TAAI delivers a Spectacular 68th TAAI Convention at Abu Dhabi.TAAI Redefines Convention Standards – A new Benchmark created!
The grand show at Abu Dhabi, hosted by TAAI at the 68th TAAI Convention and Exhibition from 17–19 September 2025, offered memories of a lifetime to all who attended. It was packed with inspiring sessions, impactful discussions, enriching networking opportunities, cultural extravaganzas, and unforgettable experiences that truly set a new benchmark for industry conventions.
With over 540 delegates in attendance, the 68th TAAI Convention was a splendid showcase of organisational excellence, marked by innovation and exceptional hospitality. What made this achievement truly remarkable was that the entire Convention was conceptualized, planned, and delivered in just six weeks—a feat that is nothing short of astounding.
Delegates described it as seamless, exceptional, and an event of true luxury. Team TAAI left no stone unturned in ensuring excellence, setting a new benchmark for conventions and elevating the 68th edition to an unprecedented level.
The two days of Knowledge Sessions witnessed an excellent turnout and featured distinguished speakers. Held in the exquisite Al Bateen Ballroom of the Grand Hyatt, Abu Dhabi, the sessions stood out for their elegant décor, impressive displays, and thoughtful design. Topics of deep relevance to the industry were presented by an array of outstanding achievers and thought leaders, leaving a lasting impact on the delegates.
Equally successful was TAAI’s B2B – India Travel & Tourism Expo, which turned out to be a houseful affair. With 43 stalls of tabletop spaces, the Expo generated an extraordinary buzz across both days. Exhibitors were unanimous in their praise, many remarking that they had never before seen such overwhelming foot traffic.
The Opening Ceremony shone with the presence of top leadership from the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and from the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
His Excellency Saleh Al Geziry, Director General, Tourism Sector, joined the inauguration’s ribbon-cutting.
His Excellency Saeed Ali Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategy Affairs, and Mr Mubarak Hamad Al Shamsi, Director, Abu Dhabi Conventions & Exhibition Bureau, addressed the Opening Ceremony.
Mr A Amarnath, the Dy. Chief of Mission, Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi, who addressed the Opening Ceremony, and Mr Zubin Karkaria, Founder & CEO of VFS Global, graced the occasion.
At the Convention, TAAI proudly unveiled its new Distinguished Leader Award of the Year, presented to Mr Zubin Karkaria, CEO of VFS Global, in recognition of his visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and remarkable contributions to the industry.
The Knowledge Sessions opened with inspiring insights from Mr Peiters Elbers, CEO of IndiGo Airlines, offering invaluable Perspectives that energised and informed the delegates. On the Second day of the Knowledge Sessions, Ms Alexis Guest, Vice President, Global Operators, Travelport, delivered an excellent keynote address.
The 68th TAAI Convention was hosted across some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmarks, each adding its own distinctive charm to the experience. The Inaugural Ceremony took place in the grand Ballroom of the majestic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, while the Farewell Gala dazzled delegates at the dazzling ONE OCEAN, SeaWorld Yas Island. A vibrant Theme Dinner, where delegates came together in unity sporting the same shirt, was hosted at the Intercontinental Abu Dhabi.
The Convention’s central theme, Business with Goodness, was brought to life in the serene atmosphere of the BAPS Temple Convention Hall, where His Holiness Swami Brahmaviharidas delivered an inspiring address. TAAI is honoured to have presented the Scrolls of Honour to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and His Holiness Swami Brahmaviharidas.
Delegates also enjoyed exclusive tours of Abu Dhabi’s cultural and architectural treasures, including Qasr Al Watan Palace, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, teamLab Phenomena, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the National Aquarium.
As a perfect finale, a post-Convention tour offered delegates a delightful two-night stay in Al Ain, adding yet another memorable dimension to this milestone event.
The entertainment across all three evenings was nothing short of spectacular—pulsating, vibrant, and truly exceptional. Delegates were treated to an eclectic mix of performances, including dynamic dance acts, live bands, accomplished singers, a talented women’s trio of musicians, a DJ, and much more, creating unforgettable party moments. The Ayyala Dance thrilled the crowd, drawing everyone into its vibrant rhythm.
Every aspect of the 68th TAAI Convention was thoughtfully curated, ensuring a perfect blend of knowledge, networking, culture, and celebration.
TAAI extends its heartfelt gratitude to our attendees, sponsors, speakers, media partners, and everyone whose support and participation made this Convention not only a resounding success but also a truly memorable experience.
