The UAE has cemented its status as a global leader in MICE tourism, dominating the industry in the Middle East with a 50% market share worth $5.62 billion as of 2024. Further growth is expected at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.83% propelling the sector to $8.58 billion by 2029. Dubai’s exceptional event infrastructure and luxurious tourism offerings have no doubt been key drivers of the UAE’s success, positioning it as a premier MICE destination.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar are also making waves in the MICE sector, with Riyadh recently hosting the Saudi Event Show (SES) rom 11-12 September. The event drew around 4,500 industry professionals. The Kingdom’s MICE industry is poised for significant expansion, with a projected 9.49% CAGR, surging from $2.38 billion in 2024 to $3.45 billion by 2029. Fuelled by the country’s economic transformation and strategic investments in key cities including Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, Saudi Arabia is one to watch as a rising star in the global MICE landscape.

Thanks to high-profile events like Expo 2020, the FIFA World Cup, and MDLBEAST Soundstorm, which have injected significant momentum into tourism, job creation, and infrastructure growth, the The Middle East is rapidly emerging as a premier MICE destination. This upward trajectory is set to continue, with the region’s events market projected to reach a staggering $76.67 billion by 2028.

The growth of the events and MICE sector across MENA is mostly spearheaded by Dubai, Doha, and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the region’s ascendance as trailblazers and emerging forces of transformation. As these destinations continue to push the boundaries of innovation and excellence, the region solidifies its position as a premier hub for world-class events and conferences.