IAAPA Expands in MENA Region with New Office in Dubai to Strengthen Attractions Industry Across UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Beyond!

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) has revealed plans to significantly enhance its support for the rapidly growing attractions industry in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by opening a new regional office in Dubai, UAE. This major announcement, made today, highlights the association’s commitment to strengthening its presence in one of the world’s most dynamic and fast-expanding markets for tourism, leisure, and entertainment. The new office is set to officially launch on July 1, 2026, during the IAAPA Expo Middle East event.

This strategic move aligns with IAAPA’s ongoing investment in the MENA region, which has seen tremendous growth in recent years. Countries like the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia are emerging as global leaders in the tourism and leisure sectors, fueling the development of world-class attractions such as branded theme parks, amusement parks, and innovative family entertainment centers. IAAPA’s expansion aims to further position the MENA region as a key player in the global attractions landscape.

What Is the IAAPA MENA Regional Expansion?

The announcement of IAAPA’s new regional office in Dubai marks the next phase in the association’s strategy to support the MENA attractions industry. The office will serve as the central hub for IAAPA’s operations in the region, providing resources, advocacy, education, and networking opportunities for attractions professionals across the MENA region. IAAPA has long been the global leader in representing the attractions industry, and with this new office, the association aims to cater to the unique needs of MENA-based operators, suppliers, and manufacturers.

Additionally, IAAPA will collaborate closely with the Middle East and North Africa Leisure and Attractions Council (MENALAC), a key regional organization founded in 2016. MENALAC has been a significant advocate for the MENA leisure and attractions sector, and this partnership will enable IAAPA to combine its global expertise with MENALAC’s regional knowledge. This collaboration aims to elevate industry standards, advance professional development, and foster growth in the MENA attractions market.

Where Will the New IAAPA Office Be Located?

The new IAAPA regional office will be based in Dubai, one of the most important tourism and business hubs in the MENA region. Dubai is known for its world-class infrastructure, luxury resorts, and entertainment destinations, making it the ideal location for IAAPA’s expansion into the MENA market. The office will oversee IAAPA’s operations across the MENA region, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and other key markets in North Africa and the Middle East.

Who Are the Key Stakeholders in the MENA Expansion?

The key stakeholders in IAAPA’s MENA expansion are IAAPA and MENALAC, which have come together to establish IAAPA MENA. MENALAC, a respected voice in the region, has played a vital role in advocating for the interests of MENA’s attractions industry since its formation. Through this collaboration, IAAPA aims to leverage MENALAC’s decade-long expertise in the region while offering enhanced resources, localized education, research, and networking opportunities to attractions professionals.

In addition to this partnership, IAAPA will establish a Regional Advisory Board, composed of IAAPA and MENALAC members, to guide regional priorities and strategies. This board will ensure that the specific needs of the region’s diverse attractions community are met. The board’s chair will also have a regular seat on IAAPA’s Global Board of Directors, strengthening MENA’s representation at the global level.

Why Is This Expansion Important for the MENA Region?

This expansion is crucial for the MENA region, which has seen massive investments in tourism, leisure, and entertainment over the past decade. The UAE and Saudi Arabia, in particular, have poured billions of dollars into developing world-class attractions, from large-scale branded theme parks to locally inspired experiences. This growth has led to the MENA region becoming one of the most promising markets for leisure and tourism globally. The new IAAPA MENA office will provide the region’s operators, manufacturers, and suppliers with the tools, resources, and connections they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.

As IAAPA strengthens its presence in the MENA region, the collaboration with MENALAC will ensure that the region’s attractions industry is well-supported, with dedicated advocacy, education, and safety standards that align with international best practices. This partnership will also enhance networking opportunities, allowing local professionals to connect with IAAPA’s global community and benefit from the latest industry trends and innovations.

How Will IAAPA Support the MENA Region Moving Forward?

The establishment of IAAPA MENA will provide the region with a more localized approach to education, research, and advocacy. The regional office will focus on several key areas:

1. Safety: Establishing dedicated committees for safety, ensuring that attractions across the region adhere to international safety standards.
2. Education: Offering training programs, workshops, and seminars to elevate the skills of the region’s workforce and provide ongoing professional development opportunities.
3. Manufacturers and Suppliers: Strengthening ties with manufacturers and suppliers to ensure that the region has access to the latest technologies and innovations in the attractions industry.
4. Advocacy: Representing the interests of the region’s attractions industry on a global stage and ensuring that MENA’s voice is heard in the wider IAAPA community.

In addition, IAAPA will continue to host major events such as the IAAPA Expo Middle East, which will serve as an important platform for industry leaders, media, and professionals to gather, share knowledge, and foster collaboration. With the new regional office, IAAPA is committed to driving sustainable growth, fostering innovation, and ensuring the long-term success of the MENA attractions industry.

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