Festivale 2005 opens in Dubai

Big, themed events planned and executed across the Middle East will likely continue to grow in size and stature over the next few years, as regional organizers implement increasingly rigorous standards of excellence comparable with the world’s very largest and most prestigious gatherings, keynote speakers told Festivale attendees today.

The three-day Festivale convention which opens today will take place in Dubai through April 26, and will examine how major entertainment, commercial and sporting events are staged, by bringing leading event planners, destination managers, and organizers to the region.

“The Middle East big events market is growing beyond anyone’s prediction, and it’s not limited to any one regional country. There is enormous demand for professional event management skills in every Arab capital, as public and private groups play host to international caliber sport, musical, cultural, and business meetings of tremendous size and importance,” said Sabine Enthammer, executive director conferences, IIR Middle East, organizers of Festivale 2005.

“We expect that Festivale will continue to provide these regional meetings and events professionals with an annual forum for thought-provoking discussion on the world’s very latest industry trends and methodologies for applying excellence to the execution of their respective exhibitions, gatherings, festivals, and functions.”

The conference at the Dubai World Trade Center will examine issues from conception to final implementation, encompassing subjects such as planning and branding, logistics, budgeting, health and safety, marketing and emergency planning. 

Speakers include, among others, Saeed M. Al Nabouda, chief executive officer, Dubai Shopping Festival; Tim Roberts, health and safety coordinator for the Glastonbury music festival; John Kennedy, director Cork 2005, European Capital of Culture; and Claire Holder, managing director, The Carnival Roadshow Company.

Festivale 2005 is accredited by the Project Management Institute, which has more than 125,000 members in 140 countries, and endorsed by the International Special Events Society (ISES Europe) and the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA).

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