The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) will be rolling out the red carpet this September to host the 68th Annual Convention & Exhibition of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI).
Taking place from 17 to 19 September 2025 and held under the uplifting theme “Business with Goodness,” the convention will unite a powerhouse line-up from India’s travel trade including tour operators, travel agents, airlines, hospitality leaders, and tourism boards, alongside UAE counterparts, to forge fresh growth opportunities and strengthen bilateral tourism ties.
Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi, said:
“India continues to be a key priority market for us, not only in terms of visitor volume but also in long-term strategic collaboration. We are honoured to welcome TAAI’s esteemed members to Abu Dhabi and look forward to showcasing our destination’s remarkable evolution across world-class cultural icons, family attractions, luxury, adventure, and business travel offerings. This convention is an opportunity to build shared value and lasting partnerships across both our markets.”
India-Abu Dhabi’s tourism powerhouse
India is no stranger to Abu Dhabi’s visitor charts. In fact, it has been the UAE’s largest inbound source market for years now, with nearly 7.78 million Indian travellers heading to the UAE in 2024 alone. Abu Dhabi itself recorded a 26% year-on-year surge in hotel guests between January and October, with India topping the list of source countries.
Globally, India is on track to become the 5th largest outbound tourism market by 2027, with projected spending of US $89 billion, and the Middle East is consistently the preferred overseas region for Indian holidaymakers and MICE groups, with the wedding market on the rise.
Why Indian travellers love Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a popular destination for Indian travellers thanks to the mix of culture, heritage, and entertainment on offer catering to all interests across the ages. The emirate is home to breathtaking landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the artistic marvel of Louvre Abu Dhabi. Visitors can look forward to exploring Qasr Al Watan, kayaking through mangroves, discovering the interactive Children’s Museum, or taking in the serene BAPS Hindu Mandir, crafted from pink Rajasthan sandstone.
There’s also record-breaking fun to be had at Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, CLYMB Abu Dhabi and more. Plus the city’s food scene is equally diverse, with options ranging from traditional Emirati dining at the likes of Al Mrzab, to Indian fusion at say, Pincode by Kunal Kapoor, along with gourmet cooking classes at Ecole Ducasse. The list of experiences goes on and on …
Convention highlights
Now, back to business. What are the highlights of the three-day programme?
- 17 September: Grand Opening Ceremony followed by a lively welcome dinner with entertainment.
- 18–19 September: Plenary sessions with high-level discussions on tourism innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth.
- TAAI Business Buzz: B2B networking sessions designed to spark partnerships.
- 18 September evening: Cultural dinner spotlighting UAE hospitality and traditions.
- 19 September: Gala Night celebrating unity and shared ambitions.
Delegates will also enjoy exclusive access to Abu Dhabi’s most iconic attractions, including the Grand Mosque, Louvre, Qasr Al Watan, and the immersive teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi.
Looking forward to the event, Sunil Kumar, President of Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI), said:
“This convention will not only provide an enriching platform for knowledge-sharing and networking but also offer our members an immersive experience into Abu Dhabi’s diverse cultural, leisure, and business landscape. We look forward to a highly engaging and impactful gathering.”
Adding to the excitement, Managing Committee member of TAAI, Rajan Sehgal, added that the response has been incredible with more than 350 members already signed up upon the announcement, and further negotiations are being had with airlines for more seats.
The convention supports DCT Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which targets 39.3 million annual visitors by 2030. By forging strategic partnerships, enhancing connectivity, and creating immersive experiences, Abu Dhabi is developing a robust and diversified tourism industry that benefits both visitors and stakeholders.
Also read: Five Abu Dhabi do’s for a day visit
