Why Abu Dhabi?

By Khalifa Al Qubaisi, Chief Commercial Officer of ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
Did you know that…?

The ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi is the only large-scale event venue in the Middle East supplied entirely by clean energy and ideal for international associations that are eco-conscious and committed to achieving sustainability goals.

ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi also provides a VAT exemption on venue space for international customers, making it a financially attractive destination for associations hosting large-scale events. Additionally, unlike many global cities, Abu Dhabi offers a tax-free environment for international conferences, with no Tourism Tax on registration fees for international attendees.

Abu Dhabi has also been ranked as the world’s safest city for the ninth consecutive year thanks to its strong emphasis on security, infrastructure and community well-being.

Help for international associations?

With the support of the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi internal teams and the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT), international associations receive one-stop-shop support from strengthening their bid to in-house support organizing the event.

The ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi’s team connects associations with local partners in the UAE, also provides in-house catering by Capital Catering, world-class event management through Capital 360 Event Experiences and government protocol support through Capital Protocol for VIP delegations and official visits to ensure a successful event experience.

Additionally, DCT’s Advantage Abu Dhabi programme provides international events that align to the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 with startup financial grants, government endorsement, leadership patronage, cost rebates and marketing support among others.

Where to meet?

ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi offers the International Convention Centre (ICC), a premium venue for medium to large conferences. The ICC features two spacious conference halls, 21 meeting rooms, and access to The Hive — an award-winning space designed for attendees to connect, create and collaborate.

With the expertise of the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi team, the venue has become one of the region’s leading event destinations, hosting conferences for up to 6,000 attendees in the ICC and up to 12,000 when utilising combined spaces. The centre boasts over 156,000 square metres of indoor and outdoor flexible exhibition space, 13 column-free halls, and the ADNEC Marina Hall, offering versatile solutions for associations of all sizes.

Where to stay?

With seven on-site hotels including the ADNEC Group owned 5-star Andaz Capital Gate Abu Dhabi and 4-star Aloft Hotels connected to the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi via internal walkways, the venue offers organizers and delegates over 2,150 hotel rooms, as well as excellent dining options within walking distance of the venue. ADNEC is also within reach of 138 other hotels, offering more than 30,000 hotel rooms across the city.

How to reach Abu Dhabi?

With half the world’s population within a five-hour flight and Etihad Airways connecting to over 90 destinations, Abu Dhabi is strategically positioned as a global hub for international events. The emirate offers flexible visa regulations to facilitate seamless access for delegates and conference participants ensuring a smooth and efficient entry process.

As one of the world’s most accessible venues, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi is just 15 minutes from the rapidly expanding Abu Dhabi International Airport. As well as being recognised for its safety, Abu Dhabi is a thriving business and tourism hub, offering a dynamic knowledge economy, world-class infrastructure and diverse cultural attractions.

Somewhere special?

As the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi comprises over 200 islands. Visitors can explore its diverse landscapes, from deserts to lush greenery and pristine coastlines, while also enjoying its vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere and world-class attractions.

Tourism 365, the tourism arm of ADNEC Group, simplifies travel arrangements for authentic cultural experiences and excursion programmes, transforming any conference into an immersive journey. Attendees can choose from over 100 excursions, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites, ancient agricultural villages and desert safaris. They can also explore the award-winning Louvre Abu Dhabi, the soon-to-open Guggenheim Museum and the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

Whom to contact?

To learn more about why Abu Dhabi is the premier destination for international associations, contact Visit Abu Dhabi or the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi sales team at sales.enquiries@adnec.ae to explore world-class facilities and learn why Abu Dhabi should be at the top of your site-selection list.


This text is part of UIA's World of Associations
Issue #16 – April 2025