Conference Programme

The Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

Travel & Tourism is - for many people around the world - a basic human right, as fundamental to their lives as food, shelter and freedom. And, with growth projections based on increasing levels of wealth across the world, the phenomenon of Travel & Tourism is called to play an even more significant role in our lives and our societies.

The Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

Increasingly in today's world, influences from economic / political / environmental / social changes now routinely interact at an international level, and determine the context in which everyone has to operate. A mature international sector such as Travel & Tourism has to take this seriously in its own planning and policy development.

The Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

Joharah Ballroom

Industry leaders are increasingly defined by their success in harnessing technological advances and human creativity to innovate new and responsible answers to global challenges. What can Travel & Tourism learn from the leaders of global industry?  

The Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

Against the background of a more complex world, long-term vision is vital for continued success. With the right sort of planning, investment, cooperation and partnerships, the right answers can be found.  This is a challenge to which the Travel & Tourism sector can rise, but cannot fully respond to if it operates on its own. Governments too must play a role. They can contribute to a predictable environment, and to providing the infrastructure for the right sort of continued development. All this leaves open the question of what is 'right'. Any form of development must take account of sustainability, the environment, and of other costs. And infrastructure must be developed and improved without making it so exclusive that tourism is reduced to being the preserve of the few.

What are the 'right' approaches that can balance opportunity and freedom to travel with sustainability and economics? What are the 'right' roles for governments, for industry, and for investors? 

The Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

Cocktail Reception - 20:15 - 21:00

Gala Dinner - 21:00 - 22:30

The Dubai Host Committee and WTTC invite you to attend the Summit Gala Dinner, which this year will have a truly Arabian flavour, taking place deep in the desert at the spectacular 'Fort Lisaili'. The evening will include the presentation event for the Tourism for Tomorrow Awards 2008 in association with Travelport.

Coaches will depart from the Madinat Jumeirah complex at 19:15. The dress code for the Gala Dinner is cocktail attire. Please bear in mind that Fort Lisaili is a 'desert camp' and appropriate footwear is advisable. 

There are challenges in the broader world around us and in the immediate world of Travel & Tourism. But, thanks the inexhaustible initiative and imagination of the sector, it is constantly coming up with new answers. This session showcases some of the most striking examples.

The Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

The Travel & Tourism sector's ability to look ahead and to adapt has made it what it is. The same is true for forward-looking destinations like Dubai. But now, at a period that is simultaneously more challenging and that offers more opportunity, it is time for a more conscious and strategic commitment to working for the future of the sector and of the global community. What is the vision of leaders for their companies, the Travel & Tourism industry and nations worldwide?

The Arena, Madinat Jumeirah

Joharah Ballroom