FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Umrah+ Connect B2B Travel Trade Show Celebrates Record-Breaking Success in London
London, 5th November 2024 – The Umrah+ Connect B2B Travel Trade Show, held on 4th November at the 5-Star InterContinental London – the 02, concluded with remarkable success, drawing an unprecedented number of trade registrations and visitors from around the UK, Europe, USA, Australia, Africa and Middle East. The event served as an essential platform for industry professionals, showcasing innovations and opportunities within the Umrah and Islamic travel sectors, and highlighting the importance of international collaboration in elevating the pilgrim experience.
High-profile attendees included H.E. Dr. Alhassan Manakhara, the Deputy Minister for Hajj and Umrah with a mandate for International Collaborations, and H.E. Mohammed Ismail, CEO of the Pilgrim Experience Program. Both dignitaries emphasized the vital role of public and private partnerships in enriching the pilgrimage experience and fostering growth in the Islamic travel market.
One of the standout sessions at this year’s event was a Head-to-Head interview between Mr. Majid Khan, CEO of the Saudi Air Connectivity Program, and award-winning British journalist and producer Tasnim Nazeer. This in-depth conversation explored Saudi Arabia’s expanding air connectivity strategies, aimed at facilitating access for millions of pilgrims and visitors each year. Mr. Khan shared insights into the ambitious plans that are aligning the Kingdom’s air infrastructure with the broader goals of Vision 2030, including how enhanced connectivity is pivotal in supporting the pilgrim experience and boosting Islamic tourism.
A MOU signing ceremony took place between Umrah+ Connect and Saudi Trips by Almatar, marking a promising new phase of collaboration aimed at enhancing business development and marketing efforts for both organisations.
This partnership reflects a shared vision to promote religious tourism and improve services for travelers, particularly those seeking an enriched Umrah experience.
A highlight of the event was the recognition of key sponsors whose contributions were instrumental in bringing this year’s event to fruition. Their support enabled an expanded platform that facilitated business growth, networking, and industry-leading discussions that are set to influence the direction of Islamic travel in the years to come.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming response and success of Umrah+ Connect 2024,” said Fazila Mohamed, Events Director. “The record-breaking attendance and engagement demonstrate a strong, unified interest in the future of Umrah and Islamic tourism. We’re grateful to our sponsors and partners and look forward to continuing this momentum.”
The Platinum sponsors this year were Taiba Investments and Makkah Hotel & Towers. Gold Sponsors were Al-Balad Hospitality by Al-Balad Development Company, Hajj and Umrah tour operator Mawasim, which is part of Almosafer, and Aston Hotels by ABT Hospitality. Aroya Cruises was the event partner.
This year’s event featured numerous exhibitors and a workshop held by the Pilgrim Experience Program. With the enthusiastic feedback received, Umrah+ Connect has solidified its place as a leading B2B event for the Umrah and Hajj sectors, setting the stage for continued growth and collaboration in 2025 and beyond.
For more information on Umrah+ Connect or to inquire about next year’s event, please visit https://umrahconnect.org or contact info@umrahconnect.org .