Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) hosted the 2016 edition of the XL International Workshop, dedicated to decision makers and professionals from the association congresses and venues industry at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
Launched in Glasgow in 2003, the globally rotating XL Workshop was developed by a group of industry leaders within the association congresses and venues space to share information, experiences and explore business opportunities.
On alternate years, the workshop is hosted for organisations that hold rotating conferences within Europe.
The three-day workshop drew 16 senior executives from international associations who are organising conferences of 3,000 delegates and above as well as representatives of 14 venues from around the world.
It served as a unique platform for senior decision makers to share expertise, explore business opportunities and participate in topical and educational discussions.
Robin Miller, director of sales at ADNEC, said: “ADNEC hosted the biennial XL Workshop this year as part of our continued commitment to sharing expertise and knowledge with our industry partners. The workshop helped us showcase our expansive venues and facilities to key global decision makers in the association congresses industry that can help them deliver successful international events.”
Miller added: “Business tourism is at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s ambitious plans for economic development. In collaboration with our partners, we continue to leverage Abu Dhabi’s immense potential as a leading destination in this sector, while also benefitting from opportunities to promote efficient knowledge transfer and expertise.”
The workshop agenda included a series of networking sessions, ADNEC site tour, educational components, city tours, and outdoor activities at the Arabian Nights Village.
Mark Levin, executive vice president, Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute delivered the first knowledge session titled ‘When World’s Collide’. The session highlighted ways in which associations can improve their ability to serve their members across professions and industries, as well as key stakeholders through replicating best practices in the private sector.
Kai Troll, development director, International Sport and Cultural Association (ISCA) headlined the second session of the workshop. Under the theme ‘Building Sustainable Funding Models’, the session focused on the types and potential sources of funding available to associations today. In addition, it offered a broader view of revenue development and encouraged participants to think differently about income generation.
ADNEC features 133,000sqm of inter-connected floor space for events and exhibitions. The venue attracted 1.8 million people across 369 events in 2015.
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