Exciting Return of the CVS – China Visitors Summit in Abu Dhabi
The China Visitors Summit (CVS), renowned as a vital platform for Chinese outbound travel, is set to make its return to Abu Dhabi on May 13 and 14, 2026. This premier event, taking place at the luxurious Rotana Saadiyat Island Resort, promises to connect Chinese travel buyers with international suppliers, enhancing the dynamics of global tourism.
A Proven Track Record
Launched in 2008, the CVS has become a staple in the travel industry, boasting over 40 successful events worldwide, including seven held in the UAE within the last decade. It has carved out a reputation as a key facilitator, linking notable Chinese travel buyers with global operators, thereby strengthening relationships and fostering business opportunities.
Targeted Engagement
The upcoming edition in Abu Dhabi will welcome 100 carefully selected buyers from the Chinese travel market, specifically from Mainland China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The participants encompass a mix of travel agents, tour operators, luxury agencies, corporate planners, and specialists dedicated to niches like adventure tourism, culinary experiences, and family travel. This diverse representation underscores the critical nature of the summit in shaping the future landscape of tourism.
Workshops Highlight Local Offerings
At the heart of the CVS are two dedicated workshop days aimed at enabling Abu Dhabi-based travel suppliers to engage with Chinese buyers through structured appointments. This setup facilitates direct dialogue, allowing suppliers to showcase their offerings—from hotels and museums to attractions and transportation options. By doing so, they can effectively highlight the unique experiences that Abu Dhabi offers.
Understanding the Market Potential
As the world’s largest source market for travel, China significantly impacts global tourism dynamics. In 2025, approximately 180 million Chinese travelers ventured abroad, contributing around $230 billion to the global economy. With nearly 200 million passport holders and over 21 million first-time passport issuances last year, China remains a powerhouse in outbound tourism, representing immense growth potential for travel destinations worldwide.
For Abu Dhabi, with its strong emphasis on family-friendly activities, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive Emirati experiences, the CVS serves as a vital conduit for engaging with influential Chinese decision-makers and building sustainable business relationships.
Collaborative Efforts Driving Success
Organized by the China i2i Group from Shanghai, the CVS operates in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism and the Al Ain Department of Culture and Tourism. This partnership not only elevates the event’s profile but also enhances its relevance within the context of Abu Dhabi’s evolving travel landscape.
Beyond the workshop sessions, delegates from China will embark on several site visits throughout Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. These excursions will include explorations of hotels, museums, and major attractions, designed to provide firsthand insights into the tourism infrastructure and activities that the emirate offers.
Preparing for Future Growth
With projections forecasting that Chinese tourism spending could soar to $400 billion by 2030, it is crucial for destinations to adopt effective strategies to harness this potential. This includes developing travel products tailored to Chinese audiences, investing in communication platforms like WeChat and Little Red Book, and equipping staff with cultural training to better understand Chinese preferences.
Insights from Industry Leaders
Alexander Glos, CEO of China i2i Group, remarked on the evolution of Abu Dhabi as a culturally rich destination. He emphasized that the CVS serves as a focused gateway for local suppliers to connect with qualified Chinese buyers. Glos noted, “With the rapid expansion of Chinese global travel, those who invest in relationships today will reap benefits in the form of sustained inbound growth in the future.”
Longstanding Contributions to Tourism
Since its establishment in 1999, China i2i Group has dedicated itself to helping global travel suppliers cultivate business from China. The organization collaborates with leading hospitality brands such as Rotana, Marriott, IHG, and Hyatt, alongside many international destinations, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a thriving tourism landscape.
