World Travel Market, the leading global event for the travel industry, has signed yet another emirate from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), meaning six out of the seven states will be represented at WTM 2014.
Exhibiting at the event for the first time this year will be the Ajman Tourism Development Department (ATDD). It will be joined by Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, which made its debut at WTM in 2013, and will return for 2014 with a larger stand.
Four other emirates have attended WTM for many years: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah and Sharjah. The only state from UAE which will not be at WTM is Um al-Quwain, which has the smallest population of the seven emirates.
HE Faisal Al Nuaimi, the General Manager of ATDD, said WTM will see the launch of a promotional campaign aimed at luring more tourists to Ajman.
ATDD will showcase the emirate’s heritage, castles and archaeology along with recreational, ecological and religious attractions.
He added: “WTM, moreover, is considered a good opportunity to review the developments in the various travel sectors and get posted on the latest insights, trends and knowledge serving the rapid development in the establishment of travel agencies.
“The ATDD vision is a ‘Charming Emirate and Unique Tourism Experience’ and its mission is ‘the development and sustainability of the emirate’s tourism sector’.
“At WTM 2014, ATDD will highlight a number of messages, including ATDD’s delivering of a unique experience in terms of stakeholder satisfaction.”
Ras Al Khaimah – the northern-most emirate of the UAE – is just 45 minutes from Dubai International Airport and launched its Tourism Development Authority in 2011.
The UK is one of Ras Al Khaimah’s top three source markets and British tourists primarily visit to enjoy the emirate’s beach hotels and resorts, which feature brands such as Waldorf Astoria, DoubleTree by Hilton and Banyan Tree.
Steven Rice, Chief Executive of Ras Al Khaimah TDA, commented: “Our presence at WTM comes as a testament of our commitment to continue strengthening our ties with the UK as one of our top source markets; and exemplifies our initiatives to further grow the emirate’s brand presence, which with its temperate climate, stunning landscapes, best beaches in the UAE and vast outdoor adventure offering, is fast establishing itself internationally as a premier global affordable luxury destination.
“We are looking forward to meeting leading tour operators, marketing opportunities and potential travel trade partners.”
World Travel Market, Senior Director, Simon Press said: “WTM has traditionally been a must-attend event for the tourism giants in the United Arab Emirates and it has been gratifying to see the travel industry growth in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah and Sharjah over the years.
“Now it’s the turn of the smaller emirates, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah, to promote their many attractions on a global stage and claim their share of the tourism market.
“These emerging markets know that WTM is a one-stop shop for travel and tourism professionals around the globe and if they want to showcase their emirates’ attractions to the world, this is the most effective platform.”
-Ras Al Khaimah will be on stand ME450.
-Ajman will be on stand ME260.
