A specialised workshop to train Abu Dhabi-based travel agents on how to better understand and meet the challenges of their sector’s changing environment and capitalise on Asian and Chinese business opportunities, is to take place this week.

The one day session, on May 13, is being organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) with the support of the Abu Dhabi Travel and Tourism Agencies Council (ATTAC) and 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.

The workshop, part of the Executive Development Programme from ADTA’s Professional Development Team, will be held at the InterContinental Abu Dhabi.

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% 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 that we will have a competitive edge in further", he added.
 

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