The International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES) announces its 2026 World Summit in Dubai, embodying the theme: “Beyond Boundaries.”
Building on the warm celebrations in Guadalajara in 2025, IFES continues its mission to connect people, share knowledge, and open doors to new opportunities for the global exhibition and events community, now extending from the Gulf’s skyline.
Beyond Boundaries is more than a theme
“This is not just a slogan. ‘Beyond Boundaries’ is a call to think differently, explore new ideas and push past the limits of what we’ve done before – in our businesses, our designs, our partnerships and our industry. Dubai, with its role as a crossroads between East and West, is the perfect stage for these conversations,” says IFES Executive Director, Gregor Bischkopf.
The Gulf region is fast becoming a powerhouse for international events. Dubai’s commitment to excellence, innovation and world-class hospitality makes it an ideal place for IFES members and partners to explore fresh opportunities, build regional partnerships and deepen our understanding of this important market. Taking this into consideration and in keeping with the overarching theme, this landmark event is also open to non-members who see benefit from the integration with the global network.
The value of being together
If there’s one thing the 2025 event in Guadalajara reminded IFES members, it’s that nothing matches the power of meeting in person. The IFES World Summit is more than a conference – it’s a space for members to connect with people who understand their world. It’s those moments over coffee where an idea turns into a project, or a hallway chat that leads to a long-term partnership.
This year’s World Summit in Dubai creates a balance of inspiring content and meaningful conversation, combining sessions that spark new thinking with plenty of time for networking, reconnecting and sharing stories with colleagues from around the globe.
A programme for learning, sharing and growing
Delegates can expect three days of rich content and connection, exploring the topics that matter most to the Exhibition and Events industry right now – from new technologies and sustainable practices to fresh approaches in design, creativity and client engagement.
As always, the programme will be shaped by IFES’ own members’ experiences and the challenges and opportunities they see ahead. Interactive workshops, panel discussions and keynote talks will run alongside informal social events, giving everyone the chance to both learn and recharge.
Why Dubai matters for IFES
Hosting the Summit in Dubai is a clear statement of intent. The city’s position as a global hub for trade and events means that IFES members will be right at the centre of a thriving marketplace. It’s a chance to experience the innovation and ambition that defines the Gulf events sector – and to strengthen IFES’ presence in a region full of potential.
From the spectacular venues and infrastructure to the warmth of its welcome, Dubai will offer an inspiring setting for the global network to explore new horizons.
Dubai’s exhibition and event infrastructure is world-renowned. The Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), where the event will be hosted, stands as the region’s largest and most established event venue, hosting more than 500 events annually. The city’s hospitality offering is equally impressive, with thousands of hotel rooms spanning every category, all supported by excellent transport links that make getting around simple and efficient. Together, these assets create an unmatched environment for both formal business and informal networking experiences.
“Dubai represents everything we want to capture in our ‘Beyond Boundaries’ theme. It’s a meeting point for the world, where ideas, cultures and industries connect. The 2026 World Summit will be a moment for our members to push past the familiar and embrace what’s next, together,” says Jörg Zeissig, IFES President. “Our 2025 attendees left Guadalajara energised and grateful for the connections and insights shared there and now can look ahead to Dubai 2026. Together, we’ll explore what it means to go ‘Beyond Boundaries’ in every sense: breaking down barriers between regions, cultures and ideas, and finding new ways to work together for the future of our industry.”
Whether delegates are returning for their fifteenth Summit or joining for the first time, the IFES World Summit 2026 in Dubai will offer an unmatched opportunity to connect, learn and be inspired in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
Early Bird Pricing is available until 14 February, and IFES members aged 35 years and under can benefit from a 50% discount for this special event.
Learn more and pre-register: https://www.ifesnet.com/events-all/ws26-dubai/
