The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has witnessed tremendous growth in its meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) industry over the past decade. With world-class infrastructure, business-friendly environment and attractive tourist destinations, the UAE has positioned itself as a top global MICE destination.
Infrastructure & Facilities
The UAE offers state-of-the-art infrastructure to accommodate MICE events of all sizes and scales. Dubai and Abu Dhabi boast of some of the largest and most modern convention centers in the world like Dubai World Trade Centre and ADNEC. These mega convention facilities can host mega exhibitions and conventions simultaneously attended by thousands of delegates. Apart from the core infrastructure, these venues also provide all necessary ancillary facilities like meeting rooms, banquet halls, advanced audio-visual equipment and high-speed internet connectivity under one roof. The cities are also well-connected by modern transport systems like metro, trams, buses and taxis making commute within cities hassle-free. Five-star hotels in different price categories located near the venues cater to accommodation needs of both local and international participants.
Government Support
The progressive government of UAE acknowledges the economic importance of the MICE industry and extends strong support to further develop the sector. Several incentives and initiatives have been rolled out to attract global MICE events to the emirates. Dubai and Abu Dhabi have set up dedicated government authorities namely Dubai Business Events and Abu Dhabi Convention Bureau to woo organizers and bid for international conferences and exhibitions. These authorities actively promote the destination through roadshows, sales missions, participation in global trade shows and liaison with event organizers. They also provide logistic, visa and other facilitation support to meetings and events held in the emirates. The government has also developed special free zones like Dubai International Financial Centre to promote UAE as a hub for specific industries and their related conferences.
Competitive Pricing
One of the key advantages that UAE Meetings Incentives Conferences Exhibitions destinations hold over their global peers is competitive pricing for both organizers and participants. The infrastructure developed through massive investments ensures world-class facilities are available at affordable rates. Compared to other developed economies, costs of venues, accommodation, local transportation and F&B in UAE are substantially lower. Organizers can put together high quality events in the emirates at highly competitive budget without compromising on any aspect. Additionally, the zero income tax regime in Dubai and Abu Dhabi further enhances savings and profits for companies hosting their MICE activities in UAE. This value proposition has helped UAE strengthen its reputation as a ‘value for money’ MICE hub.
Diversified Sector Growth
Over the years, UAE has cemented its position as a preferred host for mega exhibitions across sectors like oil & gas, marine, construction, healthcare and electronics. Platforms like GITEX, Arab Health and ADIPEC energy show attract over 100,000 business visitors each year into the country. Besides these flagship shows, smaller to mid-sized sector-specific conferences are also regularly organized leveraging world-class infrastructure. Simultaneously, incentive travel comprising of rewards trips, familiarization tours and corporate meetings have found increasing popularity in UAE. Itineraries combining leisure activities in Dubai and Abu Dhabi with business agendas are a big draw. The sector’s growth has also translated into robust development of related industries like tourism, hospitality, event management and audio-visual. Thousands of jobs have been created in these support industries.
Connectivity & Visa Facilitation
As one of the most connected countries globally, UAE makes it extremely convenient for international delegates to attend MICE events. Dubai and Abu Dhabi boast of two of the world’s largest airports with links to over 200 international destinations. Major global airlines have put the emirates at the center of their networks ensuring seamless one-stop connections across regions. The visa on arrival scheme introduced by the government allows fast-track entry for MICE participants from eligible countries. Online e-visa systems have further simplified and expedited visa applications. Multi-entry visa options are also granted for repeat visitors or those combining business with leisure. These facilitative policies burnish UAE’s image of being an accessible global business hub.
Tourism Integration
With its vibrant tourism sector comprising of iconic attractions like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountains and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque; UAE seamlessly blends MICE with leisure. Organizers can craft packages that include pre/post conference tours to key attractions and activities. Doing business thus becomes an enriching cultural experience for participants. This integrated value proposition places UAE above traditional MICE-only destinations. The diversity in hotels, restaurants, shopping and entertainment options in Dubai and Abu Dhabi ensure an unforgettable visit for all attendees. International accessibility coupled with a flexible visa regime further boosts tourism integration of the emirates’ thriving events industry.
Over the last decade, prudent government decisions and heavy investments have elevated UAE’s stature amongst top global destinations for MICE. World-class infrastructure, competitive pricing, sector growth opportunities and tourism appeal give the country an unmatched value proposition. Looking ahead, UAE will continue diversifying its portfolio, developing nicheindustry clusters and leveraging technology for business events to cement its leadership in the Mena region’s lucrative MICE landscape.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it