Abu Dhabi will host the IAAPA (International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions) Expo Middle East in 2026, with the event scheduled to take place from March 30 to April 2 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The exhibition is being organised in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi.
The expo will bring together global industry leaders, senior executives and specialised companies from the attractions and leisure sector. Participants will include operators, suppliers and developers working across theme parks, water parks, indoor entertainment centres, museums, cultural venues and destination-based attractions.
Organisers said the exhibition space has been fully booked, with more than 325 exhibitors confirmed. The trade show will feature products and services covering rides and attractions, water park systems, themed entertainment solutions, technology platforms, and safety and operational equipment.
An education program will run alongside the exhibition, focusing on current industry needs. Sessions will be tailored to different segments of the attractions sector, alongside structured forums for professional interaction.
The program also includes a series of EDUTours, offering behind-the-scenes access to key attractions in the UAE. Planned visits include Adrenak Adventure, Pixoul Gaming and The National Aquarium as part of an indoor entertainment tour, as well as a museum-focused visit to teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi. Additional tours will provide access to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, which will host the opening reception.
Professional training will form part of the event through IAAPA’s certification programs. These include the Institute for Attraction Professionals, the Institute for Indoor Entertainment Professionals and the Safety Institute, with each course offering structured learning and credit hours toward IAAPA certification.
IAAPA EMEA Executive Director and Vice President Peter van der Schans said the expo is intended to support the regional attractions industry through education, professional standards and collaboration, while linking regional development with international expertise.
IAAPA President and Chief Executive Officer Jakob Wahl said the Middle East remains a key market for the global attractions industry, with the expo aimed at supporting knowledge exchange, industry cooperation and long-term sector growth.