UITT, Ukraine’s largest exhibition for the travel industry, opens on 24 March in the IEC in Kiev. The event has become a regular meeting place for the industry and an opportunity for destinations to showcase the best their country has to offer to an increasing number of Ukrainian travellers, as well as tour operators and travel agents.
This year, UITT introduces four new destinations, Abu Dhabi, Mauritius, Réunion and South Africa. In addition, Morocco will participate for the first time as the winner of UITT’s ‘wild card’ initiative. Egypt, Israel and Czech Republic have all increased their stands at UITT, whilst other confirmed destinations include: Dubai, Bulgaria, Greece, Croatia, Spain, France, Cyprus, Slovakia, China, Jordan, Lebanon, Malta, Thailand, Malaysia, Spain, Czech Republic, Cuba, Slovenia, Tunisia, Dominican Republic, Maldives, Seychelles, UK, India, Georgia, Hungary and Tanzania.
Europe continues to have a strong presence at the show, investing in the future and demonstrating their confidence in the Ukrainian market. According to Event Director, Maria Badakh, “Ukraine has struggled through the global crisis but confidence in the long-term growth of the tourism market is strong, particularly amongst European destinations, who have retained the same size stands as in previous years. We are also pleased to welcome Hungary back to UITT. One factor that is boosting European participation in the event, is the cancellation of visa requirements for European travellers staying for less than 180 days. In addition, the country’s own tourism industry is seeing a healthy upturn due to plans for the country’s hosting of the Euro 2012 football tournament.”
Every year, a number of events take place during UITT. This year, they include:
- An international conference entitled ‘Spa in Ukraine ‘10’, organised jointly with the Ukrainian Spa Association on 24 March.
- The 4th edition of the international business forum ‘Small Hotels & Apartments of Ukraine’, organised with the Association of Small Hotels & Apartments of Ukraine on 25 March.
- The 5th edition of the MICE Ukraine international conference entitled ‘Business Tourism – Ukraine’, which will give delegates an insight into the industry, its audience, trends and prospects. It will also give participants a valuable opportunity to network with their peers.
- A section of the show will be dedicated to the growing market for medical tourism.
