IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, has announced the inaugural IAAPA Expo Middle East, set to take place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from 30 March to 2 April 2026.
As with IAAPA’s three current trade exhibitions across the world, participants will gain exclusive insights into the business through behind-the-scenes tours, educational sessions with renowned speakers, and networking opportunities with important industry leaders. A sizable trade show floor will also showcase the newest innovations and trends in the attractions sector.
By introducing this new Expo, IAAPA is responding to demands from operators, exhibitors, and other members to provide the area with a high-quality event that offers a robust educational program, networking opportunities, and backstage experiences. Every year, IAAPA Expo Middle East will relocate to a new venue in the region to guarantee extensive coverage and participation.
IAAPA Expo Middle East begins in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has become a top destination in the attractions industry. The city’s status as a centre for leisure and entertainment is further enhanced by the opening of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the first SeaWorld Park outside of the United States, and the expansion of Wild Wadi Waterpark.
Future tourist destinations like the much-awaited TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Natural History Museum are expected to bring in millions of tourists and increase Abu Dhabi’s appeal worldwide. These changes are part of a larger plan to establish Abu Dhabi as a premier travel and cultural destination.
Jakob Wahl, president and CEO of IAAPA, says: “We are thrilled to bring IAAPA Expo to the Middle East. This region is experiencing tremendous growth and innovation, and we are eager to support and elevate the industry here. Our expo will provide a platform for networking, learning, and discovering new opportunities. We look forward to creating a valuable experience for all attendees and participants and are enthusiastic about hosting the very first edition of this annual event in Abu Dhabi.”
Mubarak Al Shamisi, director of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, says: “We are thrilled to host the first edition of IAAPA Expo Middle East here in Abu Dhabi, a testament to the city’s status as a global hub for business, tourism and entertainment. There is such tremendous opportunity emerging in the Middle East, and IAAPA will build a bridge for players across the attractions and leisure industry to share knowledge, collaborate, and innovate.
“The event will help boost collective economic growth and highlight Abu Dhabi’s commitment to elevating and advancing the emirate’s tourism sector – led by our Tourism Strategy 2030.”
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral Group, adds: “We are delighted to welcome IAAPA Middle East to Abu Dhabi. This event aligns with our vision of positioning Abu Dhabi and Yas Island as top global destinations for entertainment and leisure.
“This event is a great platform that brings together the most influential industry leaders from across the globe, fostering collaboration and showcasing the Emirate’s attractions, world-class theme parks and cutting-edge experiences. Bringing this event to Abu Dhabi is yet another testament to its growing position as a global tourism hub.”
The announcement was made at IAAPA Expo Europe 2024, which is taking place this week in Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
