ICCA’s Dubai Congress delegates to dine in the desert while keeping focus on business

The International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) has announced that its social programme for the 57^th ICCA Congress in Dubai will involve taking delegates from the world’s tallest building to the rolling dunes of the Arabian desert. Dubai Business Events, the city’s official convention bureau, and its partners on the Local Host Committee are organising the Congress, 11–14 November 2018 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai. Sunday 11 November will see a Welcome Reception at the Armani Pavilion, with al fresco dining and entertainment right next to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 830 metres. The main Congress dinner will be hosted, meanwhile, 13 November, at the Al Lisaili Desert Camp. Al Lisaili is custom-built to resemble a traditional Arabian fort, complete with traditional Arabic entertainment, music and cuisine. Registered delegates will be able to enjoy sunset camel rides, local henna skin art and other traditional Bedouin activities. Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said: “The 57th ICCA Congress comes at an opportune time and is set to highlight some of the many factors driving interest in the business events sector here in Dubai.” Kazim added: “As a first-time host to the Congress, Dubai has a lot to offer delegates, and we have developed a strong social programme to accompany the event that incorporates some of our most iconic landmarks and experiences.” Dennis Speet, acting CEO of ICCA, following the announcement of the departure of long-time CEO Martin Sirk, said: “ICCA is renowned as the most effective global networking platform in the meetings industry, bringing together leaders from a multitude of different countries, business cultures, and sectors, who all enjoy the advantages of ICCA’s warm and friendly yet business-focused culture.” The Local Organising Committee is also coordinating with ICCA to ensure the congress once again has a strong corporate social responsibility (CSR) element. To aid UAE-based Noor Dubai Foundation, which focuses on eyesight, delegates are being encouraged to bring old pairs of glasses and sunglasses and donate them to the charity. The second ever ICCA Charity Run ‘N’ Walk will also take place on 12 November at the Dubai beachfront to support the foundation. Industry professionals can register to attend the 57th ICCA Congress in Dubai here.