The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) concluded its 68th Annual Convention and Exhibition in Abu Dhabi from September 17 to 19, 2025, leaving delegates with memories of a lifetime. Hosted in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the convention combined inspiring sessions, impactful discussions, enriching networking opportunities, cultural extravaganzas, and unforgettable experiences—raising the bar for future industry events.
With more than 540 delegates in attendance, the three-day convention was a splendid showcase of organisational excellence and innovation. What made the achievement truly remarkable was that the entire convention was conceptualised, planned, and executed in just six weeks —a feat widely described as seamless and extraordinary. The knowledge sessions, held at the elegant Al Bateen Ballroom of the Grand Hyatt Abu Dhabi, featured distinguished thought leaders and industry visionaries. Mr. Pieter Elbers, CEO of IndiGo Airlines, set the tone with an impactful opening keynote, while Ms. Alexis Guest, Vice President, Global Operators at Travelport, delivered a powerful address on the second day. The sessions stood out for their impeccable design, engaging topics, and outstanding participation.
Complementing the convention was TAAI’s B2B India Travel & Tourism Expo, which was a resounding success. Featuring 43 tabletop stalls, the expo attracted overwhelming footfall and generated exceptional business opportunities, with exhibitors unanimously praising the scale and response.
The opening ceremony was graced by senior dignitaries, including H.E. Saleh Al Geziry, Director General, Tourism Sector, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, H.E. Saeed Ali Al Fazari, Executive Director of Strategy Affairs, and Mr. Mubarak Hamad Al Shamsi, Director, Abu Dhabi Conventions & Exhibition Bureau. Mr. A. Amarnath, Deputy Chief of Mission, Indian Embassy, Abu Dhabi, also addressed the gathering. Industry leaders, including airlines, hospitality partners, GDS organisations, tourism boards, and media stalwarts, further enriched the occasion.
A highlight of the event was the unveiling of TAAI’s Distinguished Leader Award of the Year, conferred on Mr. Zubin Karkaria, Founder & CEO of VFS Global, in recognition of his visionary leadership and invaluable contributions to the global travel and tourism industry.
Beyond business, the convention was marked by exceptional hospitality and cultural immersion. The grand inaugural ceremony took place at the iconic Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, while the farewell gala dazzled delegates at ONE OCEAN, SeaWorld Yas Island. A vibrant theme dinner at InterContinental Abu Dhabi celebrated unity and camaraderie, with all delegates sporting coordinated attire. The convention theme, Business with Goodness, was brought to life at the BAPS Temple Convention Hall, where His Holiness Swami Brahmaviharidas delivered an inspiring address. TAAI was privileged to present scrolls of honour to His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj and His Holiness Swami Brahmaviharidas.
Delegates also enjoyed curated experiences across Abu Dhabi, from the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi to Qasr Al Watan Palace, teamLab Phenomena, and the National Aquarium. The program concluded with a two-night post-convention tour of Al Ain, offering yet another memorable chapter in this milestone event.
Speaking on the success of the convention, TAAI leadership emphasised that the 68th edition was not just an event, but a statement of excellence, innovation, and collaboration. With its seamless execution, impactful programming, and cultural vibrancy, the Abu Dhabi convention has set a new global benchmark for industry gatherings.