The Saudi Entertainment and Amusements Expo (SEA) 2023 is the Middle East’s largest gathering of leisure and entertainment professionals. It takes place at the Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Centre from 28 – 30 May.
Attendees will be able to find quality leads and form new relationships over the course of the three-day event. Meanwhile, exhibitors will be showcasing their services and products across a large trade show floor. This will include the latest rides, ride equipment and supplies. There will also be new technologies on show, as well as live event products, food and beverage and more.
The event will cover topics such as visionary leadership, sustainable adventure tourism in the Kingdom, regenerative tourism, expansions in cinema and more. Plus, there will be an update on the Red Sea Project and Amaala.
With an advisory board of industry experts, SEA Expo 2023 provides exhibitors and visitors with information tailored to their operations. These members’ contributions include advice, guidance, insights and knowledge, as well as targeted strategies to help shape the Expo’s success.
The transformation of Saudi Arabia’s entertainment and leisure industry
Over the past few years, Saudi Arabia’s public sectors have undergone substantial transformations, attracting a lot of international investment and building brand-new, sustainable towns along its coasts and in its deserts. The complete revamping of the entertainment and leisure industry, however, has had the biggest impact of all the changes.
The country has announced that it will invest USD 64 billion in the market from 2020 to 2030. Experts forecast that the industry will develop at an annual rate of 47.65%. They also anticipate that the sector as a whole will be worth approximately USD 1.17 billion at the end of the decade.
A key goal of this year’s SEA Expo is to draw attention to these investment plans, trends, and initiatives. The event, which is taking place concurrently with the Saudi Light and Sound (SLS) Expo, will cover the spectrum of the country’s entertainment sector while firmly placing an emphasis on the future.
The SEA Expo Summit 2023 Agenda
Day one
On 28 May, SEA Expo Summit 2023 will open with a keynote speech from Vivien Exartier, executive director of the Saudi Entertainment Academy and conference chairman for day one. This will be followed by a keynote address from Majed Al Hokair, CEO of the Hakir Group, entitled Opening Doors to the World of Entertainment and Amusement.
Next, Eihab Abou-Rokbah, CEO of the Saudi Entertainment Academy will deliver an outlook on the entertainment sector in the Kingdom, with a focus on the Saudi Vision 2030.
The first Executive Think Tank Panel of the day is Expanding Entertainment, Sports, Heritage and Culture Tourism Offerings for Saudi Nationals and Foreign Visitors. Speakers include Exartier, as well as Andy Such, executive director of operations at Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), Mohamed Attia, general manager of the entertainment division at Al Hokair Group and Mawlid Benmansour, VP MENA at Wibit Sports.
This will be followed by an Executive Think Tank Panel called Theme Parks and Commercialisation of Leisure. This session includes insights from Sherif Elbassiouny, CEO of e-projects and managing director at LEISURE Qatar, and Robert Cirjak, CEO and founder of Wibit Sports.
Insights into safety, staffing and ‘Saudization’
The SEA Expo Summit 2023 agenda continues with an Executive Think Tank Panel on The Emergence of the Cinematic Powerhouse, with Abdulelah S. Alahmary, president of Arabia Pictures Entertainment and Todd A. Nims, creative producer, writer & director at Empty Quarter.
The next Executive Think Tank Panel is called Ensuring Safety and Security of Assets and Employees. Speakers include Olivia Wyrick, director of operations and aquatics at Qiddiya Water Theme Park, Scott Wellington, general manager at Desert Falls Water & Adventure Park, Sasho Potparikj, associate director of operations at Wild Wadi Waterpark and Ryan Phillips, director of operations at Safety Skills Training Worldwide.
In an Executive Think Tank Panel on ‘Saudization’ in the Entertainment, Leisure and Amusement industry, attendees will hear from Exartier, as well as Don Potts, president of parks and attractions at the Qiddiya Investment Company, Turki Alahmadi, director of operations for KSA at Abdullah Al Othaim Leisure Co., and Nadim Jamal, managing director and co-founder of Event Lab.
The final Executive Think Tank Panel of the day is called Working in Sync – Empowering People Through Learning and Development to Boost Organisational Effectiveness. This will feature insights from Abou-Rokbah alongside Jean Mayne, country executive director of hospitality business units at Bunyan KSA.
Day two
On Monday 29 May, the day’s proceedings will open with a recap from the conference chairman, of day two, Yael Coifman, senior partner at Leisure Development Partners. An Executive Think Tank Panel will follow this called The ‘WOW’ Factor – Creating Unique Guest Experiences by Design through the People that Deliver the Experience – your Staff. This features input from Shaun McKeogh, chief training officer at The ProFun Academy and Ahmed Habib, CEO of Edrak Edutainment.
The following Executive Think Tank Panel will focus on The Entertainment Logistics Shipping Experience. Attendees will hear insights from Robert Aspinall, CEO and founder of The Shipping Monster, Marc Caux, CEO of Entertainment Business at the Al Othaim Investment Company, and Amer Abou Zour, head of commercial at Al Hokair Group.
The TEA presents
The Themed Entertainment Association (TEA), a non-profit representing compelling places and experiences worldwide will then present an Executive Think Tank Panel. This will take a look at the project development process. Speakers include LDP’s Yael Coifman and Natalia Bakhlina, alongside Scott Ault, managing partner of Railton Entertainment Design, Thomas Gould, senior director at FORREC, and Val Syganevich, producer and owner at Freckled Sky.
During an Executive Think Panel called The Hospitality and Entertainment Industry Working Together to Create Unique Guest Experiences in Destination Management, attendees can hear from Mike Rigby, vice president of business development, Middle East waterparks & attractions for WhiteWater, Sameh Gomaa, COO of Alrajhi Real Estate Investment and Elsaeed Albially, vice president of development at Knowledge Economic City, KSA.
Later, Cirjak will present an Executive Think Tank on destination marketing. Then Coifman will return for a session called Empowering Women in the Entertainment and Amusement Industry in the Region – A Social and Global Perspective. She will be joined by Wyrick as well as Hind Galadari, head of attractions & ticketing operations (education & culture) at EXPO City.
Coifman will then deliver the closing comments for day two.
Day three
On Tuesday 30 May, McKeogh will open the SEA Expo Summit 2023, before also speaking in an Executive Think Tank Panel called The Evolving Industry of Family Entertainment Centers (FEC’s) – Providing a Wholesome Family Experience. Speakers for this session include Turki Alahmadi, as well as Ghassan Assi, COO of Trampo Extreme, Mohamed Attia, and Renee Welsh, CEO of Embed & Booking Boss.
Designing Tomorrow’s Attractions Today: A Preview of the Next Generation of Guest Experiences within KSA is the topic of the following Exectuve Think Tank Panel. Attendees can hear insights from Amin Rashmani, managing director of the MENA region for Thinkwell and TAIT Group, Damien Latham, chief attractions officer for SEVEN, Matt Richman, senior technical producer at Production Glue, and Jason McManus, principal at Thinkwell Group.
Following this, there will be another TEA-hosted Executive Think Tank Panel. Speakers for the Themed Entertainment Attractions 101 session will include Paul Kent, VP of global business development at Mad Systems Inc., Louis Alfieri from Raven Sun Creative, Jill Wu, president/chairman of the board at Yaox Entertainment, Rick Hunter, president and CEO of ProSlide Technology Inc. and Val Syganevich.
Video games, entertainment, and a look ahead
Bahaa Abdulmajeed, director of the entertainment sector for the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA) will then speak during a session called Exploring Corporate Investments and Strategic Partnerships in the Global Tourism Sector.
The final Executive Think Tank is called Why Video Games is the Biggest Entertainment Sector Right Now and the Next Career Choice. This will feature Yannick Theler, CEO of Savvy Games Studios, Adeeb Bakhsh, general manager at the Dulani Business Center (DBC), Najla Alajmi, financing programs executive director for The National Development Fund (NDF) and Fahad Ali Alashgar, executive director of enterprise development at the Social Development Bank.
The last session of the day is an Advisory Panel Discussion called Looking Ahead; Futuristic Outlook of the Industry. This will feature contributions from Exartier, as well as Don Potts and Neil Dwyer of Six Flags Qiddiya.
McKeogh will then close the proceedings for SEA Expo 2023.
Meet attractions experts & suppliers at SEA Expo 2023
Alterface
Stéphane Battaille, CEO of Alterface, a leader in interactive technology, will be attending SEA Expo 2023. The firm says that Battaille is looking forward to connecting with industry leaders, gaining valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations, and exploring new opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Last year, Alterface revealed three themes for its Action League dark ride experience. This won the firm an IAAPA Brass Ring in the category of Best New Product Concept Award: Major Attraction in 2021.
Attendees can set up a meeting by email.
BECK
BECK, a leading restoration and refurbishment fit-out specialist, will have team members attending the show to meet clients and contractors as well as engaging in upcoming projects. You can contact Sarah Charley Ashby for a meeting at the show.
The company recently celebrated a successful fit-out of the Lift 109 visitor experience for the Battersea Power Station Development Company last year.
Brogent
Brogent Technologies Inc., a leading manufacturer of media-based attractions, will be at booth #3D60. The team will be introducing their flying theatre line up including the premium i-Ride, the thrilling m-Ride and the budget-friendly o-Ride.
Brogent will be brining the premium immersive virtual racing experience with 6DOF to Doha Quest, the first indoor theme park in Qatar. The sleek formula car-shaped chassis and four expansive screens transport players to an exhilarating race environment. The innovative air blower system adjusts wind volume with the car’s speed, enhancing realism.
The cutting-edge 6DOF motion platform enables seamless movement in six directions, delivering precise motion and force feedback for an authentic racing experience. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy multiplayer racing with up to four competitors. Giant screens, speakers, and an AI broadcasting system ignite spectators’ enthusiasm, enticing them to join the action.
On the booth, will be Stefan Rothaug, Director of Marketing & Sales and Joseph Chao, Asia Pacific Business Director. To arrange a meeting with the team email sales@brogent.com.
sales@brogent.com.
CONDUCTR
CONDUCTR, a new UK-based innovation studio, will exhibit at SEA Expo 2023. Attendees can find the team at booth #1B121.
The firm recently announced a new innovation, Attractions Intelligence. This uses next-generation AI technology to reimagine classic experiences. The company has taken the example of a haunted house and given it a brain, to create an attraction that thinks for itself for a personalised fright experience. It also previously announced the launch of Electric Carrom, a patent-pending reinvention of a popular game from South Asia.
DOF Robotics
At booth #2E85, attendees can discover DOF Robotics, a producer of dynamic simulation platforms. The company says that it is excited to connect at SEA Expo 2023. It will be hosting special promotions and offers throughout the event.
Last year, DOF Robotics launched its Mission Space experience and brought the first installation of the unique digital park product to Camlica Tower in Istanbul, Turkey. Mission Space is an immersive 30-40 minute space experience that combines entertainment and education.
Contact the company by email to arrange a meeting in advance.
ECA2
ECA2, a leading creator of high-quality multimedia shows, will be at booth #3E49, where attendees can find out more about their latest productions. This includes Kiss the Stars, a new world-class seafront water spectacular at Sun World Group’s Sunset Town resort on Phu Quoc Island in southern Vietnam.
In April, the ECA2 team took part in greenloop 2023. During their session, they talked about how multimedia shows have the potential to adapt and become more sustainable.
Embed
Embed, a leading worldwide supplier of point-of-sale and revenue management systems, will be at booth #1E101.
The team will be showcasing breakthrough innovations such as STATS, its new data visualisation platform. Developed with Amazon Web Services, STATS allows users to access real-time reports anytime, anywhere, track game performance and guest activities, and gain insights on revenue, manpower, and inventory. Operators can also get reports on operational planning and forecast game revenue and sales based on retro data.
Embed joined forces with Magic Planet to launch a groundbreaking FEC cashless business solution in the region last year. Recently the Mobile Wallet system won Most Innovative Application of Technology at the 2023 Middle East and North Africa Leisure & Attractions Council (MENALAC) Awards.
To book a meeting with the team at SEA Expo 2023, click here.
ETF Ride Systems
ETF Ride Systems, a leading ride designer and manufacturer, can be found at booth #3E51. Here, the team will be available to talk about their latest projects and products.
Last year, Volkanu – Quest for the Golden Idol, an interactive 4D dark ride at Lost Island Themepark in Waterloo, Iowa, a project which ETF worked on, won an IAAPA Brass Award for Best Major Ride or Attraction.
Several of the firm’s ride systems also feature in this list of the best dark rides in North America.
Extreme Engineering
Extreme Engineering, a leading adventure attractions company, will be exhibiting at the SEA Expo, at booth #1D110. It will be revealing, for the very first time, its all-new drop tower attraction, the Extreme Twist Tower.
The Extreme Twist Tower includes three drop towers that interact with each other while in operation. Each tower is in close proximity to the other, providing a thrilling ride experience in a tight ride envelope. At approximately 40 feet in the air, riders will spin and drop down a twisted beam. An optional spinning platform can also rotate the Extreme Twist Towers during operation. This creates an extra thrilling motion like never experienced before.
Photos and videos will be shared at the event. Extreme Engineering will also be showcasing its latest features, including updates on projects, with its suspended family coasters, award-winning parkour around attraction and the award-winning FLX shade system.
Fun Spot/Clip ‘n Climb
Clip ‘n Climb, an international leader in the fun climbing market, will be attending, along with Enter-prises sister company Fun Spot, at booth #1E111.
The company has recently signed a new agreement in the region with SEVEN. This will develop a further 12 locations in nine cities, together offering more than 400 challenges.
Together with Clip ‘n Climb, Fun Spot provides a comprehensive range of activities for family entertainment centres.
Gantner Ticketing
Gantner Ticketing, a provider of software for museums, zoos, cultural heritage and visitor attractions, will be at booth #1E120. The team will demonstrate Gantner Ticketing modules including POS, time slot ticketing, season tickets, food and beverage and group reservations, as well as Enviso Pay, the firm’s dedicated payment solution.
Earlier this year, the company announced that it is providing a new, seamless admissions process for one of The Netherlands’ leading botanical gardens, Kasteeltuinen Arcen. It also recently partnered with Tabloo, assisting its new visitor centre in Dessel, Belgium, which explores the region’s rich nuclear history.
Gateway Ticketing Systems
Gateway Ticketing Systems, a leading provider of admission control systems, is also on-site at SEA Expo 2023 and can be found at booth #3H69. The firm will be there to support its reseller partner, Prologic First, to discuss our premier ticketing system. As a world leader in ticketing, admission control and revenue-generating solutions within the attractions industry for nearly 35 years, Gateway Ticketing Systems offers a stress-free ticketing option that can also assist with increasing revenue.
Charlie Broschart, Gateway’s Product Development Manager, will be at the show. Attendees can send an email in advance to book a meeting.
Recently, Gateway Ticketing Systems announced the appointment of Sharon Parker as its senior manager of marketing.
Huss Park Attractions
Huss Park Attractions, the German ride manufacturer, will be at booth #2E81. Last year, Huss Park Attractions revealed four brand new attraction concepts at IAAPA Expo 2022 in Orlando. This followed the successful earlier launch of Break Dance 5. All five new rides will be available to customers over the coming year.
Last month, the company celebrated the opening of it’s Giant Frisbee at OCT Happy Valley Nanjing in China. It is one of the main attractions for the Happy Time themed land expansion. The thrilling anchor attraction has a height of 43 metres, accelerations of +4.5 g and a maximum speed of around 110 kilometres per hour, comparable to a major rollercoaster.
At the show, attendees can arrange to meet with Lars L Hartmann, International Sales Manager (l.hartmann@hussrides.com) or with André Warnecke, Managing Director of HUSS Parts (a.warnecke@hussparts.com). Warnecke is the head of HUSS service which includes inspections, refurbishments, repairs, rigging, spare parts, technical assistance).
Intamin
Intamin, a creator of record-breaking amusement rides, will present several new products at SEA Expo 2023. Attendees can find the team at booth #1E141 and can book a meeting in advance by email.
Intamin is currently developing a number of LSM launch coasters, family launch coasters, water rides, and immersive and observation attractions, considering the individual needs and demands of every different operator. As the leading supplier in the field of launch coasters, Intamin can come up with various solutions.
In April this year, Intamin opened “Toutatis” at Parc Asterix in France. This an LSM launch coaster with 23 airtime moments – the most airtime moments on any steel coaster worldwide. The team will be announcing new openings of LSM launch coasters, family launch coasters and various water rides as well as immersive attractions this year in the UAE, Europe, the USA and Asia.
Interlink
At booth #1D139, attendees can meet the team from Interlink, a leading water ride designer and manufacturer. Ahead of the show, the firm said:
“If you’re starting to plan out your visit and block in meetings and would like to talk more with us about why a water ride is just what you need for your attraction, get in touch to schedule some time with our team.”
Last year, Interlink provided new attractions to Lost Island Theme Park, a major new family-run theme park in Iowa, US
Jora Vision
Jora Vision, a leading design and production company, will exhibit at booth #3D49. The company has over 25 years of experience in leisure. It designs and builds engaging experiences, environments and attractions for clients across the globe.
In 2022, the Quake Lisbon Earthquake Center, one of the firm’s recent projects, won a Thea award in the category “Outstanding Achievement – Historical Experience, Limited Budget” by the TEA. After being recognised with Thea Awards for several of its dark rides in previous years, this is the first time the firm has been honoured for a tourist attraction project.
Katapult
Katapult, the international guest experience design agency, will once again be attending SEA Expo in 2023. The team will be chatting with attendees at the Experience UK booth, #1B121. The firm’s chief creative officer, Phil Higgins, will be in attendance during the three-day event.
Last month, Katapult celebrated the first anniversary of a whiskey-themed immersive visitor attraction, the Portmagee “Spirit of the Sea” Experience in Ireland. The attraction was designed by Katapult, and visitors get in the spirit of the experience as they sample the whiskey and go aboard a real-life seine boat.
Katapult was also recently appointed to work on Gigantosaurus Land at ROARR!, the UK’s leading dinosaur-themed adventure park.
KCC Entertainment Design
KCC Entertainment Design, a leading creator of themed environments, will be exhibiting at booth #2E91. The company, based in Belgium, will be meeting prospective and existing clients at the event to showcase its latest projects and innovations in entertainment design.
KCC has recently opened two projects in Belgium, Terrar Magma at Bobbehjaanland, and SparkX, the largest sports entertainment centre in Europe. In the Middle East, KCC recently opened Pixoul Gaming. Coined as the Middle East’s first integrated immersive VR and Esports hub, the venue is one of the biggest draws in Abu Dhabi’s Al Qana retailtainment development.
On the KCC booth will be Reinhart Viane, Business Development Director, (reinhart@kcc.be) and Veneta Yanyova, Business Development Manager (veneta@kcc.be).
Kraftwerk Living Technologies
Kraftwerk Living Technologies (KLT), a leading-edge AV systems integrator, will be present at booth #1E131. The company combines and synchronises high-quality systems to provide tailor-made overall solutions for the global market. Since its founding in 1992, KLT has realised more than 1,000 projects across the world.
Last year, the firm celebrated 30 years in the business. It also received a collection of international industry accolades including a trio of blooloop Innovation Awards.
Lapsett Creative
Lappset Creative, a leading provider of themed and branded activity attractions, can be found at booth #3C69. Here, the team will be showcasing the firm’s latest themed attraction concepts and landmark-style attractions that promote fun, active, and safe play for all ages. Attendees can schedule a meeting or visit the booth during SEA Expo 2023. The team will be available to discuss the latest product offerings and custom solutions that cater to the unique needs of individual projects.
Last year, Lappset Creative shared how it is designing and delivering highly-themed indoor attractions to shopping centres around the world, building on the demand for social and active entertainment possibilities as a part of leisure and shopping experiences.
Martin and Vleminckx
Martin & Vleminckx, a leader in the design, manufacture, fabrication, and installation of thrilling attractions, will present its new product portfolio at booth #1C139 at SEA Expo 2023.
Some of the attractions that will be presented at the trade show are the Skyblazer, a new attraction that is an evolution of the famous Skycoaster. Its swinging gondola will give riders the sensation of skydiving. The team will also showcase the Unicoaster. This is an interactive attraction that provides a unique and exciting ride experience, allowing the riders the ability to control their vehicle by using a control stick.
Attendees can also learn about the SkySpire, an architecturally stunning structure. Passengers can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views in climate-controlled gondolas during their ride to the top.
To schedule a meeting ahead of the show, please contact the team by email.
project: syntropy
project: syntropy, creator of technology and display solutions for dome cinemas and immersive attractions, will be at booth #2A79. The team will highlight its dome attractions, flyDome, virtual aquarium, and race tunnel. Among its dome attractions, the company now offers interactive domes, creating the first dome experience that features interactivity. Giulia Barbero, director of project: syntropy, will be present at the booth.
Recently, project: syntropy worked with the DLR Institute of Flight Systems to deliver a turnkey visual display solution for the ISTAR fixed-base flight simulator at the Air Vehicle Simulator (AVES) Simulation Center. This venue is part of the DLR Flight Dynamics and Simulation Department in Braunschweig Airport, Germany.
ProSlide Technology
ProSlide Technology Inc. will be showcasing its cutting-edge designs and superior projects from around the world. ProSlide’s team will also be present at booth #2C91 to discuss ways in which the company can support water park ventures.
In February, ProSlide’s Jeff Janovich and Daniel Thomas spoke to blooloop about the revolutionary technology that powers water coasters like those in its HydroMAGNETIC and BLAST categories. They also discussed the spirit of innovation that underpins the company, and why this is the key to driving the industry forward.
Rainbow Productions
Rainbow Productions, a leading character events company and mascot manufacturer, is expanding its already strong reach in the GCC market. After meeting key clients, making new contacts and unveiling its very own mascot at this year’s Dubai Entertainment Amusement and Leisure (DEAL) exhibition in March, the firm will also be attending SEA Expo 2023.
As it celebrates four decades in the business, Rainbow Productions unveiled its very own mascot at the DEAL show: Ruby, a name synonymous with fortieth anniversaries. Ruby, a delightful rainbow-haired bear, highlights Rainbow Productions’ mascot manufacturing talents, with stunning fabrics and 3D-printed props.
Red Raion
Red Raion, the CGI studio specialized in media-based attractions, will also be at SEA Expo 2023. The team will be at booth #3E60, and attendees can book a meeting in advance here.
The company recently announced a new collaboration with Lorien McKenna. This award-winning screenwriter has worked on a number of much-loved titles for Pixar, including the Oscar-winning Ratatouille, as well as Brave, Up, and Inside Out. McKenna has completed the script for Red Raion’s upcoming CGI movie. The IP for this new title will be revealed during the show.
Recently, Red Raion celebrated the launch of its newest title, Around the World in 80 Days – Journey of Wonders by releasing a special key
Sacoa Cashless System
Sacoa Cashless System, a leader in revenue management systems for the amusement, entertainment, and leisure industries, will be at booth #1A106. Attendees at the show will be able to learn more about Sacoa’s latest products. This includes the K4 Kiosk, Spark reader, the M-POS, Zodiac, and other new features developed to provide an exceptional experience for customers while helping operators increase their revenue.
The company also recently exhibited at Amusement Expo International in Las Vegas. Here, the team showcased its solutions and Sebastian Mochkovsky, CEO of Sacoa USA, took part in a panel discussion entitled Beyond the Transaction. In addition, the firm presented a range of its products at IAAPA Expo last year.
Scruffy Dog Creative Group
Scruffy Dog Creative Group (SDCG), a leading creative design company, will be talking to attendees about recent projects at booth #2B79. SDCG is a global entertainment design & realisation company delivering story-led theme parks, resorts, attractions & live events.
Last month SDCG announced the launch of M.A.D Models, its new architectural model-making division. The M.A.D modelling team will be located within the firm’s cutting-edge production facility in Birmingham, UK. Here, they will work on creating a wide range of detailed and accurate scale models.
Severn Lamb
Severn Lamb, a leader in the manufacture and supply of leisure, resort and amusement transport, will be located on the Experience UK Pavilion booth #1B121. Creating exceptional vehicles and visitor experiences for the most demanding global customer requirements, Severn Lamb is a world leader in the design and manufacture of people-moving experiences for a worldwide client base. Its diverse and varied portfolio has become a benchmark for quality, longevity and durability.
Jack Tunstall will be representing Severn Lamb and he looks forward to connecting with a diverse range of clients in Saudi Arabia, and exploring exciting projects that can benefit from Severn Lamb’s exceptional visitor transportation solutions. To arrange a meeting, email jack.tunstall@severn-lamb.com.
The firm recently completed a project to design, manufacture and deliver a new railroad to Carillon Historical Park, a 65-acre park and museum in Dayton, Ohio. At the end of 2022, Severn Lamb announced the acquisition of Trams International, a US and international supplier of trams with over three decades of experience.
Simtec Systems
Simtec Systems, a leader in motion simulation, has over three decades of experience as a specialist in the manufacture of high-end entertainment simulator systems. This includes its HEXaFLITE flying theatres, dark rides, and open and closed cabin FUNRIDE motion-based simulators. To find out more, visit the team at booth # 2B71.
Last year, Simtec Systems won two industry awards for installations in China. The firm was awarded “Outstanding Motion/Flying Theaters Supplier (International)” for Flying over Chongqing, its HEXaFLITE72 Flying Theater in Chongqing Sunac Land, and “Outstanding Family Ride Supplier (International)” for three FUNRIDE21 Open Cabin Simulators in OCT Chongqing Happy Valley, China.
Sports Simulator
Sports Simulator, a provider of advanced leisure simulators, will be at booth #1B121. Each Sports Simulator can host a wide variety of sports. Football, soccer, rugby, tennis, baseball, and cricket are popular options among the 60+ sports available today. Players can also discover some perhaps less well-known sports, from shinty and archery to disc golf, rinkball and foot golf.
The simulator is customisable and can be modified to suit any experience. It features over 3,500 sporting venues and over 1,500 game challenges within the simulator, transporting players to venues around the world. It is ideal for many different locations, providing a fast FOI for FECs, cinemas, malls, hotels, sports bars and more. Owner Andy Cole spoke to blooloop earlier this year, outlining the company’s products and its ethos.
SPREE Interactive
SPREE Interactive, a leading provider of active free-roam VR experiences, is inviting attendees to discover its latest VR playground and family-friendly VR shooter game. The VR Playground features top-of-the-line technology and a growing family-friendly games library, all within a compact floor space. The team will also be on hand to discuss how SPREE’s high throughput solutions can take an FEC’s revenue to the next level. To book a meeting, please click here.
Recently, SPREE Interactive has been celebrating the success of its new attraction in Medellin, Colombia. This SPREE Arena is the company’s first South American project and the first VR attraction at the Happy City family entertainment centre (FEC). In a record-breaking month, it generated revenue of Col$13.959m for Happy City.
Sunkid
Sunkid, a leading provider of attractions for the whole family, will present its product portfolio at booth #2E98. This includes family rides, mountain coasters, moving carpets and different wood’n’fun products. The team will also give an overview of the firm’s latest projects.
Sunkid is also a manufacturer of next-generation passenger transport and a major supplier to ski resorts around the world. The firm recently announced the launch of Type N. This is a new conveyor belt product which sets a new standard in user transportation.
The Themed Entertainment Association
The TEA is hosting three events during SEA Expo 2023, including two discussion panels, as outlined above. The association is also hosting a mixer at the Crowne Plaza Hotel (Al Waha), with networking and a free lunch. The event is sponsored by Top Notch Engineering.
After its second panel discussion on Tuesday, TEA Presents: Themed Entertainment Attractions 101, the TEA will provide coffee and cakes at booth #1H119, sponsored by The Happiness Factory.
The TEA SATE Europe conference 2023 took place earlier this month at Europa-Park in Germany. Ella Baskerville rounded up some of the highlights here.
Themics Philippines Inc.
Themics Philippines Inc., a turnkey theming, animatronic and lighting expert for the leisure and amusement industry, will be exhibiting at booth #3E58. The firm is a multi-utility company for themed attractions, standard and IP items, located in the heart of the Philippines. It creates high-quality fibreglass items for theme parks, FECs, museums, and other leisure businesses.
The team will be on hand to talk with attendees about how to make their theming dreams a reality. They will also be presenting a number of recent projects, such as World of Wonders, a three-story FEC in Doha. Another project that will be showcased is the development of a new theme park in the Philippines, Pradera Islands.
Han Kuijpers will be in Riyadh on behalf of Themics Philippines. To schedule an appointment, please email.
The Shipping Monster
As outlined above, The Shipping Monster’s Robert Aspinall will speak during a panel discussion on logistics and shipping in the entertainment industry. In addition, the team will be at booth #1D131, to talk about the services provided by The Shipping Monster.
Recently blooloop spoke to Aspinall about trends in the industry, including sustainability and IP-based experiences.
Triotech
Triotech, an award-winning creator of media-based attractions, will be welcoming attendees to explore its latest products and projects at booth #1B101.
The company is presenting its latest award-winning walkthrough attraction featuring the world-known IP PUBG: Battlegrounds. This has been deployed in China and now South Korea. The walkthrough adventure utilises interactivity, immersion, media, motion, and projection mapping to create a thrilling journey for guests. Up to sixteen people journey through three zones, each featuring a unique attraction that challenges them.
Triotech recently opened the first Smash & Reload attraction, the Champi’Folies interactive dark ride at Le PAL in France. The compact interactive dark ride requires a small footprint at an affordable budget for regional parks, without compromising on guest experience.
For FECs and arcades, Triotech released the QUBE: A new premium interactive multiplayer coin-op game. This attendant-free media-based 4-seat simulator requires a low footprint and provides high immersion, giving guests a true deluxe experience and generating a high ROI for operators. The QUBE features a 100” 4k projected display, motion seats, wind, blasters, a 5.1 surround sound system, Unreal 5-powered experiences, and a full library of content.
On the booth will be Ernest Yale, president & CEO, Sylvain Larose, chief operating officer and Yannick Gemme, vice president sales and marketing. To arrange a meeting with the Triotech team, please email sales@trio-tech.com.
Vekoma
Vekoma Rides, the Dutch roller coaster specialist, will be exhibiting at SEA Expo 2023, at booth #3C61. The team will be talking about its latest projects and product innovations, such as Circuit Breaker. This is an exhilarating and visually striking first Tilt Coaster 2.0 experience that will appeal to adrenaline junkies and racing fans at Circuit of the Americas in Texas.
The firm also built Big Bear Mountain, Dollywood’s brand-new coaster, featuring SUV vehicles and onboard audio. New in the product portfolio is the Super Boomerang which brings the proven Boomerang concept to new levels of excitement. It’s high-flying airtime forwards and backwards thrills even the most seasoned riders. Meet the Vekoma team at the show to discover more and discuss your future project.
Walltopia
Walltopia, a world leader in the climbing and adventure & leisure industries, can be found at booth #2D91. Attendees can learn about Walltopia products, which are installed across adventure parks, amusement parks, shopping malls, gyms, recreational areas, ski resorts, schools & universities, hotels and more.
Earlier this year, Walltopia shared details about a recent project that highlights its skills and expertise as a turnkey solutions provider. Turnkey solutions and services could be crucial in pitching investors, and also in securing financing in general. The Jungle Adventure Play in Queensland, Australia, is a key example of how Walltopia’s turnkey solutions can help in the delivery of a project that meets a client’s business plan.
WhiteWater
The WhiteWater team will be at booth #2A71, where they will be highlighting recent projects. For example, in the Middle East, WhiteWater has contributed to projects in Qatar, the UAE, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia. All are set to open in the next few years.
In Europe, WhiteWater is continuing to collaborate with leading brands. Water parks will be opening on two new cruise ships, Carnival Jubilee and MSC Euribia, and there will be a new slide addition to Center Parcs Le Bois aux Daims in Morton, France. In addition, Aqualand Moravia in Pasohlávky, Czechia will open a new indoor play area featuring the firm’s AquaForms 400.
In Asia, WhiteWater recently celebrated the opening of a new indoor water park at Studio City in Macau. Plus, in North America, the firm is working on a number of projects including Island Waterpark, the world’s biggest indoor beachfront water park. This is currently under construction at Showboat Hotel in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
Zamperla
Zamperla, a leading ride manufacturer, is exhibiting at booth #2B81. During SEA Expo 2023, the team will be talking to attendees about its wide range of products.
Zamperla Group is synonymous with creative design and cutting-edge technology. With a focus on fun and thrills, Zamperla’s ability to innovate and entertain lies within its unique ability to bring a venue to life, from early design concepts to final products.
Zamperla are working on exciting projects in the Middle East. On the booth will be the Zamperla ME team: Yasser Goneid, General Manager; Enas Faruk, Sales Manager and Marco Antoniazzi, Sales Manager MEA – India. To arrange a meeting with the team and discuss your future project please contact Antoniazzi here.
Sponsors
Al Hokair Group is the Platinum Sponsor for SEA Expo 2023, and Embed is the Lanyard and Registration Sponsor. The Shipping Monster is the SEA Summit Sponsor, Semnox Solutions is the Badge Sponsor, and Outdoor Factory is a Sponsor. Association Partners include the Middle East and North Africa Leisure & Attractions Council (MENALAC), FUN Italian Export and the TEA.
GRS is the Official Research Partner for SEA Expo 2023 and Albaron is the SEA Networking Lunch Sponsor. Blooloop is an official media partner.
Top image courtesy of SEVEN
