ASTA members set to connect in Dubai
More than 420 travel agents will gather at ASTA’s International Destination Expo (IDE) in Dubai in two weeks to learn first-hand about this rising tourist destination. Taking place from April 4-7, attendees will meet with hard to reach local suppliers and experience Dubai through the eyes of their clients. “This event is an incredibly valuable experience for travel professionals,”says ASTA CEO Zane Kerby. “Dubai will be an opportunity for attendees to network, learn, and experience an up-and-coming travel destination.”More than 88% of the agents registered for IDE are coming from the US. They will learn beneficial information about driving business to Dubai and, based upon last year’s IDE, ASTA is confident this expo will exceed expectations. ASTA held the International Destination Expo 2012 in Peru and many travel professionals found the event to be a success. According to a 2012 Peru IDE Follow-Up Survey, 38% of attendees sold travel to Peru within three months of event. The amount spent on travel exceeded $2 million. IDE Dubai 2013 offers numerous opportunities for travel professionals. This year’s program includes dinners, meetings, sightseeing, education sessions, and a tradeshow floor. These activities allow participants to immerse themselves in the local culture as training seminars take them beyond the classroom and offer real-life experiences for them to share. Attendees can even extend their stay to experience the full United Arab Emirates by participating in pre- and post-tours.
