MICE Destination

Harare

Zimbabwe

Harare, the capital city of Zimbabwe, is an emerging destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism and business travel in Southern Africa. The city combines a growing business environment with cultural attractions, offering an attractive setting for both regional and international business events. With its strategic location, developing infrastructure, and diverse hospitality offerings, Harare is increasingly becoming a key player in the African business tourism sector.

Key Features of MICE Tourism and Business Travel in Harare:

1. Conference and Convention Centers:

Harare is home to a few established venues suitable for large-scale conferences, meetings, and exhibitions:

• Rainbow Towers Hotel & Conference Centre: A premier venue in Harare, it offers modern conference facilities, including large meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, and breakout areas. The hotel is renowned for hosting international conferences and corporate events.
• Meikles Hotel: Known for its luxury and excellent service, Meikles offers both meeting rooms and large venues for conferences and corporate events. It also provides a prestigious setting for business gatherings.
• Harare International Conference Centre: This venue is used for both international and regional conferences and has facilities for exhibitions and large meetings, making it ideal for business tourism in Harare.

2. Business and Corporate Events:

• International Conferences and Trade Shows: Harare is home to a range of business events, such as sector-specific conferences, exhibitions, and trade shows. Industries like agriculture, technology, mining, and tourism frequently hold major events in the city.
• Incentive Programs and Corporate Retreats: Harare offers a range of incentive travel options, including team-building activities, safaris, and cultural experiences, which are popular for corporate retreats and rewarding employees.
• Workshops, Seminars, and Networking Events: Harare frequently hosts workshops and seminars for professional development. There are also various business networking events, offering opportunities for international collaborations, partnerships, and growth.

3. Accommodation:

Harare provides a mix of international and locally-owned hotels, catering to the needs of business travelers. Many of these establishments offer business-focused services, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and conference facilities. Some notable hotels for business travelers include:

• Meikles Hotel: A 5-star hotel offering excellent facilities for business travelers, including meeting rooms, a business center, and high-end dining.
• The Rainbow Towers Hotel & Conference Centre: This luxurious hotel is known for its spacious meeting facilities and high-quality services, ideal for business events.
• Holiday Inn Harare: A more affordable option, this hotel offers business services and is located near the city's main commercial and diplomatic districts.

4. Transportation:

• Harare International Airport (Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport): The primary gateway for international travelers, Harare International Airport connects the city to key global destinations in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. It is the main entry point for business travelers coming to the city.
• Local Transportation: Harare has an improving infrastructure, with taxis, ride-hailing services, and private shuttles commonly used by business travelers. Many hotels also offer shuttle services to and from the airport.

5. Networking and Business Environment:

Harare serves as the economic and political center of Zimbabwe. The city is home to various business organizations, chambers of commerce, and government institutions that facilitate business growth and networking:

• The Zimbabwe Chamber of Commerce (ZCC)
• The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA)
• Confederation of Zimbabwe Industries (CZI)

These institutions play a pivotal role in supporting MICE tourism and creating opportunities for local and international businesses to network and collaborate.

6. Leisure Activities for Business Travelers:

Business travelers visiting Harare can also enjoy a range of leisure activities during their stay. Some of the top attractions include:

• Hwange National Park: A short flight from Harare, Hwange is one of Africa's premier wildlife reserves, offering excellent safari experiences and a chance to unwind after a business event.
• Lake Kariba: A popular weekend getaway from Harare, offering water sports, fishing, and wildlife safaris.
• National Gallery of Zimbabwe: Explore the rich cultural heritage of Zimbabwe with exhibitions that showcase traditional and contemporary Zimbabwean art.
• Chapman’s Peak and the Zimbabwe National Botanical Garden: Beautiful locations for relaxation and outdoor activities.

7. Safety and Security:

Harare is generally considered safe for business travelers, but like any large city, it's important to take standard safety precautions. Hotels and business venues often have enhanced security measures. Travelers should be aware of local customs and remain cautious in unfamiliar areas, particularly after dark.

Future Prospects:

Harare is steadily investing in its infrastructure, with plans for improvements in transportation, hospitality, and conference facilities. The growing interest in Zimbabwe's economic potential and natural resources means that Harare is poised to become an even more attractive destination for MICE tourism in the future. With international airlines increasing flight connections and the city’s rich cultural offerings, Harare is on track to become a key business tourism hub in Southern Africa.

Conclusion:

Harare is an up-and-coming destination for MICE tourism and business travel, offering excellent facilities for conferences, meetings, and corporate events. With its unique combination of business opportunities, natural beauty, and cultural experiences, Harare is becoming an increasingly attractive choice for business travelers seeking a diverse and rewarding experience in Southern Africa. Whether for international conferences, team-building retreats, or networking events, Harare is ready to host successful and memorable business events.