The World is Heading to Aqaba: DWP Congress 2025 to Redefine Luxury Destination Weddings

The 11th Annual Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress is set to host up to 500 elite wedding industry leaders from over 70 countries in Aqaba, Jordan, from October 7 to 9, 2025.

Organized by QnA International, the Congress is held in crucial partnership with the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) and the Jordan Tourism Board (JTB). This three-day event is designed to be a convergence of visionaries in a city where ancient heritage, bold modernity, and world-class hospitality seamlessly unite along the Red Sea coast.

The event will take place under the esteemed patronage of His Excellency Dr. Emad Hejazeen, Jordan's Minister of Tourism and Antiquities.

Vision and Opportunity

Sidh N.C., Director of QnA International, emphasized the significance of the location: "The DWP Congress is where vision meets opportunity. This year, Aqaba offers not only breathtaking landscapes but a cultural and luxury tapestry that reflects the essence of Jordan itself. Under the vision of ASEZA and the partnership with JTB, the city is ready to show the world its full potential as a destination for unforgettable celebrations."

Read: Interview: Stepping into a New Decade - Key Themes and Vision for DWP 2025 in Aqaba

Content & Program Highlights: Stepping into a New Decade

The 11th annual Congress is built around the forward-looking theme: "Stepping into A New Decade of Destination Weddings" reflecting the industry's evolution and future challenges.

The content agenda will be focused on elevation and innovation, featuring discussions on:

Business insights and strategies for generating loyal customer revenue streams.
New-age unions, destination, and pricing strategies.
The importance of timelessness over fleeting trends and understanding the nuances of couture weddings.
Managing sensitive topics like client privacy and NDAs.
Factoring in the emotional journey of planners to create extraordinary client experiences.

Prominent Speakers addressing the audience include the crème de la crème of the global destination wedding industry:

Sharon Sacks
Julian Posner
Vandana Mohan
Terrica
Ziad Raphael Nassar
Mauricio Kirschner
Sumant Jayakrishnan
AI expert for wedding planners, Sasha Mekhedova, leading a session on leveraging AI and data to elevate brand and market presence.

Unmatched Networking

Beyond the main panel discussions and structured B2B meetings, the Congress is designed to maximize targeted connections. Delegates will have over 30+ hours of dedicated networking across the three days, including:

Evening functions (Welcome Cocktail Reception, Gala Dinner, Closing Cocktail Night).
Informal sessions such as coffee breaks and networking luncheons.

The Host Venues: A Canvas of Luxury

The Congress will be hosted at the visionary waterfront development Ayla Oasis and the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort. These partners highlight Aqaba's dual appeal:

Sahl Dudin of Ayla Oasis, Host Venue Partner, shared: "We believe Jordan has a unique story to tell, and Ayla is the natural stage for that story. We are highlighting Ayla as Jordan’s coastal jewel, a place where couples can experience the Red Sea, Petra, and Wadi Rum, all while celebrating in a refined setting.”
Wissam Hodroj of Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort, Host Hotel Partner, added: "We look forward to highlighting Jordan as a premier destination for luxury and memorable weddings. Every element of our venue reflects our commitment to extraordinary celebrations."

La Plage

The Jordanian Essence: Culture and Experience

For many industry leaders, the appeal of Aqaba lies in its unique cultural depth and the diversity of experiences available, which offers a powerful alternative to typical urban wedding locations:

Majeda Kassir-Bisharat and Sewar Bisharat, Co-Founders of MY Event Design, expressed their pride in the event returning to their home country: "Partnering with the Congress now that it’s coming to Jordan feels very personal and special. We are proud to support an event that celebrates global excellence while shining a spotlight on our beautiful country."
Roberta Ventura, Founder of SEP Jordan, described the city’s profound character: "Aqaba is where heritage meets modernity… more than a destination; it’s an experience woven with meaning, beauty, and legacy."
Amin Kawar & Sons – Travel & Tourism noted the intimacy the location provides: "Unlike a large city, here guests remain connected. From seaside relaxation to adventures in Petra and Wadi Rum, Aqaba delivers an unforgettable journey."

World-Class Service & Cinematic Backdrops

The Congress promises a spectacular experience, thanks to a global and local lineup of vendors dedicated to high-end service and unique entertainment:

Saif Goussous of Romero Group confirmed the high culinary standards: "Our philosophy of authenticity and timeless elegance finds its perfect stage in Aqaba. Every dish tells a story, every flavor carries a legacy, turning a meal into a memory."
Sandra Brekke Ugelstad of Show De Vida (Northern European Entertainment) highlighted the scenic power: “Performing in the rawness of nature creates something rare and unforgettable."
Pervez Taufiq, Founder of P. Taufiq Photography, focused on the visual appeal: "Aqaba’s light, landscapes, and textures create an unmatched stage for storytelling."
Dina Anbar of Sinam Desert Resort concluded: "We look forward to sharing the magic of Wadi Rum where culture, nature, and elegance meet."

A Stellar Lineup of Supporting Partners

The success of the DWP Congress is made possible by an exceptional array of partners, ensuring every detail of the event is executed to the highest standard:

Welcome Experience Partner: Jordan Heritage Revival Company (JHRC)
Stationery Partner: Nahhal Printing Group
Gifting Partner: Decoration One Co. Ltd.
Bartending Partner: Bar Shivoo
Digital Invite Partner: RNM Design Studio
Bridal Accessories: La Marieè Headpieces and Accessories
Gala Dinner Visual Partner: Andrei Visuals
Make-up Artist and Hairstylist Partner: Faris and Hamzeh Beauty Saloon