Join the Cecil B. Day Hospitality Immersion in the UAE

March 14th - 22nd, 2026

Registration deadline: October 15th, 2025

Travel to the heart of global hospitality, the United Arab Emirates! Renowned for its luxury, world-class hotels and exceptional service standards, the UAE is the perfect destination to study the art of hospitality. On this immersive trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you’ll gain unique, behind-the-scenes insight into the operations, innovations and cultural influences that make this region a leader in the industry.

What to expect from your time in the UAE: 

  • Discover how the United Arab Emirates has transformed from vast deserts into thriving global hubs and learn what makes its hospitality sector world-renowned.

    • Engage in a cultural workshop will focus on how diverse customs, religions and traditions shape hospitality practices.

    • Connect with industry leaders to explore global tourism trends, innovative customer engagement strategies and the role of technology in shaping guest experiences.

    • Examine the power of personalization and how tailored amenities, services and promotions can elevate satisfaction and loyalty.

    • Tour luxury hotels and resorts to see firsthand how operations, design and service excellence set the global standard for hospitality.

    • Learn about sustainability initiatives in the UAE, including eco-friendly tourism practices, green architecture and efforts to balance luxury with environmental responsibility.

  • While Dubai and Abu Dhabi are true melting pots of global influences, Emirati traditions offer a unique charm all their own. During your study trip, you’ll:

    • Feel the warmth of local hospitality on guided city tours and visits to cultural landmarks.

    • Indulge in authentic, local flavors at a traditional Emirati welcome dinner, featuring dishes like harees, machboos and tharid.

    • Marvel at iconic architecture in Abu Dhabi as you explore the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the majestic Qasr Al Watan presidential palace.

    • Embark on a desert adventure, from dune bashing to visiting a Bedouin village for an unforgettable glimpse into desert life.

For a day-by-day rundown of the trip, download the full itinerary here

What’s included?

ISP co-created this immersion trip with Georgia State University to cover all your basic needs throughout the trip. Pick-up at the airport, accommodation, immersion activities and on-the-ground logistics are all included. Our program team will be with you at every step of the journey. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll get when signing up for the trip:

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    • Accommodation in 4* hotels with breakfast

    • Airport pick-up and drop off

    • Guide for selected activities

    • A traditional welcome dinner

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    • 8 Company visits

    • 9 Cultural activities

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    • A dedicated Program Manager traveling with you

    • The Travel Zone app, an all-in-one app with all the essential travel information to enhance your experience

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat, Oman, with white domes, minaret, and intricate architecture under a clear blue sky.
Skyscrapers and high-rise buildings in Dubai, with the Burj Khalifa in the center, under a clear blue sky, with roads and highways in the foreground.
Modern cityscape with a futuristic building featuring Arabic calligraphy, surrounded by tall skyscrapers, palm trees, and parked cars.
A market stall display with woven baskets and open containers filled with various dried herbs, spices, and botanicals.

Don’t miss out on this immersive study program to the United Arab Emirates!

For more information and questions, please contact Program Directors Dr. Soon Ho Kim and Chau Nguyen.

Registration closes on October 15th, 202th