Abu Dhabi has confirmed that it will be hosting the first-ever M&I Expo from April 14th to 16th, 2026 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).

The expo is a result of a strategic partnership between The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Worldwide Events, aiming to attract the MICE 1,000 — a select group of the most influential global buyers and suppliers in the MICE industry. This three-day event will feature curated one-to-one meetings and networking opportunities, along with various immersive destination experiences.

Building on the success of M&I Fest Global 2024 & 2025 in Marrakech, the new expo format promises to blend the energy of large exhibitions with M&I’s focus on fostering high-value business connections that last. According to Mubarak Al Shamsi, the Director of the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau:

“Hosting the M&I Expo in Abu Dhabi reinforces the emirate’s strength and sustained growth as a premier destination for business events and incentive travel. With iconic venues like Qasr Al Watan and Yas Marina Circuit, plus new attractions like teamLab Phenomena, this event will showcase the very best of Abu Dhabi.”

Richard Barnes, Chief Executive of M&I, added:

“M&I Expo aims to deliver more valuable connections than any previous show. We want to emphasize quality over quantity, catering exclusively to the elite of the MICE industry.”

Attendees will participate in a pre-scheduled meeting format, experience immersive brand activations, hear from expert keynote speakers, and enjoy a premium networking experience in a fully hosted environment. This event aligns with Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to position business events as a key economic growth pillar.

The emirate has already welcomed 1.4 million overnight guests in just the first quarter of this year, indicating robust international growth from major markets, including India, China, Russia, the UK, and the USA.

ADNEC and the destination of Abu Dhabi will work together to attract global exhibitors such as tourism boards, convention and visitor bureaus (CVBs), hotel brands, conference centers, DMCs, and technology providers to showcase their offerings at this high-profile event. Overall, M&I Expo 2026 is poised to set a new standard in the global MICE calendar where exclusivity, experience, and business converge.