Source : WAM
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) wrapped up a successful participation at Fitur 2026 in Madrid, underscoring its commitment to culture-driven tourism and long-term partnerships with the global travel trade.
Widely regarded as a key platform for the international tourism industry, Fitur brought together tourism boards, travel professionals and industry leaders from major inbound and outbound markets.
During the event, DCT Abu Dhabi highlighted the diversity of the emirate’s tourism offering, from Emirati culture and heritage to adventure, luxury, entertainment, gastronomy, year-round attractions and world-class hospitality.
At Fitur 2026, DCT Abu Dhabi received two significant industry honours. Abu Dhabi was named ‘Destination of the Year’ by the Confederación Española de Agencias de Viajes (CEAV), earning recognition as a Premium Destination.
The award was presented at the CEAV stand, where CEAV President Carlos Garrido de la Cierva announced the CEAVPROTUR training programme for 2026 and praised Abu Dhabi as a leading international premium destination.
Additionally, DCT Abu Dhabi was presented with the Best Stand Award by IFEMA Madrid, one of only three international accolades granted at Fitur 2026. Abu Dhabi was recognised alongside Egypt and Guatemala, in acknowledgment of its exhibition design, storytelling and visitor engagement.
The CEAV award was accepted on behalf of Abu Dhabi by Abdulla Yousuf, Director of International Operations at DCT Abu Dhabi.
“Fitur continues to be an important platform for strengthening relationships with our international partners, particularly within the Spanish market. Being recognised by CEAV as a Premium Destination of the Year, alongside receiving IFEMA’s Best Stand Award, is a meaningful endorsement of Abu Dhabi’s culture-led tourism proposition and our collaborative approach with the travel trade,” said Yousuf.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s participation at Fitur reflected its continued investment in priority international markets, including Spain, and its commitment to close collaboration with partners to support shared growth.
The department was accompanied by a delegation representing key segments of Abu Dhabi’s tourism ecosystem. Hospitality partners included Yas Plaza Hotels, Aldhafra Resort, Vignette Collection, Le Royal Meridien Abu Dhabi, Sofitel, Masarra, City Seasons Hotels, Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi National Hotels.
Destination and experience partners were also present, including the museums of Saadiyat Cultural District Abu Dhabi, Etihad Spain, Tourism 365, Voyage Tours, and representatives from the Al Ain and Al Dhafra regions.
