IFES World Summit 2026 heads to Dubai

16.02.2026

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. “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.

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.

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.

“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.”