When you think of the Middle East, your mind might jump straight to golden deserts, futuristic skylines, and falconry. It’s all of that and so much more! It is also one of the hottest regions on the planet for global conventions and mega-events – much thanks to its prime location that’s a stone’s throw away from Europe, Asia, and Africa. Coupled with jaw-dropping contemporary and high-tech venues and a flair for luxury, the Middle East has catapulted to becoming the boardroom and events venue of the world.
So if you’re an event planner, business traveller, or simply curious about where the world’s most important conferences are (and likely will be) taking place, then this guide is your passport.
Why the Middle East is booming in MICE tourism
There are four key reasons the Middle East is outpacing traditional hubs:
- Location! Location! Location: With most of the world just a flight or two away, it’s a dream for international delegates.
- Luxury meets logistics: Ultra-modern airports, highways that feel like Formula 1 tracks, and more five-star hotels than you can count.
- Governments going big: From Dubai’s early moves into business tourism to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, investment in convention infrastructure is massive.
- The variety factor: Where else can you attend a fintech summit in the morning and be on a camel ride through the desert by sunset?
The best convention centres in the Middle East
Let’s roll out the red carpet for the region’s standouts.
Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), UAE
This is the granddaddy of convention centres in the region. With over a million square feet of space and an endless calendar of expos, DWTC is where global industries set up shop. And when the day’s done, you’ve got the whole of Dubai’s nightlife and dining scene right outside the door.
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), UAE
Sleek, sprawling, and sitting right on the waterfront, ADNEC is as versatile as it is massive. With a 6,000-seat conference hall and a dozen exhibition halls, it’s hosted everything from defence expos to medical congresses. Bonus points for being minutes away from Abu Dhabi’s luxury hotels and Yas Island attractions.
Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC), Doha
Sustainability meets spectacle. QNCC is eco-certified, futuristic in design, and houses a 4,000-seat conference hall, theatre, and dozens of meeting rooms. Qatar’s global ambition shines through here — you might even spot a global summit with royalty and heads of state walking the same halls as your team.
Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), Bahrain
A fresh face but already a star, this centre only opened in 2022 and is the largest in Bahrain. With ten halls and facilities that can host multiple mega-events at once, it’s quickly become the kingdom’s crown jewel for MICE tourism.
Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre (BIECC), Bahrain
Manama’s long-standing player, BIECC is more compact but still packs a punch. It’s perfect for medium-sized expos and offers easy access to Bahrain’s business district.
Oman Convention & Exhibition Centre (OCEC), Muscat
Think modern convention space wrapped in traditional Islamic architecture. OCEC features a 3,200-seat auditorium, multiple halls, and a prime location near Muscat International Airport. It’s built for big business but with an artistic flair that feels authentically Omani.
Riyadh International Convention & Exhibition Center, Saudi Arabia
Riyadh is one of the fastest-growing event cities in the world, and this centre is at the heart of it. Open since 2009, it’s seen everything from trade expos to serving as the city’s COVID-19 vaccination hub. Expect even bigger things as Saudi continues its massive investment push.
King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Centre, Jordan
Perched on the shores of the Dead Sea, this centre is as scenic as it is functional. It has hosted world leaders and global conferences, all against one of the most stunning natural backdrops you’ll ever see. Definitely a “business meets beauty” location.
What makes these venues world-class?
It’s not just size that matters (though some of these halls are the size of small cities). Here’s what really sets them apart:
- Tech & hybrid friendly: High-speed connectivity, translation systems, and smart meeting tools are standard.
- Flexibility: Spaces that morph from intimate boardrooms to mega expos.
- Accessibility: Close to major airports and transport, so no delegate feels stranded.
- Luxury factor: From gourmet catering to VIP lounges, the hospitality game is strong.
- Global prestige: Many of these centres host award-winning global events year after year.
Tips for hosting an event in the Middle East
Planning to bring your team or event here? A few things to keep in mind:
- Timing is everything: Avoid the peak of summer unless you want your guests melting in suits. The sweet spot is October to April.
- Know the culture: Respect local customs and dress codes, especially in Saudi Arabia and Oman.
- Visas and paperwork: Each country has its own entry requirements, so double-check these early on and ensure you and delegates have everything in place before jumping on a flight over.
- Bleisure is big business: Encourage delegates to combine business with leisure. For example, a day at a conference can easily be followed by a desert safari, luxury shopping spree, foodie adventure, or a beach visit.
The future of Middle East conventions
The region isn’t slowing down. It’s very much the opposite. While Saudi Arabia is gearing up for Expo 2030 in Riyadh, Dubai’s Expo Cit, located next to Al Maktoum Airport (largest airport in the world) will be home to more than 300 events a year. Over in Bahrain, its shiny new Exhibition World is getting traction, and Oman is fast positioning itself as a sustainable events hub. Add in the rapid adoption of AI and hybrid event tech, and the Middle East is on track to dominate the global convention circuit.
