Abu Dhabi has been confirmed as the host city for the inaugural M&I Expo, set to take place from 14–16 April 2026, in a landmark move that further positions the emirate as a world-class hub for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) sector.
The strategic partnership between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and global events provider Worldwide Events will bring the ‘MICE 1,000’ – a curated group of the most influential global decision-makers in the MICE industry – to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) for three days of high-level networking, collaboration and innovation.
This flagship event marks a significant evolution for M&I, following the sold-out success of its previous editions of M&I Fest Global. In contrast to larger, less targeted trade shows, M&I Expo promises a more focused, immersive experience with a strong emphasis on quality over quantity. The format will include pre-scheduled one-to-one meetings, hosted networking lunches, evening socials and engaging keynote sessions.
Richard Barnes, CEO of M&I, said the Abu Dhabi edition of M&I Expo will redefine how global MICE professionals connect. “We aim to deliver more valuable connections than any show that’s previously existed. Our focus is on attracting the 1,000 most influential delegates — not too big, not too small — just the right size to facilitate meaningful business,” he said.
Exhibitors will include global tourism boards, hotel brands, destination management companies, technology providers and major convention bureaus. The showcase will also highlight storytelling-driven brand spaces, encouraging immersive engagement between buyers and suppliers.
Mubarak Al Shamsi, Director of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, called the announcement a testament to the emirate’s strategic investment in its MICE ecosystem: “Hosting M&I Expo reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a premier destination for business events and incentive travel. With our exceptional venues and rich cultural heritage, we are well-placed to welcome global delegates and showcase everything our destination has to offer.”
Beyond ADNEC, buyers will experience Abu Dhabi’s iconic cultural and lifestyle landmarks such as Qasr Al Watan, Yas Marina Circuit, and the newly opened teamLab Phenomena.
The announcement is aligned with the emirate’s long-term Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to drive diversified economic growth, create sustainable tourism infrastructure, and position Abu Dhabi as a leading global destination. MICE events are central to this ambition, providing platforms for knowledge exchange, innovation and lasting international partnerships.
The city’s tourism sector has already shown strong performance in 2025, with 1.4 million overnight visitors in Q1 and continued growth from key international markets including India, China, Russia, the UK, and the US.
With the launch of M&I Expo 2026, Abu Dhabi continues to shape its future as a capital of international business, hospitality and culture – delivering world-class experiences with lasting global impact.