Dubai all set for business events

Dubai is a known leisure destination. With good connectivity, visa-on-arrival facilty for people from 70 countries, and blended option of business and leisure travel, the city becomes an ideal place for those looking for a destination to organise their events.

Back to business! As the National Emergency Crisis and Disasters Management Authority (NCEMA) announces that all activities, events, and social gatherings in Dubai can gradually return to full capacity by February 15, there is a renewed fervour amid the local and global business community. The Dubai Government has worked closely with the public and private sectors to fight the pandemic. From vaccination availability to ease of vaccination appointment bookings, Dubai has indeed showcased resilience.

In 2020, the Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing formed a new Business Events Stakeholders Committee. The group has key industry stakeholders. The committee, which will meet regularly throughout the year, provides a platform for two-way dialogue around the continuous, strategic and operational development of the competitive position of Dubai as a host city for international business events.

Dubai is a known leisure destination. According to Global Media Insight (GMI), in 2020, 5.51 million visitors visited Dubai. The total number of visitors from January to May 2021 was 2.06 million. Although the pandemic has slowed down travel, Dubai’s comeback has been phenomenal. As a result, the city is even more successful and presents an ideal spot for those looking for an ideal destination for their events. The city has witnessed considerable growth in MICE activities.

One of the biggest advantages of the city is its connectivity. The airport is one of the busiest in the world, with nearly all major airlines flying to its two terminals and Emirates Airlines – Dubai’s flagship carrier – providing connectivity across global economies. Additionally, Dubai offers visa-on-arrival for nearly 70 countries, making travel hassle-free. What makes the city even more desirable for business events are the multiple business hotels and hubs across the city.

Another advantage of the city is its variety of appeal. Business and leisure travel motivations can blend together, allowing business trips to incorporate a leisure component, providing families flexibility in their holiday planning. In addition, it offers metro connectivity and restaurants within walking distance. A major addition to the city is also the Expo 2020 site. Not only has the event brought the world together, it offers a great venue for local and international corporates to hold their events. The city not only offers world-class facilities but also ensures safety of its people and tourists.

A significant milestone for the city is also the Dubai Remote Work Visa launched in 2021.

As business events play a significant role in building the economic development of a country, Dubai’s major appeal as a business event hub will continue to emphasise its capabilities and offerings. Despite the pandemic limiting some major global events, the slow but steady pick up will indeed be welcome. With the various initiatives and post-pandemic recovery predictions, Dubai is well on its way to achieving that.