Tag Archives: IAAPA

IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry, announced that IAAPA Expo Middle East will not move forward as planned on 1 July 2026 following a meeting with the IAAPA Board of Directors. IAAPA has been closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East as recent events continue to unfold. The safety and well-being of IAAPA members, exhibitors, attendees, partners, and colleagues remains the association’s highest priority. After careful consideration, the IAAPA Board of Directors met Tuesday and confirmed that IAAPA Expo Middle East will not move forward as planned. The decision followed extensive discussions with key stakeholders, including the IAAPA EMEA Regional Advisory Board, the IAAPA EMEA Manufacturers & Suppliers Committee, the feedback of the MENALAC Board of Directors, exhibitors, speakers, and local members. “This was not an easy decision,” said Jakob Wahl, President and CEO of IAAPA. “We recognize the time, investment, and commitment of our members and partners dedicated to what would have been the inaugural IAAPA Expo Middle East. We are grateful for their support and understanding as we prioritize the safety and best interests of our global community.” IAAPA will be in direct communication with exhibitors, sponsors, speakers, and registered attendees regarding next steps. The association remains committed to supporting the attractions industry across the region and looks forward to bringing the community together at next year’s IAAPA Expo Middle East, scheduled to take place 12–15 April 2027.

IAAPA and the Middle East and North Africa Leisure and Attractions Council (MENALAC) will join forces to launch IAAPA MENA, aligning activities and merging efforts to best serve members and advance the industry. The official launch will be celebrated during IAAPA Expo Middle East and be officially in place 1st July 2026. IAAPA, the global association for the attractions industry announced plans to strengthen its support and deepen its commitment to members and the rapidly growing attractions industry across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region with the establishment of a new regional office.  The announcement reflects IAAPA’s continued investment in one of the world’s fastest-growing markets for tourism, leisure, and entertainment. As part of this expansion, IAAPA and the Middle East and North Africa Leisure and Attractions Council (MENALAC) will join forces to launch IAAPA MENA, aligning activities and merging efforts to best serve members and advance the industry. A respected voice for the region since its establishment in 2016, MENALAC was founded by leading entertainment companies with a shared commitment to ensuring the MENA leisure and attractions sector is represented, supported, and positioned for long-term growth in an increasingly dynamic global marketplace. Through this collaboration, IAAPA builds upon the strong foundation MENALAC has established over the past decade—championing the region’s interests, elevating industry standards, and fostering collaboration among theme parks operators, amusement parks, visitor attractions, family entertainment centers, manufacturers and suppliers. Together, IAAPA and MENALAC will provide localized education, advocacy, research, resources, and expanded networking opportunities while connecting professionals in the region to IAAPA’s global community. The collaboration also recognizes MENALAC’s leadership and the Middle East’s growing expertise in the regional indoor amusement and family entertainment sector, ensuring …