IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, is celebrating the success of the inaugural IAAPA Middle East Trade Summit, which took place on 7 and 8 March in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Over the course of the two-day event, more than 700 registered attendees enjoyed a variety of educational sessions, EDUTours and networking events.
“As we continue growing our membership base, we have turned a focus on the Middle East as it is one of the fastest-growing regions for development within the attractions industry,” says Peter van der Schans, vice president and executive director for IAAPA Europe, Middle East, Africa. “This event allowed us to spend more time with our members based in Saudi Arabia while allowing us to introduce ourselves to new business owners and developers who would benefit from joining IAAPA.”
Two days of educational sessions and more
Ten education sessions explored a range of topics, from the future workforce for the industry and an update on Saudi Arabia’s current projects to continued supply chain demands and how to achieve excellent customer service. There were over 30 expert speakers from 13 countries, including representatives from Disneyland Paris, Europa Park, Parques Reunidos and Six Flags Qiddiya.
In the Trade Connections Area, 24 exhibiting companies were on hand to meet attendees, providing a unique opportunity to build new relationships and connect with potential industry partners.
Attendees also took part in an EDUTour to Boulevard Riyadh City. This 900,000-square-meter entertainment zone opened during Riyadh Season, a state-sponsored annual entertainment festival, in 2021. The new Boulevard World, a world showcase that is home to 16 different zones with rides and entertainment, was also explored.
IAAPA partnered with the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) to support the country’s entertainment industry and organise this event.
The association is also hosting the first-ever North America Trade Summit later this month. The event takes place in San Diego, California, from 20 – 23 March.
