IAAPA Expo Middle East Comes to Abu Dhabi in 2026: A Premier Event for Tourism Professionals to Discover Emerging Trends and Network with Industry Leaders

Published on November 28, 2025

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is set to host a groundbreaking event for the region’s tourism and attractions industry. The IAAPA Expo Middle East, the first-ever expo organized by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) in the Middle East, will take place from 30 March to 2 April 2026 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This landmark event is expected to attract thousands of tourism industry experts, exhibitors, and professionals from across the globe, marking a significant milestone for the region’s rapidly growing attractions sector.

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has partnered with IAAPA to bring this world-class event to the Middle East, in response to the region’s increasing demand for innovation and collaboration in the theme park and attractions industry. As one of the fastest-growing tourism hubs in the world, Abu Dhabi provides the perfect setting for this international gathering, which will feature education sessions, networking opportunities, and hands-on experiences tailored to the evolving needs of the attractions industry.

The IAAPA Expo Middle East is poised to be a pivotal moment for the region’s tourism sector, offering insights into the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in attractions and theme parks. The event will highlight Abu Dhabi’s emergence as a global hub for tourism, as the city continues to invest in innovative and immersive experiences for visitors.

Key Highlights of IAAPA Expo Middle East 2026

• Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Dates: 30 March to 2 April 2026
• Exhibitors: More than 300 industry leaders and exhibitors
• Key Features:
  • Education Sessions: Expert-led discussions on emerging trends, strategies, and market entry opportunities in the Middle East.
  • Networking Opportunities: Facilitating valuable connections for businesses and individuals in the tourism and attractions industry.
  • EDUTours: Exclusive backstage tours offering access to top local attractions, including those on Yas Island.
  • Career Institutes: IAAPA’s staple institutes, such as the Institute for Attraction Professionals and the Safety Institute, offering certification and professional development.

Abu Dhabi’s Strategic Role in the Attractions Industry

Abu Dhabi has rapidly become a leader in the global tourism industry, with massive investments in world-class attractions and immersive leisure experiences. The city is home to a variety of world-renowned attractions, including Seaworld Yas Island, the first SeaWorld park outside of the U.S., and upcoming developments like the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and Disneyland Abu Dhabi. These major projects underscore the city’s strategy to become a top global destination for culture, entertainment, and tourism.

Abu Dhabi’s investment in the tourism sector is reflective of its broader economic diversification goals, as the emirate seeks to establish itself as a premier destination for visitors from around the world. With these new developments, Abu Dhabi continues to draw international attention, especially within the theme park and attractions industry, and is set to become the region’s leading hub for entertainment and tourism.

Why the IAAPA Expo Middle East is a Milestone for the Region

The IAAPA Expo Middle East will be the first expo of its kind in the region, bringing together industry professionals, tourism leaders, and global exhibitors to discuss the future of attractions and entertainment. As Abu Dhabi continues to grow as a tourism hotspot, the event will allow the region to showcase its innovative attractions and immersive visitor experiences to the global market. The expo will also serve as a platform for local talent and industry leaders to come together, exchange ideas, and discuss new opportunities for the future.

What to Expect at IAAPA Expo Middle East

Educational Sessions

At the heart of IAAPA Expo Middle East will be a series of educational sessions designed to address the latest trends and challenges in the tourism and attractions sectors. These sessions will cover various aspects of the industry, from marketing strategies to safety regulations and emerging technologies. These programs are designed to provide valuable insights into how the Middle East can continue to innovate and lead in the attractions sector.

Exhibitor Showcase

More than 300 global exhibitors are expected at the trade show, showcasing the latest products, services, and technologies from across the attractions industry. Attendees will have the chance to discover new products, solutions, and services that can enhance their attractions, theme parks, and entertainment venues. The exhibitor floor will feature the latest innovations in ride technology, interactive experiences, and sustainability.

Networking Opportunities

The IAAPA Expo Middle East will offer a range of networking opportunities for professionals in the attractions and tourism industries. This includes one-on-one meetings, business matchmaking sessions, and opportunities to connect with fellow exhibitors and visitors. This event provides the perfect environment for creating partnerships and exploring new business ventures in the growing Middle East market.

EDUTours

IAAPA Expo Middle East will offer exclusive behind-the-scenes tours of local attractions, including those on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. These EDUTours will provide attendees with unique insights into how world-class attractions are run and managed. These tours will also offer a chance to see cutting-edge technologies in action and gain firsthand experience of the latest trends in entertainment and leisure.

Abu Dhabi’s Growing Role in the Global Tourism Landscape

Abu Dhabi has long been a key player in the global tourism industry, and its continued investments in world-class attractions and luxury experiences only solidify its reputation as a must-visit destination for travelers. From cultural landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi to the thrilling rides at Ferrari World Yas Island, the city offers something for everyone. As more and more global tourists visit the emirate, the region’s investments in sustainable tourism and innovative attractions will further boost its standing as a premier destination.

Future of Tourism in UAE

Abu Dhabi’s tourism landscape is poised for continued growth with future developments like the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Disneyland Abu Dhabi, which will add even more to the city’s ever-expanding roster of attractions. The IAAPA Expo Middle East will not only highlight Abu Dhabi’s current successes but also position the emirate as a global leader in the entertainment and tourism sectors for years to come.

Conclusion: A Historic Moment for Abu Dhabi and the Region

The inaugural IAAPA Expo Middle East in Abu Dhabi is a landmark event that will help shape the future of the attractions industry in the Middle East and beyond. With its diverse program of exhibitors, education sessions, networking opportunities, and exclusive tours, the expo will serve as a key platform for industry professionals to come together, share ideas, and explore the future of tourism in the region. This event will also further solidify Abu Dhabi’s status as a global hub for culture, entertainment, and tourism, attracting industry leaders from all over the world.