IAAPA Launches First Middle East Expo in Abu Dhabi — March 30–April 2

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) will stage its inaugural IAAPA Expo Middle East in Abu Dhabi from March 30 to April 2 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The new regional event follows strong demand from members and exhibitors and arrives after IAAPA's record-setting global Expo in Orlando.

Earlier this year IAAPA expanded the planned exhibition space for the Middle East show in response to high exhibitor interest. The decision to create a dedicated regional edition was driven by requests from IAAPA members and local organizations who wanted a nearby platform for networking, professional development, and business growth.

IAAPA's most recent global Expo, held Nov. 17–21 in Orlando, posted record figures: 38,520 attendees, 28,598 qualified buyers representing 20,316 buying companies from 102 countries, and more than 1,100 exhibitors showcasing innovations across the attractions sector.

Orlando highlights

Notable reveals at the Orlando event included:

• SeaWorld Orlando unveiling a new Vekoma roller coaster;
• Dollywood introducing an attraction developed with Mack Rides;
• Six Flags Over Texas revealing the Tormenta coaster by Bolliger & Mabillard;
• Rocky Mountain Construction announcing a new single-rail coaster for Family Kingdom Amusement Park;
• Zamperla partnering with Morgan's Wonderland to debut The WingZ, an accessibility-focused ride.

After years of preparation, we are thrilled to bring IAAPA Expo to the Middle East. Beyond organizing this Expo, we have been strengthening our regional presence through multiday summits and institutes, partnerships with local organizations such as the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, and investments in local talent via a regional office, said Peter van der Schans, IAAPA EMEA executive director and vice president.

Abu Dhabi has become a major destination for new attractions and tourism investment. The emirate already hosts SeaWorld Yas Island and is developing projects including Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Disneyland Abu Dhabi. The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi opened on Nov. 22, further expanding the city’s cultural and tourism offerings.

The Middle East is experiencing tremendous growth and innovation, and IAAPA is eager to support and elevate the industry here, said IAAPA President and CEO Jakob Wahl. IAAPA Expo Middle East will provide a powerful platform for networking, learning, and discovering new business opportunities.

Registration is now open for visitors and exhibitors interested in attending the inaugural IAAPA Expo Middle East. The event aims to bring together operators, suppliers, designers, investors, and other attractions professionals from across the region and the world.