The global meetings and events community has converged in the vibrant Emirate of Abu Dhabi for the ICCA 2024 Global Congress, a premier gathering of industry professionals from 20-23 October. With a focus on shaping the future of international business tourism, the event explores the latest trends, innovations and collaborative strategies driving the sector.
In his address, Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, stressed on the significance of business and events tourism as an engine for sustainable growth and global cooperation.
“It is an honour to welcome you to the ICCA 2024 Global Congress here in the wonderful Emirate of Abu Dhabi,” Pololikashvili began, expressing pride in the deep partnership between UN Tourism and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA). He underscored the importance of the meetings industry beyond its traditional scope, calling it a driver of human connections and societal progress.
“Business and Events Tourism is about more than a meetings industry. It is the engine that powers connections, partnerships and solutions to the challenges of tomorrow. It shapes the future of work, creativity and global cooperation, ensuring tourism remains a resilient and sustainable force for good for generations to come,” he said.
Celebrating ICCA’s five-decade legacy, Pololikashvili acknowledged the organization’s pivotal role in transforming the business tourism sector. He emphasized ICCA’s contribution to fostering global prosperity through collaboration, innovation and cultural exchange.
“For over five decades, ICCA has been a cornerstone of innovation, collaboration, and growth in the Business and Events Tourism industry. ICCA has built a platform that amplifies not just business and events tourism, but human connections that drive economic progress and cultural exchange – the cornerstones of global prosperity.”
The Secretary-General also expressed gratitude for his longstanding relationships with Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA and Marta Gomes, ICCA President, applauding their efforts in uniting the sector to advance shared goals.
“Together, we are committed to championing collaboration across borders and sectors, ensuring our industry is not just an engine of growth, but a catalyst for societal impact, sustainability, and global peace,” he affirmed.
Pololikashvili emphasized the strategic significance of Abu Dhabi and the Middle East in shaping the future of business tourism, describing the region as a rising epicentre for global meetings and events.
“The Middle East has emerged as a leading hub for global Business and Events Tourism, playing a crucial role in the sector’s exponential growth. The investment in world-class infrastructure, coupled with a deep commitment to fostering global connections, positions the Middle East as a key player in our industry’s future.”
He further commended Abu Dhabi’s ambition and collaborative spirit, encouraging the sector to recognize the region’s leadership role. “We must recognize Abu Dhabi and the Middle East as not just a host of this year’s Congress, but as a leader, shaping the future of business tourism and showing the world what is possible when ambition and collaboration converge.”
The Congress is being held under the theme: “Tomorrow starts today,” reflecting the sector’s focus on future-proofing the industry through innovation and partnerships. Pololikashvili reiterated the importance of the event’s mission, stressing that the dedication of ICCA’s leadership and members is critical to driving positive change.
“Under the leadership of Senthil and Marta, whose vision and leadership continue to drive the Business and Events Tourism industry forward, you have the power to champion positive change.” He reaffirmed UN Tourism’s support, pledging the commitment of the organization’s global leadership community to ICCA’s goals.
“I, along with the UN Tourism member state community of leaders, stand with you, and I wish you all a successful 2024 ICCA Congress,” Pololikashvili concluded, calling on delegates to seize the opportunity to inspire transformation across the sector.
