The global trade exhibition landscape has been increasingly affected by economic factors, most notably tariffs. The ongoing complexities in trade policies and tariffs have emerged as significant challenges for exhibitors and organizers alike. At the recent UFI’s MEA Conference held in Cairo, Dr. Barış Onay shed light on these pressing issues and their implications for the trade show sector.

The exhibition industry in the Middle East and Africa is experiencing significant transformation, largely due to a combination of sustained economic growth and focused governmental initiatives aimed at enhancing business tourism. As highlighted during the recent UFI MEA Conference in Cairo, the region is expected to see profound changes in its exhibition landscape, supported by investments in venue infrastructure and a commitment to fostering international and local events.

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a significant player in the global exhibition market. The excitement surrounding the country's exhibition landscape is palpable, especially following the success of the previous year's International MICE Summit. Industry experts are optimistic about the influx of international organizers eager to establish a presence in this promising market.

Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) has recently established Expo 2030 Riyadh Co. (ERC), which will oversee the country's inaugural World Expo. This significant development aims to facilitate the infrastructure and programming of the event, marking a major step towards diversifying the Saudi economy in line with the Vision 2030 initiative.

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The Elevator Show Dubai (TES) is a vital trade fair that highlights innovations and developments in the vertical transportation industry. As scheduled, the next edition will occur on 21-23 September 2026 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This show has garnered international interest, evident from its previous success in attracting 3,700 visitors from 76 countries along with 110 exhibitors in its last edition.