The International Association of Amusement Parks Attractions (IAAPA) has announced exciting news for the Middle East’s burgeoning attractions industry – the launch of a new trade show, the IAAPA Expo Middle East. This inaugural event will take place from March 30 to April 2, 2026, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi) in the United Arab Emirates.
The IAAPA Expo Middle East promises to be a significant event for the region, featuring a large exhibition floor showcasing the latest innovations and trends in the attractions industry. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with key industry leaders, engage in educational sessions led by expert speakers, and enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of exciting attractions.
The Middle East has emerged as a major player in the attractions industry, with many exhibitors at the IAAPA Expo Europe already having a strong presence in the region. To ensure comprehensive coverage and engagement across the entire Middle East, IAAPA has announced that the IAAPA Expo Middle East will be held in a different location within the region each year.
Abu Dhabi, the chosen location for the inaugural event, has established itself as a leading destination in the attractions industry, fueled by recent investments in world-class projects. The city is home to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the first SeaWorld park outside the United States, which opened in 2023. Additionally, the expansion of the Wild Wadi Waterpark further solidifies Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for entertainment and leisure. Upcoming attractions, such as the highly anticipated TeamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and the Natural History Museum, are expected to draw millions of visitors and elevate Abu Dhabi’s global appeal. These developments are part of a broader strategy to position Abu Dhabi as a top cultural and tourism destination.
Jakob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA, expressed enthusiasm for bringing the IAAPA Expo to the Middle East. He highlighted the region’s tremendous growth and innovation and emphasized IAAPA’s commitment to supporting and elevating the industry there. Wahl stated that the expo will provide a valuable platform for networking, learning, and discovering new opportunities.
Mubarak Al Shamisi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, welcomed the decision to host the first edition of the IAAPA Expo Middle East in Abu Dhabi. He emphasized the city’s status as a global hub for business, tourism, and entertainment and highlighted the tremendous opportunities emerging in the Middle East. Al Shamisi expressed confidence that the event would foster collaboration, innovation, and economic growth while showcasing Abu Dhabi’s commitment to advancing its tourism sector.
