The direct economic impact of business events, including meetings and conventions, in the emirate of Abu Dhabi is expected to grow 7 percent annually over the next eight years, reaching US$1.4 billion by 2020, according to the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority. The figures were based on a survey by the authority; the study further revealed that in 2010 -- the latest year for which figures are available -- the total economic impact of business events in the emirate was US$657.5 million. The forecast was released yesterday at the Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings Exhibition, which ends today at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center.