“This event is an incredibly valuable experience for travel professionals,” said ASTA CEO Zane Kerby.“Dubai will be an opportunity for attendees to network, learn, and experience an up-and-coming travel destination.”
More than 88 percent of the travel agents registered for IDE are coming from the U.S. They will learn beneficial information about driving business to Dubai and, based upon last year’s IDE, ASTA is confident this expo will exceed expectations. ASTA held the International Destination Expo 2012 in Peru and many travel professionals found the event to be a success. According to a 2012 Peru IDE Follow-Up Survey, 38 percent of attendees sold travel to Peru within three months after the event. The amount spent on travel exceeded $2 million.
"The IDE Peru 2012 was beyond amazing- the venues, entertainment and, of course, the education was not only a surprise but a delight! I am so glad I went, and ASTA really put together an amazing experience," said Helen Gbala.
IDE Dubai 2013 offers numerous opportunities for travel professionals. This year’s program includes dinners, meetings, sightseeing, education sessions, and a tradeshow floor. These activities allow participants to immerse themselves in the local culture as training seminars take them beyond the classroom and offer real-life experiences for them to share. Attendees can even extend their stay to experience the full United Arab Emirates by participating in pre- and post-tours. They will return home with the ability to share their knowledge with clients and send travelers to the magical city of Dubai. The number of attendees and exhibitors for IDE Dubai 2013 continues to grow daily. Interested travel professionals, including non-members, still have an opportunity to register.
"ASTA always does a great job at these events. All of your IDEs have been absolutely great, impressive, and memorable. In the end, these shows are great for agents," said A. Madeline Lee from Whittier Travel.
