VisitBritain, in association with Tourism Ireland, launched their flagship business-to-business travel trade event, Destination Britain & Ireland (DEBI), in Dubai yesterday. The event opened to huge success, with 25 % new companies from the UK and Ireland attending to showcase their latest travel and tourism offerings.
DEBI is VisitBritain’s biggest trade event of its kind in the Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa region (APMEA), with more than 200 key companies and travel industry specialists attending the three day event. 2010 is the seventh consecutive year that DEBI has taken place in Asia Pacific. Previous locations include Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, China, Australia and Hong Kong.
“UK and Ireland remain popular destinations for Middle East Travellers.” said Carol Maddison, UAE Marketing Manager, VisitBritain. “2010 has been a record year in terms of attendance, with 80 suppliers from 64 companies showcasing their latest travel and tourism packages.”
“The travel and tourism packages that are being showcased certainly bring to light the indisputable value-for-money travel deals which the regional market will continue to enjoy. With a significant year- on- year increase in GCC visitors to the UK and Ireland, Dubai is the ideal location for holding this event.” Maddison added.
Emirates airline is working closely with VisitBritain and Tourism Ireland on this event, and will be the official airline carrier at DEBI 2010. Having the best connectivity into the UK, with flights to Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Newcastle, Birmingham and Glasgow, Emirates airline undoubtedly offers Middle East travellers the easiest and most comfortable journeys.
DEBI is being held at the Grand Hyatt Dubai from 10 to 13 May. For more information on DEBI 2010, please visit: www.destination-britain-ireland.com
