When the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) brought its trade roadshows to Hyderabad, Chandigarh, and Pune in April 2025, the response was overwhelming. More than 600 travel trade professionals from across the country turned up to engage with over 30 Abu Dhabi stakeholders, ranging from luxury hotels and airlines to cultural attractions and DMCs. The series was more than just a networking opportunity; it was a statement of intent.
Now, DCT Abu Dhabi is returning to India for the second leg of its 2025 roadshow series, with events scheduled from 8–12 September in New Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai. The goal: to build deeper partnerships, showcase the emirate’s ever-expanding tourism offerings, and equip Indian travel agents with fresh tools to sell Abu Dhabi more effectively.
India’s importance to Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector is growing rapidly. In 2024, Indian travellers accounted for 12 per cent of the emirate’s hotel guests, representing a remarkable 43 per cent year-on-year growth. The projection for 2025 is equally impressive: 400,000+ Indian visitors are expected by year’s end.
The roadshows will blend business-focused briefings with interactive experiences to keep participants engaged. Attendees can expect:
Destination showcases covering Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, adventure offerings, luxury resorts, and family attractions.
Interactive quizzes and photobooths to create a lively, memorable atmosphere.
Networking sessions where agents can connect directly with stakeholders such as Yas Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and premium hotel brands.
DCT Abu Dhabi is taking tangible steps to support the Indian travel trade:
Abu Dhabi Pass: A new tool offering bundled discounts and experiences, making it easier for travellers to explore the emirate affordably.
Destination Guides & Marketing Kits: Agents can customise ready-to-use materials for their promotions.
E-Learning Platform: Available in English and Hindi, the platform allows agents to become certified Abu Dhabi specialists, deepening their expertise.
Abu Dhabi’s charm lies in its ability to be many things simultaneously. For some travellers, it’s a hub of art and culture, with attractions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. For others, it’s a playground of adventure, from desert safaris to Formula 1 at Yas Marina Circuit. Families flock to its world-class theme parks, while luxury seekers indulge in five-star beachfront resorts.
By showcasing this breadth, the roadshows aim to continue positioning Abu Dhabi as a year-round, multi-segment destination for the Indian market.
The September events are not just about short-term gains. They are part of a long-term vision to integrate Abu Dhabi more deeply into India’s outbound travel patterns. As competition among global destinations intensifies, DCT Abu Dhabi is betting on relationship-building and consistent engagement to stay top-of-mind for Indian travellers.
With the roadshows spanning both established metros and emerging hubs earlier in the year, the strategy is clear: meet the trade where they are, give them the tools they need, and ensure Abu Dhabi remains a top recommendation for every kind of traveller, from honeymooners to multigenerational families.