The most significant of the new partnerships is a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between ICCA and international airline giant Emirates.
The partnership aims to “foster greater synergies” between commercial aviation and meetings and events. The collaboration will see both organisations work to improve connectivity between air travel and associations conferences and support destination development strategies. The partnership will also support knowledge exchange and capacity building for the global meetings industry.
“Our collaboration with Emirates will unlock new opportunities for our members and global stakeholders,” said ICCA CEO, Senthil Gopinath.
“Connectivity is key to successful association meetings and Emirates’ extensive network will be a game-changer in bridging destinations and advancing our shared vision for a thriving global events industry.”
The MoU was signed on the periphery of the Arabian Travel Market in late April.
“At Emirates, we recognise the vital role that business events play in connecting people, ideas and industries,” said Emirates’ executive vice president Nabil Sultan.
“Our new partnership with ICCA reflects Emirates’ commitment to strengthening Dubai’s position as a global MICE hub while supporting the wider travel and tourism sector.”
ICCA has also signed an MoU with the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA).
This second new partnership will provide support for members of both associations in relation to meetings and events, while also including shared business development, networking and education as well as promoting innovation and sustainability.
“Our partnership with WTCA is an exciting strategic development that will not only benefit all of our members but will advance our shared goals of creating global connections and opportunity for businesses and organisations around the world,” said Gopinath.
“We’re looking forward to collaborating and sharing resources with WTCA’s international network and working toward collectively advancing ICCA’s mission for mutually beneficial gains.”
Meanwhile, ICCA has also renewed its collaboration with the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE).
The latest iteration of the continuing partnership has a variety of focusses, including joint content development – including publications, research and education – and helping members of both associations navigate geopolitical challenges and generational change.
“ASAE’s collaboration with ICCA reflects a shared commitment to fostering a truly global association community,” said ASAE president and CEO Michelle Mason.
“By combining our strengths, we can co-create resources, share knowledge and support our members in navigating the complex challenges facing our sector – from geopolitical shifts to workforce evolution and emerging technologies.
“We look forward to working together to deliver meaningful value to the international business events ecosystem.”
