix business and leisure memorably. Its nine meeting rooms are spread over 850 sqm, each with its own private coffee station area. Facilities include high speed internet, LCD projectors and state-of-the-art AV systems. sheratondubaimalloftheemirates.com
The Address, Downtown Dubai Flanked by the iconic Burj Khalifa and the colossal Dubai Mall, The Address – Downtown Dubai stands in the most prestigious square mile in Dubai. The 196-room property has 634 sqm of elegantly appointed meeting venues that include two magnificent ballrooms, a boardroom and two meeting rooms. The Symphony ballroom is adorned with unique themed lighting schemes, Arabic patterns and elegant wood panelling. Divisible into three smaller, soundproof sections, it features ceiling -to-floor glass windows, offering stellar views of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. Each venue comes complete with cutting-edge audio-visual and IT equipment, and is serviced by a team of exceptionally helpful professionals who are on hand to assist with all aspects of a successful event. theaddress.com
Rixos The Palm Dubai The latest hospitality venture to open its doors on The Palm Jumeirah, Rixos specialises in combining superb meeting venues with impeccable services. The resort has both indoor and outdoor venues serviced by dedicated events teams and the latest in conferencing technology. rixos.com
Rose Rayhaan by Rotana Dubai At a soaring 333 metres and 72 storeys, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana sets a new benchmark for comfort and style. Centrally located on Sheikh Zayed Road and a mere 3 minutes away from the DIFC metro station, the property has 8 meeting rooms,spread over two floors, that can accommodate 12 to 60 guests in a boardroom setting and 75 to 150 delegates theatre-style. A business centre with secretarial support is also available. rotana.com 21 YEAR 2015 - 16
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Zayed University Convention Centre Five-star facilities at extremely affordable rates is the USP of the Zayed University Convention Centre. Located at the Dubai Campus in Academic City, the venue is within easy access of Dubai, Sharjah, and Al Ain. The Convention Centre features an auditorium of 522 seats with built-in simultaneous translation booths, making this the ideal location for international conferences; a Multipurpose Room, which is equipped with dual projection and plasma screens – this is a versatile venue of 452 sqm; eight dedicated conference and breakout rooms, all with built in projectors and screens; two rooms with video conferencing features; majlis, dining, press and prayer rooms; and a pre-function area on the lower and upper levels, ideal for coffee breaks and exhibitions. zu.ac.ae/conventioncenter
Al Ghurair Arjaan and Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana The Rotana group offers business guests the choice of two luxurious hospitality offerings in Deira, Dubai’s thriving business and commercial district. The rooms and suites at each hotel are furnished with luxurious amenities and modern facilities such as high-speed wireless internet, IDD telephone with voice mail, and multichannel satellite television. Al Ghurair Rayhaan presents ample meeting facilities in the form of a majestic ballroom and six spacious meeting rooms, supported by efficient multilingual staff and state-of-the-art equipment. The Rayhaan hotel also offers guests four multi-cuisine F&B outlets as well as the awardwinning flagship spa concept – Zen the Spa at Rotana. All of Rayhaan’s facilities are open to guests at the Al Ghurair Arjaan by Rotana. Both hotels are connected to the Connected to the historic Al Ghurair Shopping Centre. rotana.com
SHARJAH With the demand for Shariah-compliant MICE facilities on the rise, Sharjah has emerged as a leading contender in this sector. Named as the Capital of Islamic Culture for 2014, businesses are increasingly radiating towards the emirate for its meeting facilities that embrace 22
Islamic culture and comply with Islamic law. Recognised as a regional meeting hub for Islamic groups, many more meeting planners are now looking at Sharjah – a destination that has all of the credentials required to host a Shariah-compliant event. Sharjah already appeals to a global community of Islamic business travellers, especially those from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait, as well as the UAE’s corporate community.
Al Qasba Al Qasba has become the premier tourism, cultural, business and entertainment landmark within the Emirate of Sharjah. Occupying an area of 10,000 acres, its most distinctive features are its one kilometre-long manmade canal and the 60-metre high observation wheel, the Etisalat-Eye of the Emirates. It also features the state-of-the-art Masrah Al Qasba, a 300-seat theatre, which hosts a plethora of events, including artistic, musical, film, theatrical and poetry performances, as well as conferences and summits, on a regular basis. Al Qasba’s Maraya Art Centre is an important venue for arts in the region. Spread across three floors, Maraya Art Center hosts a range of exhibitions, cultural events and educational activities. Built to complete Al Qasba’s vision of becoming an unrivalled business and leisure destination in the UAE, Multaqa Al Qasba is a state-of-the-art meeting and conference facility that offers high quality business services. The 300 square meter venue features the latest in technical support and with several attractive conference spaces. Al Qasba also has a Business Centre that caters to the requirements of corporate travellers. With a full range of modern facilities and staff committed to service excellence, the Business Centre prides itself on maintaining the very highest professional standards. Its offices are designed with a special focus on state-of-the-art technology, and each facility is comfortably furnished and positioned to facilitate a variety of conference needs. qaq.ae
Expo Centre Sharjah Expo Centre Sharjah (ECS), which was established nearly three-and-a-half decades ago as the first exhibition facility in the UAE, is
built-in floor ducts and trenches ensuring easy access to utilities. With a total exhibition area of 42,000 sqm, the facility has more than 16,000 sqm of tiled outdoor exhibition space and onsite parking slots for 1,600 vehicles. expo-centre.ae
Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre (JRCC)
the region’s leading trade exhibition venue and a geographic as well as financial landmark for the Emirate of Sharjah and the country. Over the years, apart from hosting and organising some highly focused B2B and B2C shows, ECS has played a key role in prominently placing Sharjah as one of the top 10 business cities in the Gulf region and the UAE on the global exhibitions map. Strategically located and spread across 128,000 sqm, ECS provides high-tech facilities and professional services to the exhibitions industry. The centre piece of a planned Expo City in Sharjah, ECS is the exhibition wing of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry. A sister establishment, Expo Khor Fakkan, has become operational in early 2012. ECS, which can boast of global reach and outlook, is the member of several key international industry associations and has tie-ups with regional and global exhibition organisers and venues. The visually striking and architecturally superior Expo Centre is one of the most technically advanced exhibition, conference and event complexes within the Middle East and the most user-friendly venue with flexible space that can be configured to suit most needs. It is also eco-friendly, with its own sophisticated waste-water treatment and decentralised air-conditioning systems. Bordering Sharjah’s Al Khalid lagoon, the complex is the only exhibition venue in the region fronting the sea, making it ideal for marine-related events. Expo Centre Sharjah offers trade exhibitors all their requirements on site, such as wireless data, internet and telephone connectivity throughout the complex and an extensive network of
A five-star reception and convention centre, JRCC is is an affiliate of Sharjah Ladies Club and a semi-government establishment founded by the wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, HH Sheikha Jawaher Bint Mohammed Al Qasimi. Conveniently located in front of Sharjah International Airport, it has a variety of halls equipped for all kinds of events like business conferences, kick-off meetings, teambuilding activities, product launches, exhibitions, fashion shows, road shows, recognition events, private functions, gala dinners, and all other types of trade and commercial events. The JRCC halls are set on an area of over 5,500 sqft that can accommodate up to 3,000 people in exhibition style or can be divided into smaller halls as needed. More than 1,000 parking spaces are available at the centre. Providing A-Z event solutions, Al Jawaher can arrange for catering, light and sound system, LED screens and event planners as well. The centre also provides other facilities that include foyers, cloak rooms, entertainment rooms, majlis and many more. JRCC has formally signed a partnership contract with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to provide Catering Services for all events on an exclusive basis. jrcc.ae
AJMAN The smallest of the seven emirates, Ajman has a charm that the UAE’s bigger and busier cities lack. In addition to being an ideal leisure destination, Ajman is the perfect venue for executive retreats, meetings and conferences.
Kempinski Hotel One of the emirate’s leading meetings and events venues, Kempinski’s range of meeting spaces are eclectic. The grand ballroom is perfect for gatherings of 1,000 and above. The ballroom’s massive entrance lets clients make 23 YEAR 2015 - 16
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an impactful entrance – they can drive straight into it! Kempinski’s more intimate meeting and boardrooms are ideal for seminars and group incentive meetings. Additional break out rooms are also available and the business centre provides complete secretarial services. kempinski-ajman.com
The Ajman Palace The luxurious Palace hotel is renowned for its magnificent meeting spaces complemented with a bouquet of full concierge services, dedicated event planners and bespoke catering. Its Grand Ballroom is the biggest in the Northern Emirates and is attached to a grand foyer for pre-event gatherings and two expansive outdoor terraces. Other venues include a Conference Hall; 4 private meeting rooms and a VIP Majlis room. theajmanpalace.com
RAS AL KHAIMAH Ras Al Khaimah is proving to be one of the UAE’s rising MICE destinations where tradition and culture meld seamlessly with contemporary meeting and conference venues.
Marjan Island Resort and Spa The newly opened Marjan resort is changing the way meetings and conferences are conducted in the emirate. The palatial resort stands on the man-made Marjan Island, creating a unique setting for MICE ventures. Featuring a majestic ballroom that overlooks the Arabian Gulf; three meeting rooms, a fully serviced business centre and seafront outdoor venues, Al Marjan is the perfect destination for business conferences, cultural gatherings and even sports events. Al Marjan is an alcohol-free resort. marjanislandresort.com
Ras Al Khaimah Exhibition Centre The busiest exhibition centre in the emirate, Ras Al Khaimah Centre stages many trade, education and business events. Spanning 37,400 sqm, it is located in the Al Nakheel Area and comprises a major exhibition hall with a covered area of 2,100 sqm and more than 3,000 sqm of outdoor space. Additionally, the Centre has an Exhibition Complex with separate and multiple entrances for both. The 24
facility also has a car park for more than 1,000 vehicles. A small mosque is located next to the Exhibition Hall. The centre provides sales and secretarial services on request. A fax and email facilities area is available at the administrative office, where qualified staff is on call to assist exhibitors with their requirements. rakexpo.ae
The Cove Rotana Resort – Ras Al Khaimah Located on an idyllic water inlet on the Ras Al Khaimah beachfront overlooking the Arabian Gulf with 600m of pristine beach, the Cove Rotana Resort is a unique combination of traditional charm and modern opulence. Guests can choose from three state-of-the-art meeting rooms that are fully equipped with the latest audio-visual equipment and IT facilities. The venues, which can accommodate up to 120 delegates, are ideal for small – and mid-sized groups. The resort offers quality accommodation to business and leisure travellers. The resort has an exclusive leisure and fitness centre. rotana.com
Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah Conduct your event in inimitable style at the legendary Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah. The landmark destination offers an extensive range of sophisticated venues, both indoors and outdoors, throughout the resort. Each of the spacious meeting rooms contains stateof-the-art audio-visual equipment and has plentiful natural light. The hotel’s boardroom is designed to host smaller meetings for five to 20 people. The hotel features a VIP arrival hall and multiple pre-function spaces, making
it a spectacular venue for weddings, galas and high end corporate events. The emirate’s Banyan Tree Resorts, the Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach and Al Hamra Village, all offer state-of-the-art venues, cutting edge technology, efficient and reliable services and bespoke dining options for a wide range of events. waldorfastoria3.hilton.com
FUJAIRAH With its beautiful coastline, palm-fringed coastal plain and historical landmarks, Fujairah is rapidly developing into one of the UAE’s business and leisure tourism centres.
Al Diar Siji Hotel Enjoying a prime position in the heart of Fujairah city, Al DiarSiji Hotel has close proximity to the emirate’s business hubs. The hotel is only a five-minute drive from Fujairah International Airport. It is close to the Fujairah Trade and Exhibition Centre, shops and banks, and within walking distance of most of the tourist attractions. The hotel redefines the art of organising business conferences and other events with the refurbishing of its more than 100-seater, world-class theatre-cum-auditorium. In addition to its first-class room amenities and facilities, the hotel also has a ballroom and fully equipped business centre with private board rooms. aldiarhotels.com
Concorde Hotel Fujairah The elegant Concorde hotel has a variety of banquet and meeting rooms that can cater to groups from as small as ten to 900. Interconnecting rooms, tailor-made service and state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment ensure every event requirement is met and even exceeded. The meeting rooms also have their own pre-function areas. concordefujairah.com
Fujairah Exhibition Centre Managed by the Fujairah Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture, this exhibition hub is strategically located between Fujairah International Airport and Fujairah Trade Centre on one side and the seaport and free zone on the other. Providing 1,080 sqm
of indoor floor space, the Fujairah Exhibition Centre is equipped with the latest technology requirements of today’s trade fairs. The facility has three main halls in addition to 2,520 sqm of outdoor exhibition space. fujairahexhibitioncenter.com
Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Nestled between the Hajar Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort is Fujairah’s most panoramic resort. Within easy reach of the area’s unique attractions including amazing dive sites, palm groves, ancient fjords, hot springs and historical landmarks; the resort is just a 90-minute drive from Dubai city and 50km from Fujairah City. Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort has a well-equipped business centre with the latest audio visual equipment staffed by multi-lingual professionals committed to making each event a success. The hotel offers a range of conference and banqueting rooms including the spectacular Hajar ballroom which caters to large conferencing and banqueting requirements. The resort also has an outdoor stage and events area for up to 1,000 guests. lemeridien.com/fujairah
UMM AL QUWAIN Mangrove-lined shores, fascinating wildlife and an atmosphere brimming with serenity, the quaint emirate of Umm Al Quwain is a travelers delight.
Barracuda Beach Resort Offering a wide range of accommodation from one-bedroom suites to superior deluxe cabanas, Barracuda is a popular choice for team building exercises. The resort has its own golf-lawn, pool and even a barbecue park by the beach. barracuda.ae
Flamingo Beach Resort Team building and employee-motivational activities are best organised at the Flamingo Beach Resort. The property boasts its own private beach and lush landscaped gardens. Guests can indulge in various activities such as crab hunting, mangrove boating, snorkelling and barbecue dinners. flamingoresort.ae 25 YEAR 2015 - 16
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THE REGION’S FINEST The Gulf region is arguably the world’s fastest growing and at the epicentre of booming trade and business routes. If you are looking for a MICE destination that combines the exclusive venues, state-of-the-art facilities and elegant hospitality, this is the place for your next conference or exhibition
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ver the past decade, the Gulf has gained increased significance in the MICE industry and is showing steady growth. The MICE sector has become an important generator of income for the GCC’s six member states – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Today, the MICE sector represents a key driver to these countries economic development. The annual MICE Arabia Congress is a strong indicator of the importance of the GCC’s MICE sector. The Congress provides a unique, business driven environment using pre-scheduled 1-1 business meetings and educational sessions that are strictly limited to upper-level executives. The invitation-only event is designed for executives and specialists who are involved in deciding and hosting corporate events such as road shows, conferences, meetings, incentives and events for their organisations.
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BAHRAIN An archipelago of 33 islands, the Government of Bahrain was named as the seventh most financially efficient on the planet by The World Economic Forum while the World Bank proclaimed it as the second best country in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) to do business in its current annual report.
Bahrain International Convention Centre The Bahrain International Exhibition & Conference Centre (BIECC) operated by the Bahrain Exhibition & Convention Authority (BECA) is the largest convention centre in Bahrain. BECA enjoys representation in a number of prestigious global MICE forums such as the Union des Foires Internationales (France), International Congress & Convention Association (Netherlands) and Association of Event Venues (UK). Located only five minutes away from Manama’s bustling financial district, and close to all major hotels, as well as five retail and entertainment centres, BIECC is a state-ofthe-art exhibition complex with just under 16,000 sqm of space including a column-free conference centre. The 8,000 sqm pillar-free exhibition facility is designed to accommodate large-scale exhibitions and trade fairs and also offers extensive outdoor space. A second hall offers 6,000 sqm of additional columnfree space in addition to nine meeting rooms. The on-site convention centre (including two
VIP Majlis’) provides 1,400 sqm of dedicated meeting space, which can be divided into four separate rooms. bahrainexhibitions.com
Bahrain International Circuit Home to the Formula Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, the Bahrain International Circuit is another renowned MICE venue. It encompasses dedicated conference, meeting and event space capable of handling between 10 and 10,000 guests. Event planners looking for action packed team activities can opt for the corporate driving package which offers both on-track and off-road driving experiences. bahraingp.com
KUWAIT Nestled at the top of the Arabian Gulf, Kuwait is an oil-rich country flanked by Saudi Arabia to the south, Iraq to the north and Iran to the east.
Kuwait International Fair The country’s first and largest exhibition centre – the Kuwait International Fair (KIF) – was established in 1971. A member of Union des Fories Internationales (UFI) since 1983 and the Arab Union for Exhibitions & Conferences since 1998, KIF has a reputation for holding highly popular consumer events as well as respected specialized trade shows and fairs. Apart from hosting events, KIF also offers value-packed marketing methods to promote exhibitions as well as advertising. KIF has six fully air-conditioned exhibition halls that offer the capability to host any kind of promotional event, from major trade shows and expos to product launches and seminars. The centrepiece of the facility is Hall 8, an ultra-modern 7,000 sqm complex with a striking exterior that is visible for miles around. Hall 8 houses a vast exhibition hall and a luxurious VIP lounge and reception area. Its 200-seat theatre, featuring the latest audio-visual aids, is perfect for the seminar programs that often run alongside major expos. The on-site KIF Business Centre offers full secretarial and office support services while refreshments are provided at a modern cafeteria centrally located within the vast complex. Kuwait International Fair’s physical capabilities are only exceeded by the
unrivalled level of care and customer service. The professional staff of Kuwait International Fair is dedicated to handle the unique demands of client’s special event, from the initial planning stages through the event’s completion. kif.net
SULTANATE OF OMAN The Sultanate of Oman shares its borders with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to the north-west, the Republic of Yemen to the south-west and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the west.
Oman International Exhibition Centre Oman International Exhibition Centre is the sole, state owned organization that is equipped to hold large scale exhibitions and trade fairs. Attracting thousands of visitors every year, the centre has been the main venue in Oman for various exhibitions and fairs since its inception in 1985. The centre comprises over 15,000 sqm of flexible meeting space. The Golden Tulip hotel is adjacent to the exhibition centre. omanexhibitions.com
Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre Due to open its doors in 2016, the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre (OCEC) is set to become an iconic MICE venue for the country. Located just 10 minutes away from the new Muscat International Airport, OCEC has been designed as a world class facility perfectly suited to host international, regional and national conventions, exhibitions and business events. OCEC will feature a tiered auditorium capable of accommodating up to 3,200 guests, fitted with advanced projection and riggings, orchestra pit and acoustic systems. It will also offer 14 sleek meeting rooms and over 22,000 sqm of exhibition space. The exhibition halls can be divided into five separate halls each with its own dedicated registration desk, hospitality suites and separate offices for both the Organiser and Event Manager. OCEC’s Grand and Junior Ballrooms are ideal for seminar and gala banquets. OCEC will include four hotels with a total of 1,000 rooms, a 192,000 sqm shopping mall, 200 serviced apartments and 85,000 sqm of grade-A office space. omanconvention.com 27 YEAR 2015 - 16
ABOUT THE UAE
QATAR Set on a peninsula that juts north into the Arabian Gulf, Qatar has emerged as one of the richest countries in the region due to large reserves of oil and gas. The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) 2012 Country and City Rankings reveal that Doha has strengthened its ranking among the world’s most popular convention destinations. The city moved up by 49 positions to share the 111th position with Florence, Riga and San Juan, in a list of more than 360 participating cities in the MICE sector.
Qatar National Convention Centre At the forefront of the country’s MICE industry is the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), situated in Doha. The QNCC is an unparalleled convention facility, boasting iconic design and cutting edge facilities, first of its kind being built to the gold certification of US Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environment Design (LEED). With an exhibition space of 40,000 m2, 52 meeting rooms, a conference hall to hold 4,000 delegates, the QNCC provides a venue of choice for regional and international conventions, exhibitions, gala events, concerts, theatrical productions and banquets. qatarconvention.com
Doha Exhibition Center Doha Exhibition Centre was established in 2007. It is spread over a huge area covering 15,000 sqm. Bringing buyers and exhibitors together for many years, the Doha Exhibition Centre is the most complete business display platform for many leading industries. The Exhibition centre organises many Trade shows, Food festivals, seminars, Jewellery and Watch exhibitions every year apart from the International Book Fairs. The Doha Exhibition Centre is presently the city’s largest meeting and exhibition venue with the capacity to host six events simultaneously. Its central location makes its easily accessible from the airport and is in close vicinity to many of the city’s luxury hotels.
SAUDI ARABIA The world’s leading oil producer and exporter, Saudi Arabia is the largest country in the Middle East. It has emerged from being an 28
underdeveloped desert kingdom to become one of the wealthiest nations in the Middle East region. According to the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities figures, the Kingdom hosts more than 92,000 events for a combined 4.7 million delegates per year.
Riyadh International Exhibition Centre The Riyadh International Exhibition Centre, owned and run by the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce & Industry, is the Kingdom’s best known exhibition complex. It consists of four halls offering 15,000 sqm of indoor exhibition space in addition to a 5,000 sqm outdoor area, a 1,100 seat auditorium with ancillary facilities, ample car parking with a capacity of 1,500 cars and buses, a conference hall, support services, a VIP reception lounge, business and press centres, restaurants and cafeterias, and an organiser’s office. The facility can provide 10,000 sqm of air-conditioned exhibition space for 10,000 people. ricec.com.sa
Jeddah Centre for Forums & Events Established in 1990, the Jeddah Centre for Forums & Events developed and is owned by the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI). This modern exhibition complex is conveniently located just minutes from Jeddah’s main business centre, banks, government offices, shopping malls and major hotels. The centre boasts 10,000 sqm of exhibition spaces, cafeterias and rest rooms and a fully equipped communications and business centre. acexpos.com
Dhahran International Exhibitions Centre Located in Dammam, the DIEC was established in 1985 and since then has hosted a variety of trade shows covering diverse industries such as oil, construction, food, medicine, plastics, banking, real estate and education amongst many others. It offers 8,500 sqm of indoor exhibition area, and 12,300 sqm of outdoor space area. Facilities include two interconnected halls, a multipurpose hall, VIP lounge, business center and catering services. diec.com
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29 YEAR 2015 - 16
CASE STUDY
Organising An Event in Dubai Dubai has world-class facilities and numerous expert event companies that will have you up and running in no time
O
rganising exhibitions and events in Dubai are easy as with world class production teams, venues and suppliers you can be sure that you will be in safe hands. However, there are some local nuances that any event organiser should be aware of, whether you are organising a festival, exhibition, conference or small meeting.
30
VENUE Dubai has a plethora of different venues on offer, both indoor and outdoor that cater for every occasion. For larger events Dubai World Trade Centre or the Madinat Jumeirah Arena are the most popular; for outdoor events it is Dubai Media City Amphitheatre or Meydan. Be warned, however, if you do go
for an outdoor venue April to September is very hot (particularly for overseas visitors). There is also a small chance of rain during the winter months (November to March). There are also quirky venues such as the A4 space at Alerskal Avenue popping up across town, which are great if you are looking for something a little different. There are currently more than 625 hotels offering more than 85,000 hotel rooms. Current estimates show that by the end of 2016 an additional 20,000 to 30,000 more rooms will be added. For a comprehensive guide to venues visit: visitdubai.com/en/ parsedhotels/venues-directory
LICENSES Before you book a venue, particularly if you are an overseas company or have a free zone license, check with the venue or your DMC (Destination Management Company) what licenses you will require. For instance, any event at the Madinat Jumeirah which includes exhibition stands requires approval and a license from DTCM (for a nominal fee) epermits.dtcm.gov.ae. Depending on the
location of the venue, sometimes licenses can only be granted to a company that has an on-shore trade license (however there are always ways around this, eg. a local partner or Destination Management Company, for instance, but get this clarified at the beginning). Also, depending on the nature of the event, DTCM may request up to 10 per cent of the revenues from ticket sales. If you have entertainment at your event, such as a DJ or band, and people have paid a ticket price – check what government charges may be due. In addition to DTCM licenses, it is also vital to get CID approval on all temporary structures that are part of staging the event. Often your exhibition contractor can take care of this. Some venues also require you to apply for a liquor license for the event. The minimum legal age of drinking in the UAE is 21 and only applicable to non-Muslims. Dubai is constantly working to make it easier for event organisers to plan events in Dubai. That is why it is imperative to always check with the venue and the DTCM for the latest legislation and guidelines! 31 YEAR 2015 - 16
CASE STUDY
It is often advisable to use a DMC as they will be able to make recommendations and advise you.
TRAVEL Dubai is incredibly well-connected globally and has two airports with more than 7,000 flights a week. Abu Dhabi airport is also just an hour’s drive from many areas in Dubai.
PICKING A DATE First things first, it is important to remember that the weekends in Dubai are Friday and Saturday. Islamic holidays’ exact dates are subject to moon sighting and may differ from dates published. For more information and approximate dates visit: timeanddate.com/ holidays/united-arab-emirates/ During some Islamic holidays, no public places are allowed to serve alcohol from 6pm the evening prior until 8pm the following day (depending on sunrise and sunset times). This includes events venues (even if the event is private), so it is important to take this into account when planning events for the international community. The peak season for events is October through to April, during which time prices are generally higher.
PICKING CONTRACTORS There are multiple and diversified contractors in Dubai to fulfil all your event needs, however they can be of very different standards so a few pointers to check for: Have they got the correct trade licenses to work in Dubai and at your venue of choice? Are they insured to work in Dubai? Can they provide you with references for a least two events that they have worked on within the past year? Do they own their own kit, and if not where are they sourcing it from? How long has the company been in established in Dubai? 32
Public Transport: Dubai is heavily reliant on taxis and in the last year Uber and Careem have become increasingly popular. However, in addition to the taxis, there is also the state-of-the-art Dubai Metro (which goes directly from the airport) and the ever-growing bus network.
SUPPORT FOR EVENT ORGANISERS The Dubai Bid Alliance, chaired by Dubai Business Events, provides professional organisers and conference managers a unique bid package that includes incentives, specific discounts, pre-negotiated rates, and harmonised terms and conditions from Dubai stakeholders. For more information visit: visitdubai.com/en/event-planning_ new/why-dubai/top-10-reasons#sthash. yhaz4mZA.dpuf
SAFETY Rated by Interpol as one of the safest cities in the world, Dubai offers a crime-free and politically stable environment, which ensures that overseas visitors will have an enjoyable and stress free trip. Delegates also have access to state-of-the-art health facilities and paramedics in hotels.
VISAS FOR OVERSEAS VISITORS Citizens of 39 countries can receive their visa on arrival at the airport. For people requiring visas, these can be applied for by your hotel, airline or an organisation based in the UAE. For more information visit: visitdubai.com /en/travel-planning/travel-tools/visa-andentry-information
USEFUL POINTS OF REFERNCE FOR EVENT ORGANISERS DTCM (Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing) visitdubai.com/en/department-oftourism_new ILEA The International Live Event Association ilea-me.com Dubai Calendar dubaicalendar.ae for a list of most of the events taking place in the Dubai.
Emma Farmer is the Festival Director of Dubai Lynx, the leading Festival for Creativity in the MENA region. For more information visit: dubailynx.com
33 YEAR 2015 - 16
CALENDAR
Show CalendaR YEAR 2015 -16 ABU DHABI EXHIBITIONS 2015-16 Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre Chic Lady Show 1 – 4 September, 2015 Gulf Plastics & Polymer Show 6 – 9 September, 2015 Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition 9 – 11 September, 2015 Eid-Al-Adha Exhibition 10 – 20 September, 2015 Arab Carpet Expo 1 – 3 October, 2015 Power Gen Middle East 4 – 6 October, 2015 Seatrade Offshore Marine & Workboats 5 – 7 October, 2015 Arab Health Recruitment & Training Fair 18 – 20 October, 2015 World Halal Travel Summit 19 – 21 October, 2015 Taweya 2015 20 – 22 October, 2015 34
Breakbulk Middle East 25 – 28 October, 2015 Najah 2015 27 – 29 October, 2015 International Real Estate & Investment Show 28 – 31 October, 2015 The Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (ADIPEC) 9 – 12 November, 2015 Abu Dhabi International Flower & Garden Exhibition (ZUHOOR) 2015 1 – 4 December, 2015
Al Ain Autumn 2015 25 November – 19 December, 2015
DUBAI EXHIBITIONS 2015-16 Location: Dubai World Trade Centre Ramadan Night Market 2 – 11 July, 2015 Modesh World 9 July – 29 August, 2015 Cityscape Exhibition & Conference 8 – 10 September, 2015
IOF Regionals 3rd Middle East & Africa Osteoporosis Meeting 5 – 7 December, 2015
Materials Handling 14 – 16 September, 2015
PVPC Expo Middle East 15 – 17 December, 2015
Paper Arabia 14 – 16 September, 2015
World Future Energy Summit 18 – 21 January, 2016
Gulf Sol 14 – 16 September, 2015
Eco Waste 18 – 21 January, 2016
Gulf Glass 14 – 16 September, 2015
Location: Al Ain Convention Centre
The Training & Development Show 15 – 19 September, 2015
Arabex – 3rd Arabian Style Exhibition 1 – 6 September, 2015
The Hotel Show 28 – 30 September, 2015
The Leisure Show 28 – 30 September, 2015
Gitex Technology Week 2015 18 – 22 October, 2015
Gitex Shopper 2015 3 – 10 October, 2015
Infocomm 19 – 22 October, 2015
Patients Safety Exhibition & Conference 4 – 6 October, 2015
Sweets & Snacks Middle East 27 – 29 October, 2015
International Trade Fair for Plants (IPM) 5 – 7 October, 2015
The Specialty Food Festival 27 – 29 October, 2015 Gulfood Manufacturing 27 – 29 October, 2015
World of Perishables (WOP) 5 – 7 October, 2015
Light Middle East Exhibition 2 – 4 November, 2015
MENA Mining Congress 6 – 7 October, 2015
Clean Middle East Pulire 2 – 4 November, 2015
International Medical Travel Exhibition & Conference (IMTEC) 7 – 8 October, 2015
Gulf Car Wash & Gulf Laundrex 2 – 4 November, 2015
International Textile Fair – Autumn 11 – 12 October, 2015
Dubai International Character & Licensing Fair 3 – 4 November, 2015 Dubai World Game Expo 3 – 4 November, 2015
Dubai International Motor Show 10 – 14 November, 2015 The Big 4 / Big 5 PMV / Middle East Concrete 23 – 24 November, 2015 SMAP Expo 2 – 4 December, 2015 The Mother, Baby & Child Show 2 – 4 December, 2015 Gulf Traffic Exhibition 7 – 9 December, 2015 Vision X Dubai – Optical & Opthalmic Exhibition & Conference 7 – 9 December, 2015 China Products Fair 8 – 10 December, 2015 Dubai International Jewellery Week 9 – 12 December, 2015
35 YEAR 2015 - 16
CALENDAR
International Autumn Trade Fair 15 – 17 December, 2015
SHARJAH EXHIBITIONS 2015-16 Location: Sharjah Expo Centre
India Property Show 17 – 19 December, 2015
Mideast Watch & Jewellery Show 6 – 10 October, 2015
Sign & Graphic Imaging Middle East 10 – 12 January, 2016 Intersec 2016 17 – 19 January, 2016 Gulfood 2016 21 – 25 February, 2016 The 11th IECM Conference & Exhibition 21 – 23 March, 2016 Gitex Shopper 2016 (Spring) 30 March – 2 April, 2016
Steelfab 17 – 20 January, 2016 International Education Show 10 – 12 February. 2016 National Career Exhibition 10 – 12 February, 2016
Sharjah International Book Fair 4 – 14 November, 2015
Plastivision Arabia 22 – 25 February, 2016
Acres Middle East 25 – 28 November, 2015
Print Pack Arabia 22 – 25 February, 2016
Chic Lady 26 – 29 November, 2015
Turkish Country 1 – 11 March, 2016
Kitchen Equipment Middle East 8 – 10 December, 2015
Mideast Watch & Jewellery Show 2 – 9 April, 2016
Halal Middle East 8 – 10 December, 2015
Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival 20 – 30 April, 2016 Ramadan & Eid Exhibition 6 June – 5 July, 2016
RAS-AL-KHAIMAH EXHIBITIONS 2015-16 Location: Ras-Al-Khaimah Exhibition Centre Eid-Al-Adha Exhibition 2 – 22 September, 2015 Beauty & Health Exhibition 6 – 10 October, 2015 Arabian Markets Exhibition 28 October – 8 November, 2015 RAK Internartional Festival 26 November, 2015 – 16 January, 2016 36
37 YEAR 2015 - 16
HOTELS AND HOTEL APARTMENTS
HOTELS AND HOTEL APARTMENTS HOTEL Abu DHAbi Al Diar Palm Suites Hotel aldiarhotels.com Al Raha Beach Hotel alrahabeach.danathotels.com Beach Rotana Hotel and Towers, Abu Dhabi rotana.com/rotanahotel andresorts
Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort sheratonabudhabihotel.com
Ascot Hotel ascothoteldubai.com
AJMAN
Avari Dubai Hotel avari.com/property/avari-dubai
Kempinski Hotel Ajman kempinski.com/ajman Ramada Hotel and Suites Ajman ramadaajman.com
Crown Plaza Abu Dhabi ihg.com
DubAi
Danat Resort Jabel Dana jebeldhanna.danathotels.com
Atlantis, The Palm atlantisthepalm.com
Emirates Palace kempinski.com/abudhabi
Al Bustan Rotana Hotel rotana.com/albustanrotana
Hilton, Abu Dhabi hilton.com
Al Ghurair Rayhaan by Rotana rotana.com/ alghurairrayhaanbyrotana
Hilton Baynunah hilton.com InterContinental Abu Dhabi intercontinental.com Le MĂŠridien Abu Dhabi lemeridienabudhabi.com Le Royal MĂŠridien Abu Dhabi leroyalmeridienabudhabi.com Millennium Hotel Abu Dhabi millenniumhotels.ae/ millenniumabudhabi
Al Jawhara Gardens jawhara.ae Al Khaleej Palace Hotel alkhaleejpalace.net Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa al-maha.com Al Manzil Hotel al-manzil-hotel-dubai.com
Ascott Park Place the-ascott.com
Burj Al Arab jumeirah.com Bur Juman Rotana Suites rotana.com/ burjumanarjaanbyrotana Capitol Hotel capitol-hotel.com Carlton Tower Hotel carltontower.net Copthorne Hotel Dubai millenniumhotels.ae/ copthornehoteldubai Coral Deira Hotel coral-deira.com Coral Oriental Hotel coral-orientaldubai.com Courtyard by Marriot Green Community, Dubai marriott.com Crowne Plaza Hotel Dubai crowneplaza.com
Al Murooj Rotana Hotel rotana.com/almuroojrotana
Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City crowneplaza.com
Novotel Abu Dhabi Gate novotel.com
Al Qasr Hotel jumeirah.com
Dar Al Masyaf Hotel jumeirah.com
Shangri La Hotel shangri-la.com/abudhabi
Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa arabiancourtyard.com
Delmon Hotel delmonhotel.ae
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Dhow Palace Hotel grandexcelsiorburdubai.com
Hyatt Regency Dubai dubai.regency.hyatt.com
Metropolitan Palace Hotel metropolitan-palacedubai.com
Dubai International Hotel dubaiintlhotels.com
Ibis World Trade Centre Hotel ibishotel.com
Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa dxbmarine.com
Intercontinental Dubai Festival City intercontinental.com/dubai
Millennium Airport Hotel millenniumhotels.ae/ millenniumdubai
Dusit Thani Dubai dusit.com
Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa jebelali-international.com
Mövenpick Hotel Bur Dubai moevenpick-hotels.com
Emirates Concorde Hotel emiratesconcorde.com
Jumeirah Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa jumeirah.com
Moscow Hotel moscowhoteldubai.com
Emirates Stars Hotel emiratesstars.ae Fairmont Hotel fairmont.com/dubai Flora Grand Hotel florahospitality.com Four Point by Sheraton Bur Dubai fourpointsburdubai.com Four Point by Sheraton Downtown Dubai fourpointsdowntowndubai.com Golden Tulip Al Barsha goldentulipalbarsha.com Grand Hyatt dubai.grand.hyatt.com Grand Millennium Dubai millenniumhotels.ae/ grandmillenniumdubai Grosvenor House West Marine Beach grosvenorhouse-dubai.com Habtoor Grand Resort and Spa habtoorhotels.com Hallmark Hotel hallmarkhotel.com Hatta Fort Hotel jaresortshotels.com Holiday Inn Downtown ihg.com/holidayinn Hilton Dubai Creek hilton.com/dubai Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort hilton.com/jumeirah Holiday Inn – Al Barsha hialbarshadubai.com
Jumeirah Beach Hotel jumeirah.com Jumeirah Emirates Towers jumeirah.com Jumeirah Rotana Hotel Dubai rotana.com JW Marriot Hotel marriott.com Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates kempinski.com/dubai
Mina A’Salam Hotel jumeirah.com
Novotel World Trade Centre novotel.com Oasis Beach Hotel jebelali-international.com One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai royalmirage. oneandonlyresorts.com Qamardeen Hotel qamardeenhotel.com Park Hyatt dubai.park.hyatt.com Premier Inn global.premierinn.com
Le Méridien Dubai lemeridien-dubai.com
Raffles Dubai raffles.com/dubai
Le Méridien Fairway lemeridien.com/fairway
Radisson SAS, Deira Creek radissonblu.com
Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina lemeridien-minaseyahi.com
Radisson SAS Dubai Media City radissonblu.com
Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort and Spa leroyalmeridien-dubai.com
Ramada Hotel Dubai ramadadubai.com
Lotus Boutique Hotel lotus-hospitality.com Lotus Hotel lotus-hospitality.com Majestic Hotel Tower Dubai dubaimajestic.com Marco Polo Hotel marcopolohotel.net Media Rotana – Barsha, Dubai rotana.com/mediarotana Metropolitan Deira Hotel metropolitandeira. habtoorhotels.com
Ramee Royal Hotel rameehotels.com Regent Palace Hotel, Dubai regentpalacehotel.co.uk/dubai.asp Riviera Hotel rivierahotel-dubai.com Royal Ascot Hotel royalascothotel-dubai.com Seaview Hotel seaviewhoteldubai.com Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai shangri-la.com/dubai/shangrila Sheraton Deira Hotel & Towers sheratondeiradubai.com 39 YEAR 2015 - 16
HOTELS AND HOTEL APARTMENTS
Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort and Tower sheratonjumeirahbeach.com
Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resorts and Spa hilton.com
Suites Novotel suitenovotel.com
Khatt Springs Hotel and Spa goldentulipkhattsprings.com
Taj Palace Hotel Dubai tajhotels.com
The Cove rotana.com/ thecoverotanaresort
The Address, Downtown theaddress.com
HOTEL APARTMENTS ABU DHABI Al Diar Palm Suites Hotel aldiarhotels.com Al Jawhara Hotel Apartment jawhara.ae Al Maha Rotana Suites rotana.com
SHARJAH
Al Manzel Hotel Apartments almanzel-hotelapartments.ae
Al Bustan Beach Hotel albustangroup.com
Al Rawda Rotana Suites rotana.com
Beach Hotel mhgroupsharjah.com
Asfar Hotel Apartments asfarhotels.com
The Palace Hotel theaddress.com
Coral Beach Resort Hotel coral-beachresortsharjah.com
Cassells Hotel Apartment cassellshotelapartments.ae
The Ritz–Carlton Dubai Hotel ritzcarlton.com
Golden Tulip Sharjah goldentulipsharjah.com
City Season Hotel Apartments cityseasonsgroup.com
The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi westinminaseyahi.com
Hotel Holiday International holidayinternational.com
Euro Hotel Apartments Tel: +971 2 6413111
Towers Rotana Hotel rotana.com/towersrotana
Lou’s Lou’s Beach Resort loulouabeach.com
Golden Tulip Dalma Suites goldentulipdalmasuites.com
Traders Hotel shangri-la.com/dubai/traders
Marbella Resort Sharjah marbellaresort.com
Hilton Baynunah Hotel hilton.com
FUJAIRAH
Hilton Sharjah hilton.com
Hilton Corniche Apartments hilton.com
Al Diar Siji Hotel aldiarhotels.com/aldiarsijihotel
Radisson Blu Resort radissonblu.com
Ivory Hotel Apartments ivoryhotelapts.ae
Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa rotana.com
Royal Crown royalcrownhotelshj.com
Liwa Hotel Apartments liwahotelapartments.com
Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort miramaralaqah.com
Sharjah Rotana Hotel rotana.com
Mourouj Hotel Apartments mouroujhospitality.com
Sharjah Grand Hotel sharjahgrand.com
Platinum Residence phauae.com
UMM AL QUIWAIN
Rainbow Hotel Apartments rainbowhotelapartments abudhabi.roomswhiz.com
Barracuda Beach Resort barracuda.ae
Ramee Hotel Apartments rameehotels.com
Flamingo Beach Resort flamingoresort.ae
Ramee Garden Hotel Apartments rameehotels.com
Palma Beach Hotel and Resort palmagroup.ae
Ramee Guestline Hotel Apartments 1 – Abu Dhabi rameehotels.com
Umm Al Quwain Beach Hotel uaqbeachotel.com
Sahara Hotel Apartments saharahotelapartments.com
The Country Club Hotel countryclubdubai.com The H Hotel h-hotel.com The Montgomerie Hotel themontgomerie.com
Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach lemeridien-alaqah.com Royal Beach – Al Farqeet Hotel and Resort royalbeach.ae
RAS AL KHAIMAH Bin Majid Beach Hotel binmajid.com Hilton Al Hamra Beach and Golf Resort alhamrabeachandgolfresort. hilton.com 40
The Eclipse Boutique Apartments eclipsesuites.com
Intercontinental Residence Suites, Dubai Festival residencesuites. intercontinental.com
DUBAI
Landmark Suites Landmarkhotels.net
Al Bustan Residence Hotel Apartments al-bustan.com
Le MĂŠridien Furnished Villas lemeridien.com
Al Faris Hotel Apartments alfarisdubai.com
Lotus Grand Hotel Apartment lotus-hospitality.com
Al Ghurair Arjaan by Rotana rotana.com
Marriott Executive Apartment Dubai Creek marriott.com
Al Murooj Rotana Suites rotana.com
Millennium Hotel Apartments millenniumhotels.com
Al Sondos Suites by Le MĂŠridien starwoodhotels.com
Number One Tower Suites numberonetower.com
BurJuman Arjaan, Dubai rotana.com Capitol Residence capitoldubai.com
Oasis Court Hotel Apartments oasiscourt.com Oaks Liwa Heights Dubai oakshotelsresorts.com
Chelsea Tower Hotel Apartments crimsonhotels.com
Pearl Residence Hotel Apartments pearlresidence.com
City Season Suites cityseasonsgroup.com
Ramee Hotel Apartments rameehotels.com
Coral Deira coral-international.com
Rihab Rotana Suites rotana.com
Deira Suites Hotel Apartment Deirasuites.com
Rimal Rotana Suites rotana.com
Emirates Concorde Residence emiratesconcorde.com
Rolla Residence rollaresidence.com
Flora Creek Hotel Apartments florahospitality.com
Savoy Crest Hotel Apartment savoydubai.com
Flora Park Hotel Apartment florahospitality.com
Savoy Park Hotel Apartment savoydubai.com
Golden Sands goldensandsdubai.com
Shangri-La Hotel Apartments shangri-la.com
Grand Hyatt Hotel Apartments dubai.grand.hyatt.com
Star Metro Deira Deluxe Hotel Apartments etastarhospitality.com
Grand Midwest Hotel Apartments grandmidwest.com Hotel Ibis Deira City Centre accorhotels.com Imperial Residence Hotel Apartments imperialsuiteshotel.com
The Radisson Blu Residence, Dubai Marina radissonblu.com Tulip Hotel Apartments tulipha.com Villa Rotana Suites rotana.com Wafi Residence wafi.com/wafi-residence Winchester Grand Hotel Apartments winchest.com Xclusive Hotel Apartments xclusivehoteldubai.com
ShArjAh Al Ferdous Residence Tel: +971 6 5645111 Al Jawharah Furnished Suites jawhara.ae Al Majara Residence Tel : +971 6 5655558 Al Salam Palace alsalampalace.ae Al Sharq Hotel sharqhotel.com Al Buhaira Residence basmaa.com Dana Furnished Rooms Tel: +971 6 5631338 Dunes Hotel Apartments dunesdubai.com Jawharat Al Ghuwair Tel: +971 6 5616767 Al Gaddah Hotel Suite algaddahhotel.com Hala Furnished Apartments Tel: +971 6 5647555 Monaco Hotel Tel: +971 6 5681122
Taj Palace Hotel Dubai tajhotels.com
Pan Gulf Hotel Apartments Tel: +971 6 5728811
Tamani Hotel Marina tamanimarina.ae
Al Mamzar Hotel Tel: +971 6 5686111
The Galleria Residence thegalleria.hyatt.com
Samaya Hotel Apartments Tel: +971 6 5302000 41 YEAR 2015 - 16
DIRECTORY
DIRECTORY EmERGEnCY PhOnE numbERS Abu DhAbI
ShARjAh
Fire 02-997 Police 02-999 Ambulance 02-998 Electricity Abu Dhabi 02-991 Electricity Al Ain 03-991 Water Abu Dhabi 02-991 Water Al Ain 03-991 Traffic Abu Dhabi, Al Ain 800-3333 02-4461461 Police Abu Dhabi Police Al Ain 03-7638888
Fire Police Ambulance Electricity, Water, Gas Traffic: Sharjah Police General Directorate Police Headquarters
DubAI Fire Police Ambulance Electricity and Water Traffic Dubai Police operations room
04-997 04-999 04-998 04-991 800-7777 04-6095555
EmbASSIES In Abu DhAbI (+971 2) Afghanistan, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Tel: 447 2666 afghanembassy-uae.com Australia, Embassy of Tel: 401 7500 uae.embassy.gov.au Albania, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 658 2505 albanianembassyuae.com Angola, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 447 7042 adangola.ae Algeria, Embassy of Democratic and Popular Republic of Tel: 444 7068 algeria.mwasala.com Argentina, Embassy of Republic of Tel: 443 6838 42
06-997 06-999 06-998 06-991 06-5943032 06-5633333
AjmAn Fire Police Ambulance Electricity and Water Traffic
06-997 06-999 06-998 06-7111111 06-7439999
umm Al QuwAIn Fire Police Ambulance
06-997 06-999 06-998
Armenia, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 444 4196 uae.mfa.am/en Austria, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 694 4999 bmeia.gv.at Azerbaijan, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 666 2848 azembassy.ae Bahrain, Embassy of the Kingdom of Tel: 665 7500 Bangladesh, Embassy of the People’s Republic of Tel: 446 4733 bdembassyuae.org Belarus, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 445 3399 Belgium, Embassy of Tel: 631 9449 diplomatie.belgium.be
Electricity and Water Traffic Police
06-7665333 06-7670707 06-7656677
RAS Al KhAImAh Fire Police Ambulance Electricity and Water Traffic Police
07-997 07-999 07-998 07-2288444 07-2356666 07-2356666
FujAIRAh Fire Police Ambulance Electricity and Water Traffic Police
09-997 09-999 09-998 09-2222226 09-2229884 09-2224411
Benin, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 639 4665 beninembassy.ae Bosnia & Herzegovina, Embassy of Tel: 644 4164 bhmc.ae Brazil, Embassy of Tel: 632 7727 abudhabi.itamaraty.gov.br Brunei Darussalam, Embassy of Tel: 448 6999 Canada, Embassy of Tel: 694 0300 canadainternational.gc.ca/ uae-eau Chili, Embassy of the Tel: 447 2022 chile-uae.com China, Embassy of the People’s Republic of Tel: 443 4276 ae.china-embassy.org
Cyprus, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 665 4480 Czech Republic, Embassy of the Tel: 678 2800 mzv.cz/abudhabi Denmark, Royal Danish Embassy Tel: 441 0104 fae.um.dk Djibouti, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 633 0161 Dominican Republic, Embassy of Tel: 658 0788 drembassyuae.com Egypt, Embassy of the Arab Republic of Tel: 444 5566 Eritrea, Embassy of the State of Tel: 633 1838 Finland, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 632 8927 finland.ae France, Embassy of Tel: 813 1000 ambafrance-eau.org Gambia, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 643 3955 Germany, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Tel: 644 6693 abu-dhabi.diplo.de Guinea, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 673 5551 Hellenic, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 449 2550 hellenicemb.ae Hungarian Embassy Tel: 676 6190 India, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 449 2700 indembassyuae.org Indonesia, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 445 4448 indonesianembassy.ae
Iran, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 444 7618 Iraq, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 441 8022
Nigeria, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Tel: 443 1503 nigerianabudhabi.org
Irish Embassy Tel: 495 8200 embassyabudhabi.com/Irish
Oman, Embassy of the Sultanate of Tel: 397 1000
Italy, Embassy of Tel: 443 5622 ambabudhabi.esteri.it
Pakistan, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Tel: 444 7800 pakistanembassyuae.org
Japan, Embassy of Tel: 443 5696 uae.emb-japan.go.jp Jordan, Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom Tel: 444 8588 jordanembassy.ae Kazakhstan, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 449 8778 kazakhstan.ae Kenya Embassy Tel: 666 6300 kenyaembassy.ae Korea Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 643 9122 Kuwait, Embassy of the State of Tel: 447 7146 Lebanon, Embassy of Tel: 449 2100 lebembassyuae.com Luxembourg, Embassy of the Grand Duchy of Tel: 491 2446 Malaysia, Embassy of Tel: 4482 775 Mauritania, Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Tel: 446 2724 Montenegro, Embassy of Tel: 441 8901 Morocco, Embassy of the Kingdom of Tel: 443 3973 moroccan-emb.com
Palestine, Embassy of the State of Tel: 447 1440 Philippines, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 639 0006 philembassy.ae Polish Embassy Tel: 446 5200 abuzabi.msz.gov.pl Portugal, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 650 5541 embportugal-uae.com Qatar, Embassy of the State of Tel: 449 3300 Romania Embassy Tel: 445 9919 abudhabi.mae.ro Netherland, Embassy of the Kingdom of Tel: 695 8000 uae.nlembassy.org Norway, Embassy of the Kingdom of Tel: 403 8400 norway.ae Russian Federation, Embassy of the Tel: 672 3516 uae.mid.ru Saudi Arabia, Embassy of Kingdom of Tel: 444 5700
Nepal, Embassy of Tel: 634 4767 nepalembassyuae.org
Senegal, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 633 6929
New Zealand, Embassy of Tel: 441 1222 nzembassy.com
Singapore, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 222 2083 43 YEAR 2015 - 16
DIRECTORY
Somalia, Embassy of the Federal Republic of Tel: 666 9700 South Africa, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 447 3446 Southafrica.ae Spanish Embassy Tel: 626 9544 Sri Lanka, Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Tel: 631 6444 srilankaembassyuae.com Sudan, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 444 6699 Swaziland, Embassy of the Kingdom of Tel: 666 9059 Sweden, Embassy of the Kingdom of Tel: 417 8800 swedenabroad.com/abudhabi Switzerland, Embassy of Tel: 627 4636 eda.admin.ch/uae Syrian Arab Republic, Embassy of the Tel: 444 8768 syrianembassy.ae Tanzania, Embassy of United Republic of Tel: 631 3088 Tajikistan, Embassy of Tel: 394 5814 Thailand – Royal Thai Embassy Tel: 557 6551 thaiembassy.org Tunisia, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 681 1331 Turkey, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 410 9999 Turkmenistan, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 449 1088 Uganda, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 665 9931 ugandaembassyuae.com 44
Ukraine, Embassy of Tel: 632 7586
Consulate General of Mexico Tel: 395 5404
Union of Comoros, Embassy of the republic of Tel: 558 3765
Consulate General of New Zealand Tel: 331 7500 nzte.govt.nz
United Kingdom, Embassy of the Tel: 610 1100 gov.uk United States of America, Embassy of the Tel: 414 2200 abudhabi.usembassy.gov Uzbekistan, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 448 8215 uzbekembassy.ae Venezuela, Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Tel: 445 2240 embavenezabudhabi.ae Vietnam, Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Tel: 441 7899 vietnamembassy-uae.org Yemen, Embassy of the Republic of Tel: 444 8457
CONSULATES IN DUBAI (+971 4) Consulate General of The Federal Republic of Germany Tel: 349 8888 dubai.diplo.de
Consulate General of Panama Tel: 337 2538 Consulate General of Romania Tel: 349 2979 dubai.mae.ro Consulate General of Switzerland Tel: 329 0999 eda.admin.ch Consulate General of Tajikistan Tel: 394 5814 Consulate General of the Arab Republic of Egypt Tel: 397 1122 Consulate General of the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria Tel: 344 43 77 cgalgeria-dubai.com Consulate General of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka Tel: 398 6535 slcgdxb.com Consulate General of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Tel: 269 9111
Consulate General of Australia Tel: 508 7100 dfat.gov.au
Consulate General of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Tel: 397 0500 jorconsulate.com
Consulate General of Canada Tel: 404 8444 canadainternational.gc.ca
Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan Tel: 398 8229
Consulate General of Federal Republic of Somalia Tel: 272 2559
Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran Tel: 344 4717 dubai.mfa.ir
Consulate General of India Tel: 397 1222 cgidubai.com Consulate General of Japan Tel: 331 9191 dubai.uae.emb-japan.go.jp Consulate General of Lebanon Tel: 397 7450 lebanonconsulate-uae.com
Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Tel: 397 3600 pakistanconsulate.ae Consulate General of the Kingdom of Denmark Tel: 348 0877 denmark.ae
Consulate General of the Kingdom of The Netherlands Tel: 695 8000 uae.nlembassy.org Consulate General of the Kyrgyz Republic Tel: 236 4453 kyrgyzconsuae.org Consulate General of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh Tel: 238 8199 cgbdubai.org Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China Tel: 394 4733 dubai.china-consulate.org Consulate General of Peru Tel: 422 7550 peru.ae Consulate General of the Republic of Angola Tel: 344 7541 angolaconsulate.ae Consulate General of the Republic of Bulgaria Tel: 344 2419 Consulate General of the Republic of Burundi Tel: 453 7300 Consulate General of the Republic of Chad Tel: 273 8470 Consulate General of the Republic of Djibouti Tel: 268 1134 Consulate General of the Republic of France Tel: 408 4900 consulfrance-dubai.org Consulate General of the Republic of Ghana Tel: 398 7799 ghanaconsulate.ae Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia Tel: 398 5666 indonesianconsulate.ae Consulate General of the Republic of Iraq Tel: 358 4700 Consulate General of the Republic of Kazakhstan Tel: 339 7151 kazconsulate.ae
Consulate General of the Republic of Kenya Tel: 342 8111 kenyaembassy.ae Consulate General of the Republic of Malta Tel: 331 1015 Consulate General of the Republic of Mozambique Tel: 398 8304 Consulate General of the Republic of Niger Tel: 266 4642 Consulate General of the Republic of Singapore Tel: 321 9498 mfa.gov.sg Consulate General of the Republic of South Africa Tel: 397 5222 Consulate General of the Republic of Sudan Tel: 397 7722 Consulate General of the Philippines Tel: 220 7100 dubaipcg.dfa.gov.ph Consulate General of the Republic of Tunasia Tel: 261 7070 Consulate General of the Republic of Turkey Tel: 331 4788 Consulate General of the Republic of Uruguay Tel: 329 7369 Consulate General of the Republic of Uzbekistan Tel: 370 6060 uzbekistanconsulate.ae Consulate General of the Republic of Yemen Tel: 397 0131 Consulate General of the Royal Thai Tel: 348 9550 thaiconsulatedubai.com Consulate General of the Russian Federation Tel: 328 5347 ruconsdubai.ae
Consulate General of The State of Eritrea Tel: 222 0323 Consulate General of the State of Kuwait Tel: 397 8000 Consulate General of the State of Qatar Tel: 396 0444 Consulate General of the Syrian Arab Republic Tel: 357 2227 Consulate General of The Union of Comoros Tel: 229 9044 Consulate General of the United republic of Tanzania Tel: 394 0200 Consulate General of the United States of America Tel: 309 4000 dubai.usconsulate.gov Consulate General of Malaysia Tel: 398 5843 Consulate General of the kingdom of Morocco Tel: 349 6377 moroccanconsulate-dubai.com Consulate of the Republic of Azerbaijan Tel: 388 3727 Consulate General of Saudi Arabia Tel: 397 9777 Royal Norwegian Consulate Tel: 382 3880 norway.ae Consulate General of the Republic of Italy Tel: 331 4167 Consulate General of the Republic of Korea Tel: 344 9200 Consulate General of the State of Palestine Tel: 397 2020 Consulate General of United Kingdom Tel: 309 4444 Ukinuae.fco.gov.uk 45 YEAR 2015 - 16
DIrECTOrY
DESTINATION MANAGEMENT COMPANIES ABU DHABI (+971 2) Abu Dhabi Travel Bureau abudhabitravelbureau.com Advanced Travel and Tourism advancedtravels.net Arabian Adventures – Dubai arabian-adventures.com Al Karwan Travel and Tourism Tel: 626 6612 Al Masaood Travel and Services almasaoodtravel.com Al Rostamani Travel and Holidays alrostamanitravel.ae Desert Adventure Tourism desertadventures.com Kanoo Travel Kanootravel.com Kurban Tours kurbantours.com Net Tours and Travel nettoursuae.ae Omeir Travel Agency omeir.com Sharaf Travel sharaftravel.com
AJMAN (+971 6) Ajman National Travel Agency etaascon.com Arabian Travel Agency Ltd atauae.com Eastern Travels Tours and Cargo ranco-group.com Satt Tourism and Travel uginvest.com
DUBAI (+971 4) Airlink International airlinkuae.com Al Abjar Tourism abjartourism.com Al Fajer Travel and Tourism alfajer.com Al Futtaim Travel Agency alfuttaimtravel.ae Al Naboodah Travel and Tourism Agencies alnaboodah.com Alpha Tours alphatoursdubai.com Al Rostamani Travel and Holidays alrostamanigroup.ae Al Tayer Travel Agency altayer-travel.com 46
Arabian Adventure arabian-adventures.com Arabian Explorers arabian-explorers.com Concord Travels and Tours concordtravels.com Congress Solutions International congresssolutionsinternational.com Desert Adventures Tourism Company desertadventures.com Dnata Holidays dnataholidays.com Emirates Holidays emirates-holidays.com Gulf Dunes gulfdunes.com Gulf Ventures-Dnata gulfventures.ae Kanoo Travels kanootravel.com MCI Dubai mci-group.com Meeting Minds meetingmindsdubai.com Nakheel Travels Tel: 04 329 1551 NET Group nettoursuae.ae North Tours LLC northtours.net Orient Tours orienttours.ae Sharaf Travel sharaftravel.com SNTTA Emir Tours snttaemirtours.com Travco Travel Dubai travcotravel.com Trident Travel rhsgroup.com World of Events worldofevents.com
FUJAIrAH (+971 9) Al Ghaith and Al Moosa Travel Agency alta-travel.ae Arabian Travel Agency atauae.com Brothers Tours and Travels Agency Tel: 224 2686 National Air Travel Agency Tel: 222 2316 Fujairah Aviation Services fujaa.ae Travel Link Tel: 222 6919
rAS Al KHAIMAH (+971 7) Arabian Travel Agency atauae.com Jamal Travel and Tourist Agency jamaltravels.com Ras Al Khaimah National Travel Agency rantarak.com
SHArJAH (+971 6) Arabian Travel Agency atauae.com InterContinental Travel and Tourism Tel: 569 1448 Kanoo Travel kanootravel.com Khor Fakkan Travel and Tourism Agency Tel: 238 4805 Oman Travel Agency Tel: 5612111 Sharjah Airport Travel Agency satatravels.com Sharaf Travel sharaftravel.com SNTTA sntta.com
UMM Al QUwAIN (+971 6) Travel Centre Tel: 766 6566 Umm Al Quwain National Travel Agency Tel: 765 6615
STAND BUIlDErS ABU DHABI (+971 2) Action Impact actionimpact.com Dome Exhibitions domeexhibitions.com Emirates Exhibition Services ees.co.ae Projex projexuae.com
DUBAI (+971 4) Abacus aabacusgroup.com Action Impact actionimpact.com Conex conexdxb.com Cross Concept crossconceptuae.com Electro Industries electroi.com
Harlequin Marquees and Event Services harlequinmarquees.com IMI Group groupimi.com Kingsmen kingsmen-me.com Laspinas Interiors laspinasinteriors.com Mind Spirit Design mindspiritdesign.com Nexus 54 nexus54.com Nucleus Exhibitions nucleusexhibitions.com Online Exhibition Stand Fixing onlinestand.ae Patson Middle East exhibitions.patsonme.com Pico International (Dubai) picomena.com Projex Event Services projexuae.com Tamam Exhibition Services tamamexhibition.com Top Gear Promotions tgpdubai.com
Sharjah (+971 6) Design Spot DĂŠcor Contracting dsignspot.en.ec21.com Evolution Events evolutionevents.com Mac Led romeomacgroup.com Strokes Exhibits strokesexhibits.com
Exhibition organiSErS abu Dhabi (+971 2) Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company adnec.ae Al Hader Exhibitions and Conferences al-hader.com Reed Exhibition reedexpo.com
ajman (+971 6) Ideas Events and Marketing ideasuae.com
Dubai (+971 4) Al Bader Exhibition Organisers baderuae.com
Al Fajer Information and Services alfajer.net Alpha Omega Services aosevents.com Arabcom Group arabcomgroup.com Art Heir LLC Events and Exhibitions artheir.com Channels Exhibitions channelsexhibitions.com Clearview Expo clearviewexpo.ae Datamatix datamatixgroup.com dmg world media dmgevents.com Dubai Convention Bureau dcb.ae Dubai World Trade Centre dwtc.com Epoc Messe Frankfurt GmbH messefrankfurtme.com Fairs and Exhibition Ltd fegroup.ae IIR Exhibitions iirme.com/exhibitions Index Conferences and Exhibition index.ae Innovation Exhibitions africantradefairs.com International Conferences and Exhibitions icedxb.com Kingsmen kingsmen-me.com Milestone Exhibitions milestoneme.com Orange Fairs and Events orangefairs.com Planetfair Dubai dubai@planetfair.com Seatrade Communications Ltd seatrade-middleeast.com
Car rEntaLS ComPaniES
abu Dhabi (+971 2) Avis rent a Car Tel: 621 8400 avisuae.ae Budget Rent a Car Tel: 633 4200 budget-uae.com Diamond Lease Rent a Car Tel: 674 0350 diamondlease.com
Europcar Rent a Car Tel: 626 1441 europcar-abudhabi.com Fast Rent a Car Tel: 6324000 fastuae.com German Rent A Car Tel: 628 1118 germanrac.com Hertz Rent a Car Tel: 5569130 hertz.ae Thrifty Rent a Car Tel: 445 5011 thriftyuae.com
ajman (+971 6) Al Asad Rent a Car Tel: 641 0707
Dubai (+971 4) Advantage Car Rental Tel: 880 4000 acr.ae Al Falah Car Rental (LLC) Tel: 396 1664 Al Falasi Car Rental Tel: 396 6552 alfalasi.luxury@yahoo.com Al Faris Rent a Car Tel: 271 7993 Al Ghazal Car Rental Tel: 345 4550 alghazalcar-rental.com Al Hilal Car Rental (LLC) Tel: 295 9625 alhilalcar@hotmail.com Al Maher Rent a Car Tel: 222 2280 addisabaab2010@hotmail.com Al Naham Rent a Car Tel: 271 0010 mohammadnaham@yahoo.com Al Naseem Rent a Car Tel: 272 2598 alnaseem_rac786@yahoo.com Al Sayeda Car Rental Tel: 337 2205 alseyadacarrental@hotmail.com Al Wakeel Car Rental Tel: 295 2336 alwakeel03@hotmail.com Al Weam Rent a Car (LLC) Tel: 258 0348 alweam@emirates.net.ae 47 YEAR 2015 - 16
DIRECTORY
Alamo Car Rental Tel: 335 5447 reservations@alamo-me.com Alaska Car Rental Tel: 335 3373 alaska_786@hotmail.com Arab Link (LLC) Tel: 268 9555 info@arablinkdubai.com Auto Assist Rent a Car Tel: 337 7877 autocar@eim.ae Autobahn Car Rental Tel: 340 6661 ra1szr@autobahnuae.com Avis UAE Rent a Car Tel: 295 7121 D1@avisuae.co.ae Badri Car Rental (LLC) Tel: 222 4495 shahzada@shahzadagroup.ae Bettercar (Al Qusais) Tel: 258 6331 info@bettercardubai.com Bravo Luxury Car Rental Tel: 341 9777 info@bravorentacardubai.com Budget Rent a Car Tel: 295 6667 mail@budget-uae.com Bruner Car Rental & Bus Passenger Transport Tel: 287 1108 buner.transport@gmail.com Car Fare Bus Rental (LLC) Tel: 297 3993 carefarellc.com Carlos Rent a Car Tel: 272 1005 carlo_rentacar@yahoo.com Diamondlease Rent a Car Tel: 343 4330 sales_szr@diamondlease.com Discount Rent a Car (LLC) Tel: 338 9060 discountcardubai.com Dollar Rent a Car Tel: 336 5065 dollaruae.com Dubai Rent a Car (Europcar) Tel: 339 4433 europcar@emirates.net.ae Dubai VIP Limousine Tel: 295 9898 zubair_dubaiviplimo@yahoo.com East Coast Rent a Car Tel: 234 4462 ecracdxb@emirates.net.ae 48
Elite Rent a Car Tel: 268 8877 elitecarrental@live.com Europcar Tel: 339 44 33 reservations@europcar.ae Europ Rent a Car (Emirates Taxi) Tel: 339 4455 europcar.com Eurostar Rent a Car Tel: 266 1117 eurostarrental.com Fast Rent a Car Tel: 338 7171 fastuae.com Fast Rent a Car (Airport Branch) Tel: 224 5040 fastuae.com Gargash Rent a Car Tel: 340 5155 carrental@gargashme.com German Rent a Car Tel: 298 0607 germanrac.com Ghusia Rent a Car Tel: 340 0596 ghusiauae.com Golden Cars Rent a Car Tel: 396 4677 tvsbabu123@yahoo.com Habib Abdulla Rent a Car Tel: 271 7313 habibabdulla88@yahoo.com Hertz Rent a Car Tel: 282 4422 hertz@alfuttaim.ae Idrive Rent a Car (LLC) Tel: 321 0777 idrive.ae Julia Rent a Car Tel: 396 9277 juliarac@emirates.net.ae Jumeirah Rent a Car Tel: 337 3000 jrc@emirates.net.ae Manchester Rent a Car Tel: 271 2338 National Rent a Car Tel: 283 2020 ncrmo@national-ae.com Parklane Limousines (LLC) Tel: 3471779 info@parklanerental.com Patriot Rent a Car Tel: 224 4244 reservation@patriotuae.com Premier Limousine Luxury Transport Tel: 338 1555 info@premierdubai.com
RPM Rent a Car Tel: 265 8658 rpmcar@hotmail.com Regency Rent a Car Tel: 271 1955 bassamamour@hotmail.com Saba Rent a Car Tel: 272 3567 chbasharat65@yahoo.com Safari Al Emarat Rent a Car Tel: 264 3223 ug-safari.com Sana Rent a Car Tel: 295 1515 sanarentacar.com Sanam Rent a Car (LLC) Tel: 283 2020 reservations@national-ae.com Shift Lease and Car Rentals Tel: 339 3722 shiftleasing.com Sixt Rent a Car Tel: 347 9777 ae.sixt.com Super Price Rent a Car Tel: 220 4466 sprac@eim.ae Super Star Rent a Car Tel: 271 4005 Superrent@yahoo.com Tauruscar Tel: 295 4652 info@tauruscar.com Thrifty Car Rental Tel: 347 9001 thrifty@emirates.net.ae Thrifty Rent-a-Car Tel: 3370 743 thriftyuae.com Top Gear Rent a Car Tel: 331 3338 topgear1@emirates.net.ae Turbo Rent a Car Tel: 294 0777 turbo797@eim.ae Union Rent a Car Tel: 396 6665 unionrac@eim.ae United Car Rentals Tel: 285 7777 unitedcarrentals.com
RAS AL KHAIMAH (+971 7) Al Raheed Rent a Car Tel: 228 3583 aldiarhotels.com
UMM AL QUWAIN (+971 6) Al Dana Rent a Car Tel: 765 2800
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Experience the height of Luxury The Iconic Landmark AFOCH opens the doors to all cultures sharing its unique history, architecture and traditional style.
The 600 elegantly appointed guest rooms and luxurious suites are embraced by an impressive inner garden, which is one of the world’s largest assemblies of one hundred and forty two species of plants in an indoor location. Relax in your room and watch your favorite movie on the LCD television. If you require extra workspace our business centre is complete with all modern facilities and equipment. When it’s time to put your workday aside, relax and rejuvenate in our health club which boasts extensive, world class sports and leisure facilities. During a vacation, nothing is better than indulging in great food. We have more than eight restaurants and lounges serving diverse cuisines ranging from ambient lounges to European fine dining. If you are looking to host a meeting or celebration, our gracious banquet halls are perfect for such occasions. We are pleased to greet you in our Grand Theatre seating up to 700 Guests or our Cinema seating up to 200 Guests. The Club & Hotel recreational facilities included two fully-equipped gymnasiums, Olympic swimming pool with Jacuzzi, spa and sauna, Olympic standard shooting galleries, squash courts, a bowling centre and facilities to enjoy table tennis, and paintball as well as indoor & outdoor football courts, indoor volleyball, tennis and basketball courts and a track and field course.
We look forward to welcoming you and your guests Where Hospitality is at its best
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Tel:+971 2 441 5900 | Fax: +971 2 497 3341 | www.afoc.mil.ae
49 YEAR 2015 - 16