Abu Dhabi, UAE – Last year, the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions tourism sector in Abu Dhabi attracted 2.2 million participants, a growth of 40%. Of these, 1.53 million are visitors and participants in exhibitions and business conferences (with a share of 70%), and 439 thousand are visitors to meetings and incentive events (with a share of 20%). And 185,000 participants in major associations and forums (a share of 8.4%), according to the annual report of the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism.
The meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions sector is a key pillar of the 2030 Tourism Strategy. It continues to play a pivotal role in consolidating the emirate’s position as a world-leading tourist destination for hosting business events.
This vital sector, led by the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Office, has witnessed significant year-on-year growth in the emirate, a trend that will continue strongly during 2025. Through close cooperation with local and international partners, the office achieved a significant increase in the number of events held. In terms of visitor numbers, the office has established new partnerships and consolidated existing ones, contributing to consolidating the foundations for the sector’s future growth.
Major events
The meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions tourism sector recorded remarkable growth. The number of events increased by 37%. To reach 6,600 events, and attract 2.2 million participants. An increase of 40% year-on-year.
The most prominent drivers behind this growth included major events, including IDEX and NAFDEX (about 206,000 participants), and the Make in the Emirates Forum (about 122,000 participants). Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (about 50,000 participants), and the first session of the Bridge Summit (about 39,000 participants).
The Abu Dhabi Opportunities Program of the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Office contributed to supporting 175 events that attracted 464,000 participants. An increase of 28% compared to 2024, and 53 association conferences.
world class facilities
Abu Dhabi provides integrated infrastructure and world-class event facilities, such as ADNEC Abu Dhabi and Al Ittihad Arena. In addition to its wonderful hotels and resorts, and a flight network linking it to the world via Zayed International Airport.
The emirate continues to host the most important events that achieve a sustainable legacy, strengthening its position as a destination where global dialogues transform into practical steps towards a better future based on progress and innovation.
According to the department’s data, attendance at cultural and entertainment events increased by 20%, reaching 4.2 million participants.
International attractiveness
The Emirate of Abu Dhabi welcomed 26.6 million visitors in 2025, a new record that strengthens its position as a global cultural capital and a preferred tourist destination. Driven by its growing international appeal and rising visitor numbers, it contributes to achieving a long-term sustainable economic impact. The number of hotel guests reached 5.9 million, a clear indication of the progress made towards achieving the goals of the “Tourism Strategy 2030”.
Hotels saw a 10% increase in international visitors from key markets, according to department data.
