UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, has signed up the Qatar’s National Tourism Council (NTC) as a Diamond Sponsor. The parties have also signed an accompanying Framework Agreement, which looks at ways to develop the exhibition industry in Qatar.
NTC joins the top tier of UFI Diamond Sponsors, which entails year-round promotion and engagement with UFI’s global network of members. The agreement will focus particularly on connecting Qatar to two of the industry’s fastest growing markets – China and India.
Ahmed Al Obaidli, Director of Exhibitions, NTC, commented: “Qatar is strategically located at the heart of one of the most prosperous and rapidly developing regions – at the crossroad of Asia, Europe and Africa. It boasts world-class exhibition and conference venues and we embrace this chance to welcome the international exhibition community to come and do business here. NTC naturally complements UFI’s values and is in a perfect position to work closely with the global association.”
Kai Hattendorf, CEO and Managing Director of UFI, added: “We are very pleased to welcome NTC as a Diamond Sponsor. This programme enables UFI to take on, develop and promote new activities, education, events and services. We thank NTC for their support and look forward to developing a closer co-operation and understanding over the coming years.”
The NTC and IFP Qatar also recently joined hands to launch the first tourism-focused conference in Qatar, held on the sidelines of the fourth edition of the annual Hospitality Qatar exhibition, 6-8 November.
Ahmed Al Obaidli said: “Supporting local conferences and exhibitions is in line with our efforts to empower event organisers and lay the groundwork for a thriving business events industry in Qatar.”
Hospitality Qatar is Qatar’s premier international hospitality and HORECA trade show and was held again at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center.