The 12th edition of the event gathered together key decision-makers from the Indian tourism industry to exchange knowledge and help members navigate this ever-evolving business environment.

THE DEPARTMENT of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) hosted the Travel Agents Federation of India’s (TAFI) annual convention at Emirates Palace from September 25th to 27th.

The 12th edition of the event gathered together key decision-makers from the Indian tourism industry to exchange knowledge and help members navigate this ever-evolving business environment.

Choosing Abu Dhabi as the official host destination for this annual convention underlines the Emirate’s expanding reputation as a leading destination for hosting business events. 

Themed “Innovation – Transform – Disrupt – Redefining the Offline Travel World”, the event brought together industry professionals from across the globe to discuss the impact of the digital world on the travel and tourism sectors.

HE Saif Saeed Ghobash Undersecretary DCT, HE Sultan Al Mutawa AlDhaheri, Executive Director DCT, HE Navdeep Singh Suri, Ambassador of India to the UAE were present during the Inauguration ceremony along with delegates from Travel Agents Federation of India.

“Hosting an event of this calibre is testament to Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a world-class destination for high-profile conventions and meetings,” said HE Saif Saeed Ghobash, Undersecretary, at the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, “As the UAE continues to further boost its knowledge-based economy, tourism is singled out as one of the leading sectors that guide our vision and strategy for the future. Against this backdrop, we recognize India as one of Abu Dhabi’s top overseas source markets for guests, as it has recorded a remarkable upward trend over the last few years. As such, we are proud to host this prestigious event and invite all attendees to take the time to explore the Emirate’s rich offerings and enjoy unique experiences whilst they are here.”

The conference was followed by sightseeing tours around Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Dhafra regions where the 480 delegates will have a chance to experience Abu Dhabi’s tourism offerings. The tour covered iconic landmarks such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, Al Ain Oasis, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque amongst many others.