Dubai will be the host state of the Global Travel & Tourism Summit taking place on April 20-22 2008.

At the official launch, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline & Group and Geoffrey Kent, Chairman of WTTC and Chairman & CEO of Abercrombie & Kent signed an accord establishing the industry's most significant public-private partnership.

This partnership, comprising the Government of Dubai, Emirates, Jumeirah, Nakheel and WTTC, will guide the development of the Summit; an event which will bring industry and government leaders together in Dubai to discuss the priorities for the world's largest generator of jobs and prosperity - Travel & Tourism.

His Highness welcomed WTTC and its Members to Dubai and expressed his vision for working together with international Travel & Tourism leaders to host the Summit which, he affirmed, would be a forum that would shape the future of the global industry.

Geoffrey Kent said "Dubai is the world's leading example of a state that has successfully embraced Travel & Tourism as a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity. The government of Dubai is to be applauded for its long-term vision and commitment."

Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing Director General, Khalid Bin Sulayem spoke of the common understanding of the Government of Dubai and WTTC "our shared vision for Travel & Tourism and the partnership formed here today will help build on the success of previous Summits. We look forward to welcoming world leaders and the international media at the Summit."

WTTC President Jean-Claude Baumgarten added "Encouraged by WTTC's signature 'in the round' format, the active participation of all delegates and the frank exchange of ideas from all countries of the world will influence decisions taken by industry leaders, assuring a long-term and responsible view of Travel & Tourism. The Summit in Dubai will provide the ideal platform to broadcast the unity of our leaders in ensuring a sustainable future."