In the bustling heart of Moscow, from the 6th to the 8th of October, an extraordinary international event unfolded – the Meet Global MICE Congress. This colossal gathering transcended borders and united over 300 luminaries from the travel industry representing 14 countries, with India, China, and several Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian nations prominently featured. The Congress stood out as a pivotal platform for fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
Key Highlights of Global MICE Congress
The event comprised an extensive array of business-oriented activities, including enriching business sessions, thought-provoking discussions, spirited debates, and productive B2B negotiations. Within these activities, participants delved into an assortment of topics, ranging from what cities should emphasize to attract business tourists to the unique preferences of this discerning group of travellers. There was also a profound exploration of the potential growth opportunities nestled within the MICE industry.
Moscow’s Pivotal Role in Business Tourism
The development of business tourism holds significant importance for Moscow, as it contributes to one-fifth of all tourist footfall in the capital. Interestingly, Indian visitors emerge as the third-largest group of business travellers from outside the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
According to Evgeny Kozlov, Chairman of the Moscow City Tourism Committee, “Moscow stands as a flourishing business hub, replete with the essential infrastructure to host international business events. In the first half of 2023, a staggering two million business travellers graced the city – marking a remarkable 10% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, the segment of business travel has not only rebounded to pre-COVID levels but has soared beyond them.”
Simultaneously, Moscow is executing a multitude of initiatives aimed at elevating its allure for tourists. The Moscow City Tourism Committee has forged collaborative partnerships with travel agencies, ensuring a consistent and substantial influx of tourists into the city.
Ashis K. Das, representing Wanderers Leisure Travels Pvt. Ltd., shared his insights, stating, “I’ve been to Moscow on numerous occasions, and I can affirm that in recent years, the city has witnessed a remarkable transformation. Moscow has embraced development in various domains, such as digital innovation, technology, gastronomy, and infrastructure. The Russian capital now presents exceptional opportunities and high-quality offerings for both business and leisure travellers from India. Furthermore, Moscow is an exceptionally secure city, guaranteeing a worry-free stay for all.”
Moscow’s Alluring Business Services
Moscow offers a diverse spectrum of services meticulously designed to cater to the diverse needs of business travelers. Moreover, the city boasts a well-established congress and exhibition infrastructure. With more than 30 venues capable of hosting substantial congresses, exhibitions, and business events, accommodating over 40,000 individuals, Moscow certainly impresses. Additionally, the city features a rich tapestry of amenities, including a selection of 1,900 hotels and a tantalizing array of 18,500 cafes and restaurants across various segments. To further enhance the experience, Moscow has thoughtfully provided English signage at key locations, ensuring the utmost comfort and convenience for its guests.
E-Visas: Simplifying Travel for Indian Tourists
Russia introduced e-visas in August, extending this convenience to citizens of 55 countries, including India. The data from the inaugural month alone indicates that over 30,000 tourists have availed of this service. An e-visa is valid for 60 days from its issuance and allows tourists to stay in Russia for up to 16 days. The e-visa offers numerous advantages over traditional visas, as it eliminates the need for consulate or embassy visits, requiring only a digital photograph of your face and a scan of your passport data page.
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