The Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company (ADNEC) announced the launch of the second phase of development and expansion for the Al Ain Convention Center. This move aligns with ADNEC's strategy to bolster Al Ain's burgeoning business tourism sector and solidify Abu Dhabi's position as a premier regional events hub.
The expansion project will see a total area increase of 8%, bringing the center's footprint to a substantial 14,000 square meters. Construction is slated for completion by early 2017, with an estimated timeframe of 150 days. The centerpiece of the expansion will be a dedicated conference complex designed to meet the top-tier standards set by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA).
Spanning 1,000 square meters, the conference complex will boast five strategically placed meeting rooms spread across two floors. Two of these meeting rooms, offering ample space at 112 and 78 square meters respectively, will be situated on the ground floor. Three additional, equally sized meeting rooms of 47 square meters each will occupy the first floor. Collectively, these new conference facilities can comfortably accommodate up to 600 visitors.
The expansion project goes beyond adding new meeting spaces. ADNEC is committed to enhancing the overall visitor experience. Plans include renovations to the existing VIP rooms and the theater infrastructure, ensuring a modern and functional environment for all event attendees.
Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, acting group CEO of ADNEC, emphasized the company's commitment to continuous improvement. "The launch of phase two of the Al Ain Convention Center aligns with ADNEC's ongoing strategy to upgrade and boost the efficiency of all our subsidiary entities," Al Dhaheri stated. "Through such efforts, we can ensure that our world-class venues remain competitive and relevant in attracting major local and international exhibitions and events to the emirate."
Al Dhaheri further underscored the significance of the business tourism sector to Abu Dhabi's economic diversification efforts. "The business tourism sector is currently one of the strongest performing sectors in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and articulates the visionary UAE leadership's efforts to diversify the national economy away from a dependence on oil," he explained. ADNEC's expansion plans position the Al Ain Convention Center to play a pivotal role in attracting a wider range of conferences and exhibitions, contributing to the emirate's knowledge-based economy.
The expansion of the Al Ain Convention Center signifies ADNEC's unwavering commitment to developing a robust and well-equipped network of exhibition and conference facilities across Abu Dhabi. This strategic investment strengthens Al Ain's position as a premier destination for business tourism, attracting domestic and international events that contribute to the emirate's social and economic development.