Issam Kazim Recognized Among Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024
Dubai's continuous ascent as a top international travel destination has been fueled by Kazim's ability to combine innovation with smart alliances.
Hozpitality Group proudly honors Issam Kazim, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), as one of the Top 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2024.
With a wealth of experience across both government and private sectors, Kazim is a seasoned CEO who has been instrumental in shaping Dubai's global tourism landscape. His leadership at DCTCM, established in 2013, has been pivotal in building a dynamic team and a vast international network that has elevated Dubai's brand as a top global destination. Kazim has successfully overseen Dubai's branding, promotion, and marketing efforts, forging strategic global partnerships and fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders and investors.
Dubai's tourism sector has been on a remarkable trajectory under Kazim's leadership, marking an 11% increase in international overnight visitors in Q1 2024, with 5.18 million visitors gracing the emirate's shores. This surge follows a record-breaking year in 2023, where Dubai welcomed an unprecedented 17.15 million international overnight visitors, firmly establishing itself as a global tourism powerhouse.
Kazim's innovative approach to destination marketing has played a key role in these achievements. His groundbreaking campaigns, such as 'A Story Takes Flight' featuring Gwyneth Paltrow and '#BeMyGuest' with Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, have left a lasting impression worldwide. He has also developed advanced data-driven tools and expanded the "Visit Dubai" digital ecosystem to enhance the visitor experience.
In addition to his role at DCTCM, Kazim is a member of the Dubai Media Council and a leading voice in both the tourism and media sectors. Prior to his tenure at DCTCM, he served as Director of Commercials at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), where he launched high-profile events such as Dubai Music Week, further solidifying his expertise in tourism growth and event marketing.
Kazim's ability to blend innovation with strategic partnerships has driven Dubai's continued rise as a leading global destination.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE