Travel workshop to focus on Asian markets

Abu Dhabi, May 11, 2010

A workshop on how to better understand and meet the challenges of the travel sector’s changing environment and capitalise on Asian and Chinese business opportunities is set to take place in Abu Dhabi.

The workshop, part of the executive development programme from Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), will be held at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi on May 13 in collaboration with Hong Kong Polytechnic University.

Dr Barry Mak, assistant professor at the Polytechnic’s school of hotel and tourism management, will outline the changing environment and detail strategic counter-measures which could help grow business.

Dr Mak, who has authored more than 44 papers in international publications, will back up his case with specific studies of major tour operators and ticketing agencies which have adapted to change.

He will also guide Abu Dhabi’s tourism professionals on how to increase and upgrade their knowledge on food and beverage and Internet usage that will help them appreciate how service and product design create a leading business edge.

Asia and China are key emerging markets for Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry with the UAE last year being given approved destination status from the Chinese authorities allowing its tour operators to send groups to the Emirates.

“The figures speak for themselves,” said Paul Ram Prakash, industry professional development manager, ADTA.

“In the first quarter of this year Chinese hotel guests in Abu Dhabi rose 28 per cent on the same period last year rising to 4,460. With better understanding of the unique requirements of Chinese and Asian guests, we are confident we will have a competitive edge on which to further build,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service

Tags: UAE | abu dhabi | China | ADTA | Asia | Travel agents |