AITO to hold conference in little-known Middle Eastern destination

AITO will hold its annual conference in the little-known United Arab Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah.

The destination is about an hours’ drive from Dubai International Airport.

AITO chairman Derek Moore said: "For 2018 we wanted to steer a middle path. In 2016 our conference was built around the world-famous icon that is Petra; in 2017 we headed for the Alentejo, a little-known region of Portugal. Both conference destinations proved highly successful, so for 2018 we debated whether the conference should be held somewhere iconic or somewhere unknown. Instead, we have chosen to offer a Tale of the Unexpected."

He said Ras Al Khaimah offered year-long sunshine, white sandy beaches and terracotta desert landscapes. "However, in contrast to the fast pace and bright lights of its neighbours, this northern-most Emirate offers a more laid-back vibe, fewer high-rise developments, the highest mountains in the UAE, and a variety of exciting activities, along with a history and culture spanning 7,000 years.

"We’re thrilled to have been invited by the Ras Al Khaimah Tourist Development Authority (RAK TDA).

"It is particularly exciting for AITO members to visit such a fascinating destination that is on the cusp of change in terms of tourism."

Flights to the conference, taking place from November 22 to 25, will be with Emirates from several UK airports.

Haitham Mattar, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, said: "We are delighted to host the AITO overseas conference in Ras Al Khaimah this year.

"With our world class resorts both on our beautiful coastline and inland and abundance of cultural events and outdoor adventure pursuits, we believe that Ras Al Khaimah will be an entirely new and interesting destination for delegates to experience, and one that offers a truly authentic taste of the UAE."

Chair of AITO Specialist Travel Agents Gemma Antrobus added: "This is a destination with enormous potential for AITO Specialist Travel Agents, who are always on the lookout for somewhere a little different from the mainstream.

"It offers the perfect balance of beach, activity, history and culture, providing the variety that many of our discerning clients seek and that AITO Agents enjoy selling."

AITO delegates will fly in to Dubai and transfer to their accommodation in the centre of Ras Al Khaimah, choosing either the five-star Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa overlooking the beach, or the recently-remodelled four-star Hilton Garden Inn – also the setting for the conference – which is slightly closer to the town and offers views across the inland waterway.

Touring options in Ras Al Khaimah include a ‘flight’ along the longest zipline in the world on Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest mountain, kayaking on the inland waterways and desert dune bashing and wildlife viewing at the Al Wadi Nature Reserve.