AHIC 2010 has attracted more than 600 industry professionals from 42 countries, and has enjoyed a significant increase in participants from the hotel investment sector, according to the show organisers.
Jonathan Worsley, chairman of Bench Events which co-organises AHIC, commented: “I am delighted at the increased turnout this year, and particularly the constantly growing participation by investors in the sector, as well by attendees from the MENA region.
“The quality and quantity of the debates that have been held by the participants so far has been extremely high, and it is proving to be great opportunity to facilitate networking and deal-making prospects.”
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One of the highlights of Sunday was the Leaders’ Panel, which look at how industry CEO’s are protecting and growing their businesses, and where and how they are unlocking investment opportunities in the region.
Mark Wynne-Smith, CEO Europe, Middle East & Africa, Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels, who moderated the panel, commented: “One of the key themes that was discussed was the expected increase in investments in the budget and mid-level hotel sectors in the region. This diversification in the market will help protect against fluctuations in price and occupancy levels caused by the impact of broader economic factors and is an important step as the regional market continues to mature.
Monday’s itinerary includes the 2010 AHIC Leadership Award, which will be presented to Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon al Nahyan, chairman of TDIC and chairman, Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, president of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation, chairman of Dubai Airports and chairman and CEO of Emirates Airlines, followed by a conversation with John Defterios, host of CNN Marketplace Middle East.
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