ITB Strong interest in Abu Dhabi at Berlin event

Berlin: Exhibitors at ITB Berlin, one of the world's largest travel shows, have reported strong interest in Abu Dhabi, its expansion plans and new product offerings.

Interest was spurred by a number of major announcements from members of the Abu Dhabi pavilion, which was organised by the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority.

Shangri-La Asia Limited revealed it has signed an agreement with the UAE capital's Al Jaber Group to manage the 300-roomTraders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, opening in the third quarter of this year. The hotel will be the group's second in Abu Dhabi following the opening of Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi in August 2007.

Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, the world's most modern facility of its type, has been promoting its latest MICE offering, the Shaheen Conference Centre, named after the Arabic for a champion falcon, which is due to open mid year. The centre will host events for up to 160 people and complements the hospital's plans for a new Arabian Falconry museum.

"We have significantly expanded our contact base at ITB. We already have a strong profile in the German market which has proved highly receptive to our expansion plans," said Margit Muller, Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital's Director.

Over 1,000 trade representatives visited the Abu Dhabi stand.