Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), the region’s premier event organizer and operator of the largest exhibition venue in the Middle East, won two coveted events industry honours at Wednesday night’s 2010 Middle East Event Awards. In yet another endorsement of its stellar reputation within the region’s event industry, DWTC beat a number of renowned industry professionals to scoop the title of the Middle East’s Best Purpose-Built Events Venue as well as the Best Trade Exhibition – Gulfood.

Recognising and rewarding excellence in the region’s event industry for the last three years, the IIR organised Middle East Event Awards is one of the most sought after honours in the industry. With votes cast by key industry players from across the region, tribute was paid to DWTC for the fundamental role it has played in providing the Middle East’s exhibitions and events industry with the very best facilities and support. DWTC was also acknowledged for its significant contribution to the regional event’s sector with Gulfood being awarded as the best trade exhibition in the region in 2009.

Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO of Dubai World Trade Centre said: ‘DWTC is riding the wave of an extremely successful awards season, having already taken home two leading World Travel Awards earlier this month. Winning these two additional accolades further highlights Dubai’s position as a pioneering hub for events in the region and reinforces our reputation as the region’s leading provider of best in class facilities and services. These awards are a result of unwavering dedication by DWTC employees and partners and testament to our efforts in driving development of the region.”

 Gulfood, the region’s premier food, drink, foodservice and hospitality exhibition this year boasted an 18 per cent growth in visitor traffic. A total of 55,379 trade visitors from over 153 countries attended the four-day culinary showcase, providing an invaluable networking platform for 3,500 exhibitors from 81 countries, and making it one of the biggest food shows in the world.

DWTC’s best in class facilities that include the recently completed Sheikh Saeed Halls and the region’s largest indoor multi-purpose venue – Trade Centre Arena – were recognised through the award for ‘Best Purpose-Built Events Venue.’ DWTC continues to support the growth of the events sector through its world class infrastructure, facilities and services to meet the industry’s growing demand, with a total of one million square feet of covered exhibition space.

Having welcomed over 1.24 million visitors to its venues in 2009, a twelve percent increase despite global economic indicators; DWTC has been a major contributor to the growing trade and tourism in Dubai. Following its strong performance in 2009, DWTC will continue to work towards sustaining and growing its current 1-1.5% contribution to Dubai’s GDP.