The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced that Abu Dhabi has been selected to host the SITE Global Conference 2026, the first time the incentive travel conference will be held in the Middle East. The selection reinforces Abu Dhabi’s growing prominence as a meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) destination.
Mubarak Al Shamisi, Director of Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau at DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “Welcoming the SITE Global Conference to Abu Dhabi in 2026 is a milestone that underscores our emirate’s growing stature as a premier destination for business events and incentive travel. This achievement reflects our strategic commitment to building a world-class MICE ecosystem offering cutting-edge event infrastructure and exceptional hospitality, complemented by Abu Dhabi’s iconic hotels, diverse venues and wide range of leisure attractions, making it the ideal destination for incentive travel programmes. We look forward to hosting SITE attendees and showcasing the very best of what the emirate has to offer.”
Abu Dhabi has emerged as a leading MICE destination, driven by strategic investments in infrastructure and a growing portfolio of venues such as Qasr Al Watan and Yas Marina Circuit. The emirate’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and cultural preservation further enhances its appeal to event organisers, topping the International Congress and Convention Association’s (ICCA) 2022 ranking for association meetings in the Middle East.
A key force in the global MICE industry, the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) hosts its annual Global Conference as a cornerstone event for the incentive travel sector. The conference serves as a platform to educate, connect, and empower professionals, fostering business growth while highlighting the role of incentive travel in strengthening relationships worldwide.
Annette Gregg, CEO of SITE, said: “Abu Dhabi is the perfect embodiment of an incentive ready destination. With its world-class hotels, state-of-the-art conference facilities, and a vibrant tapestry of cultural experiences, this dynamic city sets a new benchmark for excellence in the incentive travel industry. We are thrilled to host SITE Global Conference 2026 here, where innovation meets tradition, ensuring an unforgettable experience for our global community.”
Incentive travel, a key component of the MICE industry, is a powerful tool for motivating and rewarding employees, partners, and customers. Abu Dhabi’s diverse range of experiences, from desert adventures and cultural immersion to luxury accommodations and vast dining options, makes it an ideal destination for creating memorable and impactful incentive programmes. Recognising the potential of incentive travel, DCT Abu Dhabi continues to drive initiatives such as the Advantage Abu Dhabi incentive programme, which provides comprehensive support to event organisers.
Building on these efforts, DCT Abu Dhabi is committed to working closely with SITE to ensure the success of the SITE Global Conference 2026, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier destination for incentive travel and MICE events.
