IAAPA Institute for Indoor Professionals – Abu Dhabi

Sharing a conversation with Institute learning

The IAAPA Institute for Indoor Professionals is designed for newcomers to the Family Entertainment Center (FEC) sector, offering a fast-track introduction to the essentials of operating and managing indoor entertainment attractions.

This interactive two-day program, held alongside IAAPA Expo Middle East in Abu Dhabi, is built on the proven success formula of IAAPA’s most popular FEC training in the United States. For the very first time in the Middle East, participants will experience this industry-leading program, uniquely focused on the indoor entertainment segment — the region’s largest and fastest-growing market.

Designed to build both confidence and practical skills, the Institute equips participants to thrive in one of the most dynamic sectors of the attractions industry.

The Format

Participants will learn through peer interactive discussions, and presentations from seasoned Indoor Entertainment operators.

What You’ll Learn

Crafting Your Brand Story: Building Identity, Value, and Community
Considering Opening a Family Entertainment Center? Key Insights for Success
Funding Strategies: Identifying and Securing Capital for Your Venture
Managing Challenges in the Entertainment Industry: When the Fun Isn't So Fun
Strategic Staffing: Hiring for Growth, Culture, and Operational Harmony
Developing a Business Case for an Entertainment Venue Through Market Analysis
Capital Fundraising Strategies: Legal, Financial, and Regulatory Considerations
Fundamentals of FEC and Location-Based Entertainment Design
Delivering a Modern Food and Beverage Experience: Trends and Best Practices
Planning an Arcade: Key Considerations for a Successful Operation
Creating a Strategic Marketing Plan for a Successful Launch

What is Included

Registration for IAAPA Institute for Indoor Professionals on Friday 03 and Saturday 04 April 2026.
Face-to-face sessions led by industry experts and subject-matter specialists
Printed Course Book and supplemental learning materials
Networking opportunities with peers and mentors
Networking Lunch on 03 and Saturday 04 April 2026
Certificate of Completion and CEUs for IAAPA certification

Faculty

Experienced FEC operators, consultants, and business leaders will guide sessions, sharing actionable strategies from their own career journeys.

Who Should Attend?

New employees (middle management) at Family Entertainment Centers
Young professionals entering the FEC industry
Entrepreneurs planning to open or manage an FEC

What You’ll Learn

Guest Experience: Creating memorable moments for families
Revenue Management: Arcade, attractions, food & beverage best practices
Operations: Scheduling, staffing, and day-to-day management
Marketing & Sales: Attracting families and building loyalty
Safety in FECs: Establishing safe environments for all guests

Why Attend?

Gain a solid foundation in FEC operations
Build connections with mentors and peers in the sector
Acquire practical tools to implement immediately in your FEC

Please note this is an additional ticket to IAAPA Expo Middle East registration. Interested attendees can add on this ticket when completing IAAPA Expo Middle East Registration.

Please note that attendees must be at least 18 years old to participate.

Region:

Europe, Middle East, Africa

Event Time:

April 3, 2026 - April 04 2026 | All Day +04

Venue: In-Person

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Address:

Abu Dhabi
United Arab Emirates

Session Type: Education

Currency

PRICING	Member	Nonmember
Pricing IAAPA Institute for Indoor Professionals	649.00	1070.00

Pricing includes 5% VAT

See What Our Members Are Saying

Discover how IAAPA membership has positively impacted businesses across the attractions industry

- From the M&S side I love the app and its come so far in recent years. No matter if you are on the M&S side or park side be sure down download and spend some time in the app before the show. There are people and companies in the building next week at IAAPA Expo who you want to meet with but don’t even know they are attending - the app is your answer!
  Jamie Flaherty, ICAE
  VP, Business Development and Marketing | Netserv Applications
- We’ve really enjoyed working with the Connect+ platform over the past few shows. It’s been a game-changer in helping us connect with attendees more efficiently and keep track of meaningful conversations throughout the event. The interface is intuitive, and the personal training session helped our team feel confident using all the features right away.
  Brett Beadle
  Digital Marketing Specialist | Gateway Ticketing Systems, Inc.
- Connect+ is a great tool that I can use to prepare and participate in IAAPA events. Being able to see the attendee list allows me to strategize what conversations and meetings I want to have ahead of time, and I can connect with those people directly in the app. It also keeps me organized during an event. Each day will have a full schedule, and if I turn on push notifications, it will let me know what event is coming up and where it is so I can stay on track.
  Megan Gannon
  Business Development Manager | Themed Entertainment
- IAAPA Expo is always a whirlwind, but IAAPA Connect+ kept me organized and focused. Before the show, I was able to map out my entire experience, from scheduling meetings to bookmarking EDUSessions and booths I wanted to visit on the show floor. During the event, I just pulled out my phone and the app guided me through my schedule, ensuring I didn't miss a thing. It was like having a personal assistant dedicated to making my expo experience a success. I felt more organized, more connected, and more confident than ever before. I can't imagine attending another IAAPA Expo without it!
  Cassidy Newman
  Managing Director | Carousel Communications