A record 5,000 plus professionals took part in the 15th edition of the Middle East Event Show (MEES) in Dubai, which highlighted the sector’s vibrant growth trajectory, and honoured outstanding individuals and companies of the events and entertainment industry.

The event, which was held from June 12-13 at Madinat Jumeirah was attended by event organisers, event management agencies, entertainment professionals, marketing, public relations and creative specialists, event technology, service providers and other stakeholders in the Middle East.

This year’s event that and featured more than 40 free seminars on the show floor, covered critical industry topics such as event management, content development, sustainability, AI and technology, engagement strategies, entertainment, technology, special effects, marketing, and much more.

Research findings project that the events industry is set to reach an impressive $76.67 billion by 2028.

"The Middle East Event Show 2024 has been an extraordinary showcase of innovation, sustainability, and collaboration within the events industry,” remarked Amar Daginawala, Show Director of MEES.

“We are thrilled by the enthusiasm and participation of the industry professionals who have made this event a remarkable success.

“As we look ahead, we are excited to bring the same energy and excellence to the Saudi Event Show and continue to foster growth and innovation in the region.”

MEES is a platform for visitors to connect with vendors and suppliers, discover new insights and build impactful business connections.

Orkhan Abbas, CEO & Co-Founder at Muwafaq Events who visited MEES, said: "As a visitor of the Middle East Event Show 2024, I must say it was a remarkable experience. The event was well organized, with a diverse range of exhibitors showcasing the latest trends and innovations.

“The high-quality speakers and panel discussions provided valuable insights, and the networking opportunities were exceptional. I left feeling inspired and motivated, with new ideas and contacts that will benefit my event planning business.”

MEES 2024 was not only about celebrating achievements but also about fostering future opportunities.

The event laid emphasis on sustainability, the integration of AI and cutting-edge technology, and provided unparalleled networking opportunities.

Numerous partnerships were forged, and new business ventures were discussed, showcasing the robust potential and future of the events industry in the region.

To further strengthen the growth of the events industry in the region, the Saudi Event Show 2024 exhibition is returning for its 5th edition from September 11-12 at Mandarin Oriental Al Faisaliah Hotel, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

This event promises to be another unmissable gathering, connecting over 4,500 event professionals and more than 100 exhibitors from across the industry.

Middle East Event Awards

Numerous groundbreaking projects have solidified the UAE and the region as key players on the global stage. The Middle East Event Awards (MEEA) celebrated the achievements of the pioneering individuals and companies that have been honoured for their contributions.

Abdullah Al-Eesa, Head of Events Management at SIDF, a judge at the Middle East Event Awards, said: "I had an inspiring experience at the Middle East Event Awards 2024. The event was filled with opportunities to connect with industry leaders and explore the latest trends. Meeting the Awards winners and learning about their achievements was a highlight. Looking forward to next year's event!".

The 2024 Winners

• Best Arts and Culture Event: Saudi Arabia Ministry of Culture, Visual Arts Commission for RSH Street Art Festival
• Best Association/Corporate Meeting - Identity Events Management for RLM
• Best Community Event - Black Orange Live for GovGames 2024
• Best Employer of the Year - ELECTRA
• Best Entertainment Production - People for 52nd UAE Union Day
• Best Event Logistics Provider of the Year - EFM Global
• Best Event Logistics Provider of the Year - MOTUS | ONE

• Best Event Marketing Campaign of the Year - Tahaluf for LEAP 2024
• Best Event on a Budget - Viola Communications for DIFC Sculpture Park Launch: 2nd Edition
• Best Event Photography & Videography - Pico International LLC
• Best Event Space Design & Décor - Eventify Entertainment for SOLE DXB
• Best Exhibition of the Year - Informa Markets for Dubai Airshow
• Best Festival of the Year - UNTOLD for UNTOLD Dubai
• Best Light & Sound Solution - Creative Technology for Dubai World Cup Closing Ceremony
• Best Music Event - The Fridge Entertainment for Ben&Ben Live Concert in Coca-Cola Arena, Dubai
• Best Social Event - Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons for Dubai Watch Week 2023
• Best Sporting Event - Black Orange Live in partnership with Saudi Motorsport Company for Saudi Dakar 2024
• Best Staffing Agency - Shine
• Best Stand Design & Build - Buildup for IDEX 2023
• Best Stand Design & Build - DXB LIVE, Dubai World Trade Center for Arab Health 2024
• Best Supplier of the Year - ELECTRA
• Best Sustainability Initiative - Identity Events Management
• Best Temporary Venue or Structure - People for 52nd UAE Union Day
• Best Use of New Technology at an Event - Expo City Dubai for Large Scale Real-Time Content Creation
• Best Venue - Etihad Arena
• Best Video Solution - Creative Technology for 52nd UAE Union Day Ceremony
• Best Video Solution - mediaPro International for Bureau Béatrice (One Za’abeel Opening Ceremony)
• Best Wedding Event of the Year - Vivaah Weddings for Love Beyond The Stars
• Industry Icon - Martin Luiz from SLS Production Middle East
• Outstanding Brand Activation Event - Capital 360 Event Experiences for ADQ Carnival
• Young Achiever of the Year - Maddy Spicer from MENA Live Events

The next edition of MEES will be held from June 18-19, 2025. – TradeArabia News Service