The Arab World Travel and Tourism Exchange (AWTTE 2005) will be inaugurated on September 29 under the patronage of HE Joseph Sarkis, Minister of Tourism in Lebanon. This announcement took place today at a press conference held at the Ministry of Tourism’ s offices.

AWTTE, which takes place annually in October, has been growing steadily by a 20% increase whether in the number of visitors or exhibiting space alike. National pavilions registered at this year’ s edition of the show up till the moment are Algeria, Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, Iran, India, Jordan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Morocco, Qatar, Tunisia, Turkey and Lebanon, with Qatar as the 2005 Guest Country.

Hotel chains, such as InterContinental Hotels Group, Movenpick Hotels & Resorts and Safir Hotels and Le Royal Hotels, who are also this year’ s Gold Host Hotel Sponsor, in addition to local and private hotels in Lebanon, have already booked their spaces.

This year’ s edition will be distinguished with the following:

Top international travel agents and tour operators will be hosted with complimentary travel, accommodation and a full program as Hosted Buyers to meet and network with local tour operators and hotels.

AWTTE 2005 Gold Host Hotel, Le Royal Hotel, will host the Opening Gala Dinner with the welcome speeches and entertainment shows.

As Qatar is the AWTTE 2005 Guest Country, the Qatar Tourism Authority will host on September 30 a traditional Qatari night at the Habtoor Grand Hotel.

As an exclusive promotional partner, Cadillac has signed a Silver Sponsor contract to showcase its latest brands

A draw will be held during October 1 and 2 at various times for the gifts granted by AWTTE exhibitors. Prizes include holidays, tours, cruises, weekend stays as well as lunches and dinners.

A trip to Sidon on October 1 will fascinate participants with a traditional Lebanese day.
In addition to these free promotional opportunities, media coverage will be granted to exhibitors’ news in the two AWTTE official magazines, Middle East Travel and Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal. Exhibitors will also be able to post their company profiles on the AWTTE Web Site and in the show catalogue. They may also invite their top clients in advance to the opening ceremony, promotional sessions, cocktail receptions or their own product launching.

Admission to the exhibition is free of charge. Participants will also benefit from customized usage of the AWTTE web.

Discounted hotel and flight rates, visa-entry facilities and familiarization trips will also be available at the exhibition to allow participants to make good use of their time during AWTTE.