The UAE is strengthening its global leadership in the entertainment industry sector
Abu Dhabi, February 15 / WAM / The UAE adopts a long-term strategic vision to strengthen its position as one of the most prominent global destinations for the entertainment industry, and a pioneering model in building an advanced entertainment system that attracts millions of visitors annually and supports the diversification of the national economy.
The preparations to host the capital, Abu Dhabi, for the first time in the region, the activities of the “IAAPA Middle East 2026” exhibition and conference, the most prominent global event in the sector of entertainment cities and tourist attractions, during the period from March 30 to April 2, 2026, come to embody the national vision to enhance the attractiveness of the tourism sector in the country, and the keenness to expand the establishment of unique entertainment destinations and attractions at the level of the region.
In this context, Jacob Wall, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the International Association of Amusement Destinations and Parks (IAAPA), confirmed in a statement to the Emirates News Agency, WAM, that the Middle East region is witnessing exceptional growth and accelerating momentum in the sector of entertainment destinations and tourist attractions, indicating expectations that spending will rise at a compound annual rate of 16.5% during the period from 2023 to 2028, which reflects the strong demand for entertainment experiences in the region.
He explained that this growth is led by ambitious national visions and long-term investments, which has contributed to accelerating the development of major projects and consolidating the region’s position as one of the fastest growing entertainment markets in the world, pointing out that the UAE represents an advanced model in this field through qualitative projects in Abu Dhabi, including integrated destinations on Yas and Saadiyat Islands, in addition to future projects that enhance the country’s position as a global center for the entertainment industry.
He pointed out that the region is no longer satisfied with adopting existing global models, but rather is developing its own concepts and innovating new experiences that transcend traditional boundaries, with a focus on integrating advanced technology such as virtual and augmented reality, and providing immersive personal experiences for visitors, in addition to adhering to sustainability standards, which strengthens its position at the forefront of the global transformation in the entertainment industry.
He said that Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the IAAPA Middle East Exhibition and Conference reflects the emirate’s growing global standing and its ability to attract the most prominent experts, investors and decision-makers from around the world, stressing that adopting the exhibition as an annual event contributes to enhancing the exchange of knowledge, building partnerships and supporting the sustainable growth of the sector.
He explained that the exhibition is distinguished by the fact that it is designed specifically for the region, and not just a duplicate of an existing global model. It is the first integrated international exhibition organized by IAAPA in the Middle East, and it received a very strong response from the sector, as the entire exhibition space was sold, with the participation of more than 325 companies confirmed, along with visitors from various regions of the world.
He pointed out that what distinguishes this exhibition in particular is the context in which it is held. The Middle East and Africa are among the most dynamic and growing markets in the field of leisure tourism, where the level of ambition, investment and long-term planning provides an environment in which global ideas meet with real and tangible opportunities.
He said that education constitutes a fundamental pillar of the exhibition experience, as it provides a targeted educational program that is in line with the sector’s priorities regionally and globally, and provides practical insights covering various areas of the entertainment attractions industry. The most prominent events include “Sports and Entertainment Day,” which explores the intersection of sports, entertainment, and tourist attractions, and “Museums Day,” which focuses on museums and cultural attractions within the visitor economy system.
He added that the education program will include EDUTours educational tours that allow participants to see the most prominent destinations on Yas and Saadiyat Islands, and give them a practical understanding of how to implement integrated entertainment projects, with a focus on operational processes, safety, sustainability and guest experience.
The IAAPA Middle East Exhibition and Conference provides unique opportunities to explore the latest innovations in the world of entertainment, communicate with sector leaders, and contribute to shaping the future of entertainment destinations in the region. Attendees will also learn about new entertainment products, meet the most important sector experts, in addition to gaining unique information about the latest trends and technologies in the field.
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