AusLeisure

The International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) saw its inaugural Middle East Trade Summit offering opportunities for IAAPA to be introduced to new business owners and developers. The Summit welcomed more than 700 attendees during the two-day event held over 7th and 8th March that featured educational sessions, networking events, and EDUTours in Saudi Arabia’s capital city, Riyadh.

Peter van der Schans, vice president and executive director for IAAPA Europe, Middle East, Africa advised “as we continue growing our membership base, we have turned a focus on the Middle East as it is one of the fastest-growing regions for development within the attractions industry.

“This event allowed us to spend more time with our members based in Saudi Arabia while allowing us to introduce ourselves to new business owners and developers who would benefit from joining IAAPA.”

Ten education sessions covered a variety of topics such as the future workforce for the entertainment industry, an update on developments planned in Saudi Arabia, continued supply chain demands, and the art of excellent customer service. The program included more than 30 speakers from 13 countries. They represented established international companies like Disneyland Paris, Europa Park, Parques Reunidos and Six Flags Qiddiya.

The sold-out event featured 24 exhibiting companies in the Trade Connections Area, which allowed attendees and business owners to meet face-to-face and build new relationships and find potential industry partners.

One highlight of the event was an EDUTour visit to Boulevard Riyadh City – a 900,000 square meters entertainment zone – opened in 2021 during Riyadh Season, a state-sponsored annual entertainment festival. The EDUTour to the recently opened Boulevard World, a new world showcase with rides and entertainment spread throughout 16 zones, was also enjoyed by attendees.

IAAPA partnered with the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) to support the entertainment industry in the country and to organise this event.

Image: Boulevard Riyadh City

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