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November 27, 2025Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s thriving cultural and entertainment hub, is preparing to host the first-ever IAAPA Expo Middle East in March 2026, marking a major milestone for the region’s tourism and attractions sector. The Expo, taking place from March 30 to April 2, 2026, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), is expected to draw thousands of experts and over 300 exhibitors from across the global attractions and entertainment industries.This inaugural event, organized in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), will provide a unique platform for tourism professionals to connect, collaborate, and share insights into the latest trends and innovations shaping the attractions and theme park industries. The event’s opening in Abu Dhabi highlights the city’s growing importance as a major player in the global leisure and entertainment market.Advertisement Showcasing Innovation and Networking Opportunities for the Global Attractions CommunityThe IAAPA Expo Middle East is poised to be a game-changing event for the attractions industry, offering opportunities for industry leaders to network, share best practices, and explore new business opportunities. With a focus on the latest technologies, emerging trends, and market expansion strategies, this event will showcase cutting-edge solutions for attractions businesses, including theme parks, museums, entertainment venues, and other related sectors.More than 300 exhibitors are already committed to showcasing their latest products and services, providing attendees with direct access to innovations that will shape the future of the attractions industry. In addition to the exhibits, the event will feature education sessions led by global thought leaders, offering valuable insights into the latest industry developments, strategies for entering the Middle East market, and emerging best practices in the entertainment sector.AdvertisementEDUTours and Behind-the-Scenes Experiences in Abu DhabiOne of the highlights of the IAAPA Expo Middle East will be the EDUTours, offering rare behind-the-scenes access to some of the region’s leading attractions, including those on Yas Island. The tour will provide visitors with an exclusive opportunity to explore the inner workings of world-class destinations and learn about the operational challenges and innovations driving success in the UAE’s growing leisure market. Additionally, a unique post-tour experience will be announced, further enhancing the value of attending the event.These educational tours will be a key feature for attendees seeking to gain first-hand experience and deeper insights into the local attractions industry, including those projects that have made Abu Dhabi a glo …
