IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, has revealed its plans to host a trade summit on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi in January 2024. This event will take place in collaboration with IAAPA Member Miral, a creator of immersive experiences and destinations, and the Abu Dhabi Exhibition Convention and Exhibition Bureau.
By welcoming guests to this event, IAAPA continues its promotion of the Middle East region with in-person programming.
Vibrant attractions industry
Following a successful trade summit in Riyadh last year, the IAAPA Middle East Trade Summit will be held on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, from 22 to 24 January. The comprehensive summit agenda includes access to the Trade Connections Area with 41 firms, a range of educational sessions, networking events, and EDUTours including a visit to the region’s first marine life theme park, SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
Visits to Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, featuring the record-breaking Formula Rossa, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi will also be included in EDUTours.
Registration is now open for the event, with limited availability for the Full Summit packages which include the EDUTours.
A wide range of subjects are covered in education sessions, including artificial intelligence (AI), the difficulties of digital transformation, and the creation of sustainable destinations and attractions.
Peter van der Schans, vice president and executive director of IAAPA Europe, Middle East, Africa, says: “The Middle East is an important region and IAAPA is looking to build more relationships there while growing our membership. Abu Dhabi and the UAE have worked hard for years to build a vibrant attractions industry. We can’t wait to learn from their newest expansions.”
Last month, IAAPA announced that the winner of the 2024 Applause Award will be revealed at the IAAPA Honors ceremony on 3 March 2024 in Las Vegas.
Swedish theme park Liseberg has presented the Applause Award every two years since 1980. The award recognizes a park whose operations, management, and creative achievements have influenced the industry.
