The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has opened registration for IAAPA Expo Middle East.
The event will take place from March 30 to April 2, 2026 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
This marks the first time IAAPA has held an Expo in the Middle East. The event has been created in response to demand from IAAPA members and local and regional organisations within the attractions and theme parks sector.
Thousands of industry professionals expected to gather at IAAPA
“After years of preparation, we are thrilled to bring IAAPA Expo to the Middle East. Beyond organizing this Expo, weโve been actively shaping our presence in the region by hosting multiday summits and institutes, building strong partnerships with organizations like the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), and investing in local talent with our regional office. This event is a milestone in that journey,” Peter van der Schans, Executive Director and Vice President, IAAPA EMEA said in a statement.
The conference will bring together thousands of tourism industry experts from across the world.
“The Middle East is experiencing tremendous growth and innovation, and IAAPA is eager to support and elevate the industry here. IAAPA Expo Middle East will provide a powerful platform for networking, learning, and discovering new opportunities. We are proud to host the very first edition of this annual event in Abu Dhabi,” Jakob Wahl, IAAPA President and CEO added.
Education sessions, special events, networking opportunities, and behind-the-scenes tours have been designed with the industry’s evolving needs in mind.
The 2026 edition will showcase a programme that IAAPA, as the industry’s leading membership association, can deliver.
More than 300 exhibitors have already been contracted for the trade show floor, with global thought leaders set to lead discussions on emerging trends, best practices, and strategies for entering and expanding into the Middle East market.
EDUTours and career-advancing institutes on agenda
EDUTours will offer backstage access to local attractions on Yas Island, together with a post-tour yet to be announced.
The agenda will feature IAAPA’s career-advancing institutes, including the Institute for Attraction Professionals, Institute for Indoor Entertainment Professionals, and the Safety Institute.
Each of these programmes will earn participants credit hours towards IAAPA Certification, exemplifying support and development of future talent in the sector.
Abu Dhabi has become a destination for attractions and leisure, supported by investments in projects including SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi โ the first SeaWorld park outside the United States, a development created by Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi.
The emirate is preparing to welcome additional projects including the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and Disneyland Abu Dhabi. These developments show Abu Dhabi’s strategy to position itself as a hub for culture, entertainment, and tourism.
Opportunities for industry professionals
IAAPA Expo Middle East will provide opportunities to discover innovations, connect with industry leaders, and shape the future of attractions in the region.
Attendees will have the chance to explore new products, meet with industry experts, and gain insights into the latest trends and technologies.
Registration is open now for members of the press and attendees.
