Exhibitions industry marks a strong comeback in Abu Dhabi

The exhibitions, conferences and events sector in Abu Dhabi is witnessing a strong comeback and has exceeded levels seen before the COVID-19 pandemic. ADNEC Group have attracted an outstanding collection of major global events, 12 of them being held for the first time in Abu Dhabi and in the Middle East, making up approximately 57 per cent of the overall events hosted at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre during the past four months of 2022.

The number of exhibitions organised and hosted at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre by the end of 2022 will mark a 16 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the global industry of exhibitions and events. The same period will also mark an 11 per cent increase in exhibition area for events during the last quarter of 2022 compared to the same timeframe in 2019.

The increase in demand by event organisers from around the world coincides with the approaching inauguration of the largest exhibition hall in the Middle East and North Africa.

The new hall will be built on an area of 10,000 square meters in the Arena area opposite the Centre, which is set to be inaugurated officially in October, with ADNEC Group developing this hall to increase its competitiveness, capacity, and ability to host a wide range of events simultaneously.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Managing Director and Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said: “These successes achieved by ADNEC are a result of the Group’s efforts to turn challenges into opportunities in a number of promising economic sectors that support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification plans, in accordance with the aspirations of our wise leadership for the next fifty years.

This is achieved through active contribution to creating a sustainable economy, and providing platforms that enhance the relaying and localisation of advanced knowledge in the UAE, with the goal of consolidating the Emirate’s standing as a capital for business tourism and leisure tourism sectors in the region.”

ADNEC Group is continuing its efforts in maintaining its position as a world-class venue with outstanding facilities suitable for any event, hosting a plethora of organisers, exhibitors, and visitors from the UAE and across the globe to this venue to give them the opportunity to showcase their latest technologies and network with industry experts and make lasting connections.

The last four months of 2022 will witness several leading events on regional and international levels. From Sept.12 to 14, the Centre hosted the Middle East Manufacturing & Technology Expo, the region’s only event dedicated to the manufacturing and industrialisation industry.

The event was co-located with Middle East Design & Build Week, aptly providing opportunities for the manufacturing and technology professionals to explore solutions in the construction and design sector.

The Abu Dhabi International Hunting & Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX), which is the Middle East and Africa’s largest annual event dedicated to hunting, equestrian and the promotion and preservation of cultural heritage, takes place between September 26 and October 2.

Taking place from Oct.7 to 9, is the biggest exhibition in the Middle East specialised in modified cars and bicycles - the Auto Moto Show. The event, which is held for the first time in Abu Dhabi, is set to host the world’s largest leading manufacturing companies for auto parts and accessories.

Following this, the International Exhibition of National Security and Resilience takes place from Oct.10 to 12. It will offer a unique networking platform connecting regional government bodies with security solution providers from across the globe. Organised by ADNEC Group, ISNR Abu Dhabi brings the national and cyber security community together to accelerate public-private collaboration for a safer connected world.

Following this, 48th Annual ISPAD Conference takes place from Oct.13 to 16. The event aims to promote clinical and basic science, research, education and advocacy in children, adolescents and young adults with diabetes. The strength of ISPAD lies in the scientific and clinical expertise in its members, and is the only international society and professional organisation focused on all types of childhood diabetes.

Held in partnership with the Department of Education and Knowledge in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, from Oct.16 to 18, the Centre will host the Abu Dhabi Najah Exhibition 2022, which will host several representatives from dozens of universities and educational institutions affiliated with many countries from around the world.

From Oct.20 to 21, the Centre will host The World Union of Wholesale Markets Conference (WUWM). This year’s edition will be held for the first time in the Middle East and will bring together the leading global authorities in the sector to improve food systems around the world - providing attendees with an excellent opportunity to communicate with the most important food suppliers.