Third Place 2025

IAAPA Expo Asia 2026 takes place from 9 to 12 June at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, bringing together professionals from across the global attractions industry under the theme "Pursue the Wonder".

As a global hub for innovation and creativity and home to world-class attractions, Hong Kong is an ideal host for the conference.

The Ocean Park Tower at Ocean Park Hong Kong, one many popualr attractions in the area

“This year’s show reflects the incredible momentum driving the Asia-Pacific region,” says Jack Chan, executive director and vice president, IAAPA Asia Pacific.

“Across APAC, we’re seeing the type of investments into new attractions that will lead to elevated guest experiences. Returning to host Expo Asia in Hong Kong creates more opportunities for professionals to learn, grow, and implement best practices.”

Tours, talks, and more

The education conference will host over 20 EDUSessions focused on major trends influencing the future of the attractions industry. Topics include artificial intelligence, operational excellence, workforce development, retail, food and beverage strategies, revenue optimisation, and other relevant areas.

Industry leaders and experts will present case studies, best practices, and insights to help attractions professionals adapt to evolving consumer expectations in a rapidly changing environment.

Education will also go beyond the convention centre with IAAPA’s EDUTours, providing exclusive behind-the-scenes access to attractions and developments across Hong Kong, including Ocean Park Hong Kong, Kidztopia, Kai Tak Sports Park, and Qingyuan Chimelong International Forest Resort.

A view of the city's skyline from the Sky100 Hong Kong observation experience

The trade show runs from June 10 to 12 and showcases over 300 exhibiting companies. It will highlight innovative safety features, advancements in artificial intelligence, immersive designs, and sustainable practices.

Exhibitors will spotlight products and investments that are fueling growth in theme parks, water parks, family entertainment centres, museums, zoos, aquariums, and resorts.

A new Connections Hub will debut at this show, acting as a space for networking and knowledge sharing to foster collaboration among industry professionals.

Designed for operators, it will feature interactive discussions, peer learning sessions, and conversations to address practical operational challenges faced by attractions in the region.

Highlights from the IAAPA Expo Asia 2026 agenda

Tuesday 9 June

One highlight on Tuesday morning will be Beyond the Visit: Creating Lasting Emotional Engagement Through Guest Experience.

In this session, Alan Kwok and Olivia Kang of Shanghai Disney Resort, Anthony Blitch of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and Edith Lam of Universal Beijing Resort will share perspectives from their parks on how thoughtfully designed guest experiences and everyday interactions help build emotional bonds.

A view of Shanghai Disneyland at nighttime. Speakers from Shanghai Disneyland Resort will share their insights at IAAPA Expo Asia 2026 Image courtesy of Shanghai Disneyland

Other sessions focus on training and safety essentials, followed by an afternoon interactive session called Strategic Risk Management. This session covers strategic risk management across the attractions industry, from concept and design to operations and long-term planning.

Speakers include Zishan Amir of ZRG Adventures and Consulting, Yik Ho from Galaxy Macau, and Hui Chen from PGAV.

In From Vision to Reality: Developing Integrated Resorts, Yael Coifman from Leisure Development Partners, Kevin Benning from Studio City Macau, and Linda Hung from FORREC will highlight the operator’s priorities, the design perspective, and the market validation stage.

Wednesday 10 June

After Wednesday morning's Opening Ceremony, and the official opening of the trade show floor, Marilyn Tham of the Hong Kong Tourism Board presents Reimagining Travel: APAC Tourism Trends and Hong Kong in Action

This examines the changing factors influencing tourism throughout the Asia-Pacific, one of the quickest-recovering and most vibrant travel regions worldwide

During the morning, attendees can choose from insightful sessions such as The AI Frontier: What’s Next for Immersive Experiences and Designing Animal Interactions that Inspire Conservation and Protect Welfare.

Plus, How HKSTP Powers the Attractions Industry Through an Innovation Ecosystem brings together Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks and three pioneering tech ventures to share how HKSTP fosters innovation in the attractions industry through strategic partnerships with key industry players.

On Wednesday afternoon, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter will be one of the examples discussed in Glocalization of Magic: Harry Potter in Asia Image courtesy of Warner Bros.

In the afternoon, Beat the Heat: Operating Parks for Rising Temperatures will see leaders from three Disney parks across Asia sharing practical, on-the-ground experiences from their sites. The panel includes Alan Kwok and Olivia Kang of Shanghai Disney Resort, Anthony Blitch of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, and Yuko Kanno from Tokyo Disney Resort.

Later, in Designing Delightful Food & Beverage Journeys, Richie Li of Legoland Shanghai and Robert Sit of Universal Beijing Resort will discuss how culinary innovation and IP integration transform dining into immersive storytelling.

Concurrently, Tony Qiu of Warner Bros. Discovery will present Glocalization of Magic: Harry Potter in Asia, looking at how Warner Bros. Discovery brings its global IP to life through locally resonant experiences across Asia.

In the evening, the Opening Reception of IAAPA Expo Asia 2026 will be held at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort.

Thursday 11 June

Thursday begins with the ticketed Leadership Breakfast featuring Chimelong chairman Su Zhigang, who will deliver a keynote address for attendees.

After this, Brett Ingram of Sands China and Randy Wojcik from Universal Studios Japan will present From Spectacle to Story: Transforming Live Entertainment into Lasting Memories.

This session will examine how cohesive storytelling, guest engagement, and scalable production methods can create emotional arcs that resonate with audiences.

The IAAPA Expo Asia 2026 agenda will also feature speakers from Universal Studios Japan Image courtesy of Universal Studios Japan

Also on Thursday morning, The Art of Merchandise: Storytelling, Creativity, and Revenue will feature insights from David Koo of Hong Kong Disneyland and Ivon Tsang of Ocean Park Hong Kong on how storytelling, creative product development, and IP integration turn merchandise into effective tools for engagement.

In Solution Spotlight: Brogent Technologies Inc. – Immersive Attractions Redefined – From Inspiration to Innovation, attendees will learn how immersive attractions are transforming to create unforgettable experiences.

This session by Brogent Technologies examines how motion systems, media, content creation, and thematic design are combined to satisfy the needs of future audiences.

At the ticketed Women Leadership Luncheon, voices from across the attractions industry will come together to share stories, inspire, and drive meaningful progress. Speakers include Lena Lee from Resort World Sentosa, Masako Taguchi of Universal Studios Japan, and Rosalyn Woo from Hong Kong Disneyland.

DOF Robotics will discuss attractions, like this flying theatre concept, that blend entertainment and educationImage courtesy of DOF Robotics

In the afternoon, Karen Lee Chin Wui of DOF Robotics will present Solution Spotlight: DOF Robotics – The Rise of EDUTainment: Blending Immersion and Education in the Next Gen of Attractions, sharing insights on how edutainment is transforming attractions into platforms for both learning and thrills.

Brian Ho of SJM Resorts will talk about why sustainability must be understood and supported at the business‑unit level, where day‑to‑day operational decisions are made, in Why Sustainability Matters: The Changing Business Context.

Later in the day, Darren Mclean of Pico Play and Susan Mudie from Rainbows End will discuss how data-driven decision-making is crucial for minimising risk, enhancing performance, and unlocking revenue opportunities in Data-Driven Insights to Guide Investment and Boost Performance.

Friday 12 June

Competitive socialising is on the agenda on Friday morning, with Greg Pearn of HB Leisure and Michael Collins of Leisure Development Partners presenting Gamified Leisure: Driving Engagement and Revenue Through Competitive Socialising.

They will analyze why this trend draws considerable investment and examine how it boosts revenue and engagement.

The Water Park Roundtable: Trends, Safety, and Revenue Strategies connects water park owners and operators to explore industry trends and challenges.

Guests enoy colourful water slides at Water World Ocean Park in Hong KongImage courtesy of Water World Ocean Park

The panel includes Yik Ho of Galaxy Macau, Roel van den Berk from Water World Ocean Park, Alan Mahony from Hainan Keyestone Properties Development Co., Ltd, Steve Avery from ProSlide, Andrea Galeazzi of Ramayana Water Park, Phil Zhong from WhiteWater, and Melissa Chung from Studio City Macau.

Finally, Indoor Entertainment Roundtable: Collaboration for Operational Excellence is a collaborative session that focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities in indoor entertainment operations

Speakers include Linda Dong of Play Culture Co., Ltd., Hansa Kraikosol of Playmondo Group, David Lim of Tomorrow Entertainment Holdings Pte Ltd, and Robert Hsiung of PARTYDAY Sports & Entertainment.

Companies not to miss at IAAPA Expo Asia 2026

CONDUCTR

CONDUCTR, the UK-based innovation studio, will be at IAAPA Expo Asia to discuss its latest projects and connect with clients both old and new.

The studio designs, invents, and produces immersive experiences where creativity meets cutting-edge technology, all under one roof. Everything is done in-house, from concept to build to delivery.

Recently, CONDUCTR has served as a key partner with Norwegian Cruise Line in developing Ocean Heights, a new three-deck outdoor entertainment area on the Norwegian Aura. Ocean Heights combines large-scale attractions, immersive media, and technology-driven experiences within a versatile, open-air setting.

Peter Cliff and Jos van der Steen celebrate being named in The LDC Top 50 2025

This follows previous projects transforming entertainment at sea, including Glow Court, Moonclimber and the Luna Midway on NCL's Norwegian Luna. The company also delivered a new digital activation, The Art Experience, on Oceania Cruises’ new ship, Oceania Allura.

In the theme park world, the studio refreshed Alton Towers' iconic dark ride, using narrative-led storytelling and a host of special effects to create Curse at Alton Manor.

Attendees can meet with Peter Cliff, CEO and co-founder, and Jos van der Steen, COO and co-founder, and can arrange meetings via email.

DIVR Labs - booth #2109

DIVR Labs, a leading designer of virtual worlds and free-roam 4D VR arenas, will present its portable VR system, InstaVR GO, at IAAPA Expo Asia 2026.

InstaVR GO Arena is a compact, transportable 6-player VR system built for arcades and events. It delivers DIVR Labs' proven multiplayer gameplay in a lightweight format that can be deployed in minutes.

The 6-person InstaVR GO Arena brings the fun of DIVR's original product in a smaller footprintImage courtesy of DIVR Labs

Designed for easy transport and rapid deployment in virtually any venue, it offers a low-risk way to introduce premium multiplayer VR without major upfront costs.

Attendees can meet Ondrej Bach, co-founder, and Tomas Neubauer, head of growth, and meetings can be booked here.

Last September, DIVR Labs brought InstaVR Arena to IAAPA Expo Europe 2025 in Barcelona following its successful installation at Majaland Prague.

DOF Robotics - booth #718

DOF Robotics, an award-winning producer of immersive simulation attractions, robotic systems, games, and CGI content, invites visitors to discover two of its innovations firsthand: Hurrican 360 and AIQ.

Hurricane 360 is a high-energy 360° rotational ride that combines intense motion simulation with fully immersive VR, delivering an experience that keeps guests coming back.

Meanwhile, AIQ is the company's AI-powered photo booth that captures, transforms, and personalises each guest's image into a visual moment, creating shareable memories that extend the guest experience beyond the venue.

As detailed above, the DOF team will also present a Solution Spotlight on 11 June that examines how immersive technology and educational storytelling are coming together to define the next generation of attractions.

See also: Not just VR: DOF Robotics on the next frontier of experiential entertainment

Funlandia - booth #1729

Funlandia, a global provider of indoor play solutions, will showcase products including the PlayMaze innovation.

PlayMaze isn’t a typical static maze where players simply look for the exit. It turns the maze into a dynamic mechanical adventure, with moving pathways, themed settings, and interactive obstacles that respond to motion, airflow, light, and visual illusions.

Features such as the Tricky Ladder transform a simple climb into a fun challenge. As players ascend, the steps shift, subtly disrupting the rhythm and promoting coordination over speed. The experience emphasises surprise and laughter rather than fear.

The Vortex Tunnel offers another effect: guests walk on a stable surface while the surrounding cylinder rotates, creating a compelling illusion of movement and imbalance.

Additional elements, such as rotating disks, moving steps, wind effects, and conveyor interactions, provide ongoing physical engagement throughout the experience.

For operators, this matters because repeat visits are often motivated by memory rather than novelty. Guests might not remember every slide or wall graphic, but they do recall the moment a ladder “outsmarted” them, a tunnel that disoriented their senses, or a sudden burst of air that sparked shared laughter.

Martin & Vleminckx - booth #1522

Martin & Vleminckx (MV Rides), a leader in the design, manufacturing, fabrication, and installation of attractions, will present its lineup, ranging from award-winning wooden roller coasters to unique thrill rides. This includes the Unicoaster and Unicoaster 2.0, the Polercoaster, and G-Storm.

G-Storm is a high-intensity attraction that launches guests back and forth on a large gondola along a dynamic track suspended between two tall structures.

Concept art for a Unicoaster 2.0 installation from MV Rides

Polercoaster is a vertical roller coaster that delivers an exhilarating ride within a surprisingly small footprint, while Unicoaster 2.0 is an interactive, next-generation coaster featuring patented rotating seats that allow riders to control their experience along the track.

Delegates can meet the Martin & Vleminckx experts, explore the latest technologies, and learn how the company's cutting-edge attractions can take venues to the next level. The team recommends scheduling a meeting in advance via email.

No stranger to the region, three Martin & Vleminckx wooden roller coasters have been named among the Top 10 Roller Coasters in China at the 2025 Golden Crown Awards by the Chinese amusement industry.

Pico Play - booth #1910

Pico Play, a global leader in planning, designing, developing, and constructing world-class themed attractions and entertainment, will unveil PlayMAXX, its innovative gameplay system for the attractions industry, at IAAPA Expo Asia in Hong Kong from 10- 12 June 2026.

Created with trusted partner 2DM, PlayMAXX engages visitors as active participants. It offers story-driven, quest-based gameplay suitable for venues of all sizes, from family entertainment centres to international theme parks.

The new solution uses RFID to deliver story-driven, quest-based gameplay, for a more active, personalised experience Image courtesy of Pico Play

The system utilises RFID technology embedded in a smart wristband to provide access to attractions and activities, track guest achievements, and tailor the experience. This allows guests to compete, collaborate, and progress through various attractions.

For venue and attraction operators, PlayMAXX also functions as a comprehensive commercial platform. It features a promotions engine that enables venues to send targeted offers to specific demographics, boost in-park spending, and promote repeat visits.

Visitors to Pico Play's booth in Hong Kong will be among the first in the world to experience PlayMAXX. The team has developed a fully portable version of the platform—a standalone setup that includes everything from the RFID reader and game engine to the camera, lighting, and operator dashboard.

See also: Plan, design, build, deliver: Pico Play does it all

project: syntropy - booth #1005

project: syntropy, a creator of technology and display solutions for dome cinemas and immersive attractions, will also be present at IAAPA Expo Asia 2026.

Recently, the firm designed, engineered and delivered the complete visual system for the Digital Sandtable at the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center (SUPEC) at People's Square in Shanghai. This project sets an industry benchmark for immersive digital twin technology.

A high-immersion flying theatre attraction within the Qin Palace set at Hengdian World Studios in China, featuring the firm's flyDome with full dome projectionImage courtesy of project: syntropy

Elsewhere in China, the company delivered a turnkey fulldome AV solution comprising a 25m fulldome screen, a 16-channel WUXGA 3D stereo projection system with media servers, a domeprojection.com ProjectionTools autocalibration system, a 20+ multi-channel surround sound system, and show control for the Qin Palace Flying Theatre.

The team will showcase innovations including DOMEVERSE, an advanced 360° projection environment.

Christoph Bode, CTO, will be at the booth, and meetings can be booked by email.

RWS Global - booth #322

RWS Global, a leading producer of live experiences, will be exhibiting at a joint booth with its partner, Max-Matching.

The company is showcasing its capabilities in the Asia market, offering end-to-end services, from master planning and design to execution and operations, for retail centres, cruise lines, theme parks, theatres, and sporting events and venues.

Top Park, the largest international IP-themed FEC cluster in China, will open in Beijing in 2026Image courtesy of Max-Matching

It is also continuing with ongoing IP projects in China. This includes Top Park, in partnership with Max-Matching, which will be the largest international IP-themed FEC cluster in Asia.

Attendees can meet with Mark Amos, RWS Global’s executive vice president of business client strategy for destination design; Sam Xu, RWS Global’s director of business and client strategy for Asia; and Owen Zhao, president of Max-Matching, and can arrange a meeting via email.

Sub Sea Systems - booth #510

Sub Sea Systems, Inc. (SSS), a company specialising in immersive, memorable and hands-on aquatic encounters that educate through entertainment, will be exhibiting a range of products at IAAPA Expo Asia.

This includes the SeaTREK helmet diving, Aquaticar underwater adventure ride, Dive Bell XR motion simulator ride, SnorkelDrift towed snorkel ride system and Planet H2O water theme park.

Since 1985, Sub Sea Systems has made the underwater world accessible through its "world's first" productsImage courtesy of Sub Sea Systems

Aquaticar debuted at the newly opened Aquarabia water park in Qiddiya City. The unique storytelling adventure ride, Aquaticar: Legend of the Glowing Guardian, features the TUV SUD Certified Aquaticar ride system and takes guests on an underwater journey to a lost city, complete with mythical creatures, colourful effects, and immersive storytelling.

Jim Mayfield, president & CEO; Hannah de Bie, VP of marketing & communications; and Charlie Cheng, manufacturer’s representative for China, will be at the booth. Visitors can book meetings here.

ZIERER - booth #422

ZIERER, a leading manufacturer of family-friendly amusement rides, will also be present at IAAPA Expo Asia 2026.

Attendees can learn about several of the company's latest projects in the region, including Family Freefall Tower, Flying Gondolas 12, Wave Swinger 56 and Kontiki XL at Sun World Hon Thom in Vietnam, opened December 2025; Wave Swinger 56 at Nagashima Spaland in Japan, opened February 2026; and Drifter at Tobu Zoo in Japan, opened March 2026.

The ZIERER team will be ready to meet IAAPA Expo Asia attendees at the company's booth, where they will showcase its latest projects and productsImage courtesy of ZIERER

Elsewhere, the company also worked on a Dueling Reverse Coaster at Legoland Billund Resort in Denmark, opened March 2026; a Triple Family Freefall Tower at Efteling in The Netherlands, opened May 2026; and Drifter at Duinrell in The Netherlands, opened May 2026.

In the UK, ZIERER has recently delivered a Custom Force Coaster at Alton Towers Resort, opened March 2026; a Force 360 Coaster at Duinrell, opened April 2026; and Drifter and a Force 160 Coaster at Chessington World of Adventures, opened May 2026.

Visitors to the booth can meet Martin Weichselgartner, managing director, and area sales managers Jeroen Nijpels, Mika Nur Faezah, and Michael Hahn. Meetings can be arranged by email.