Qatar Airways joins global industry body

Qatar Airways has become a member of the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), the leading international industry body promoting the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector. The ICCA membership will benefit the airline in promoting its business in Qatar and as a global carrier flying MICE traffic to destinations around the world, the Doha-based carrier said Sunday in a media statement. The ICCA is one of the most prominent associations in the MICE sector with over 900 members across 90 countries worldwide. Its members comprise leading specialists in the MICE industry, including handling, transportation and accommodation experts. The announcement comes as Qatar Airways prepares to take part in the world's leading meetings, events and exhibitions trade show, IMEX, taking place in Frankfurt from May 22 to 24. Qatar Airways will have a dedicated exhibition stand (E625) at IMEX in Frankfurt this week with strong representation from the airline’s local and global sales team who will be able to engage in dialogue with MICE organisers from around the world for new business opportunities. The airline currently operates to over 100 key business and leisure destinations across Europe, Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific, North America and South America flying a modern fleet of more than 100 aircraft. With a network that is growing at a phenomenal rate, MICE operators will have a wider choice of destinations to choose from as the airline not only introduces new routes, but also provides delegates with greater flexibility with increased frequency. As part of its bid to venture further into the MICE business, the Doha-based airline has been actively involved in promoting Qatar as an international MICE destination. Qatar Airways works closely with its inbound destination management arm Discover Qatar to promote the airline's Doha hub, as well as the hospitality business in Qatar as a year round market. The airline is capitalising on the burgeoning hospitality sector in the State of Qatar, encouraging event organisers and related MICE companies to bring their business to the Gulf state to enjoy a grand experience.