Abu Dhabi to Now Host IAAPA Expo Middle East 2026, Boosting Regional Tourism and Attractions, Get the Details Here

Published on November 28, 2025

The first IAAPA Expo Middle East event marks a first time IAAPA Expo Middle East will feature Middle East and will take place March 30 – April 2, 2026 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). First in its kind event for Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre is culturally sensitive for the region as it is a tourism and attractions Industry Expo. This is IAAPA ( International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions) First Expo in his kind. Working with the Department of Culture & Tourism – Abu Dhabi is of great importance to Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre DCT (AD) and Tourism will have a culturally transformative event for Middle East.

Middle East Expo will feature to International Community and local Key Stake Holders, Tourism Expo will cater to KTR (Key Touristic Regions) and Tourism Industry Professional. Participants will have the opportunity to attend a unique Touristic Industry Education Expo with Networking Events to the new, unique and innovative Tourism Education Expo Events!

Boosting Abu Dhabi’s Position as a Global Tourism Hub

Abu Dhabi’s growing stature as a global leader in the tourism industry is evident through significant investments in world-class attractions and leisure projects. The city is rapidly becoming a prominent destination for international tourists, with developments such as SeaWorld Yas Island and plans for the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and Disneyland Abu Dhabi. The IAAPA Expo Middle East is poised to accelerate this momentum by offering a premier platform for the global attractions community to connect and engage.

Peter van der Schans, Executive Director and Vice President of IAAPA EMEA, emphasized the significance of the expo, stating that it marks a pivotal moment in IAAPA’s journey in the region. Through years of preparation and collaboration with local organizations such as DCT Abu Dhabi, IAAPA is committed to supporting the growth of the attractions and tourism sectors across the Middle East.

Showcasing Innovations for Tourism Professionals

One of the key features of IAAPA Expo Middle East will be its vast trade show floor, which will showcase over 300 exhibitors. These exhibitors will highlight the latest innovations, technologies, and solutions tailored to the attractions industry. This offers an incredible opportunity for tourism professionals to discover cutting-edge products and services that will help them stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market.

The expo will also feature a series of thought-leadership discussions led by global industry experts. These sessions will focus on emerging trends, best practices, and strategies for entering and expanding in the Middle East market. Such knowledge-sharing is crucial for local operators, particularly as the region continues to experience rapid growth and innovation in its tourism offerings.

Educational Programs and Networking Opportunities

IAAPA Expo Middle East is more than just an exhibition; it’s an educational platform for professionals to enhance their skills and expertise. The expo will host several institutes aimed at career development and professional certification, including the Institute for Attraction Professionals, Institute for Indoor Entertainment Professionals, and the Safety Institute. Participants will earn credit hours toward IAAPA Certification, which will help bolster the industry’s talent pool and support future workforce growth in the region.

In addition, attendees will benefit from a series of exclusive networking events, offering invaluable opportunities to connect with industry leaders, peers, and potential business partners. These interactions are set to create a dynamic atmosphere for the exchange of ideas and the fostering of new collaborations across the tourism and attractions sectors.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours: A Unique Experience for Attendees

Another standout feature of IAAPA Expo Middle East will be its EDUTours, which offer rare, behind-the-scenes access to some of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic attractions. These tours will provide participants with unique insights into the operational and creative processes behind the region’s world-class theme parks and leisure destinations. One of the highlights will be a visit to the Seaworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the first SeaWorld park outside the United States, which is expected to become a major draw for tourists in the coming years.

The EDUTours will also include an exclusive, yet-to-be-announced post-tour, further enhancing the experience for participants. This addition will give attendees a comprehensive understanding of Abu Dhabi’s extensive leisure infrastructure and its potential for future growth in the global tourism market.

Impact on Regional Tourism Growth

The IAAPA Expo Middle East will provide a much-needed catalyst for tourism growth across the Middle East. With Abu Dhabi already positioning itself as a premier destination for cultural, entertainment, and tourism experiences, the expo will allow local operators to learn from global best practices and collaborate with international industry players. The event will enhance the region’s visibility and attract tourists from around the world, helping to shape the future of attractions in the region.

As the region continues to expand its tourism offerings, events like the IAAPA Expo Middle East are essential in fostering a thriving ecosystem that supports the growth of tourism-related businesses, creates jobs, and promotes cultural exchange. The expo will also increase awareness of Abu Dhabi’s many tourism assets and further solidify its position as a key player in the global tourism market.

A Milestone for the Tourism Industry

During the IAAPA conference, Jakob Wahl, the IAAPA President and CEO, noted the rapid growth of the Middle East and the unending potential for Middle East tourism. He stated that the IAAPA Expo Middle East would be an axis for networking, education, and new business ventures and would be one of the first points in IAAPA’s and the Middle East’s focus on advancing the innovation of the attractions industry.

With no other event in Middle East having such great educational programming, the first IAAPA Expo Middle East will absolutely transform tourism in the Middle East and will be an absolute the event for inclusion in in the global tourism and attractions industry.