Expo Middle East Institutes

Friday - Saturday, 3 - 4 April 2026, Abu Dhabi 

The IAAPA Institute for Attractions Professionals (IAP) is the premier development program designed for those seeking a comprehensive foundation in the essential operational areas needed to run various types of attractions.

For Attractions and Entertainment industry Professionals

• Individuals with up to five years in attractions and entertainment industry
• Young professionals exploring a career in the industry
• Those with experience in museums, aquariums, zoos, theme parks, family, and more

Comprehensive Topics and Various Teaching Formats
IAP covers key topics required for attraction managers delivered through workshops, expert-led sessions, and valuable networking opportunities. So attendees leave ready to drive innovation and excellence in their organisations.

• Finance & IT Essentials: Financial metrics, budgeting, cybersecurity basics
• Marketing, PR & Sales: Integrated marketing plans, social media strategy, brand purpose
• Human Resources: Effective recruiting, onboarding, team leadership, DEI
• Facility Operations: Building a service culture, risk assessment, safety management
• Revenue Operations: Food & beverage best practices, games, merchandise
• Entertainment: Production costs, immersive experiences, designing shows for all audiences

In Person Learning, EDUTour and Certification Included

• Registration for IAAPA Institute for Attractions Professionals Friday 3 and Saturday 4 April 2026.
• Face-to-face sessions led by industry experts and subject-matter specialists
• Interactive projects and group work to build practical skills
• Supplemental online resources and online IAAPA courses
• Printed Course Book to support learning activities
• Networking Lunch
• Backstage EDUTour of a theme park
• Certificate of Completion and CEUs for IAAPA certification

Group Discount: For every three participants from one organisation, the fourth attends free!

For registration details or any additional questions, please contact Tom Van Liefferinge at [email protected], +32 485863652.

Friday - Saturday, 3 - 4 April 2026, Abu Dhabi 

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. 

It 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. 

For Family Entertainment Centers Professionals

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

Comprehensive Topics and Various Teaching Formats 
Participants will learn various key topics through peer interactive discussions, and presentations from seasoned Indoor Entertainment operators.

• Crafting 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

In Person Learning and Certification Included 

Registration for IAAPA Institute for Indoor Professionals on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 April 2026. 

For registration details or any additional questions, please contact Tom Van Liefferinge at [email protected], +32 485863652.

Friday, 3 April 2026, Abu Dhabi 

The IAAPA Safety Institute is a beginner-focused, one-day program designed for entry-level attraction operators and professionals in operations, maintenance, and safety. It introduces participants to international best practices, regulatory requirements, and proactive approaches to managing risk. It offers a unique chance to strengthen foundation in safe operations while supporting a culture of safety across the attractions and entertainment industry. 

For Safety and Operations Professionals

• Safety and operations managers at attractions
• Facility engineers and maintenance teams
• Industry professionals looking to enhance their knowledge of safety standards

Comprehensive Topics and Various Teaching Formats
The programme blends interactive lectures with case studies, group discussions, and knowledge-sharing opportunities. Participants learn directly from industry experts while engaging with peers to exchange experiences and practical insights.

• Safety Management Systems: Building a proactive safety culture
• Risk Assessment: Identifying and mitigating operational risks
• Emergency Preparedness: Crisis response and evacuation planning
• Regulatory Compliance: Understanding global and regional requirements
• Case Studies: Lessons learned from real-world safety incidents

In Person Learning and Certification Included

• Registration for IAAPA Safety Institute – Friday, 3 April 2026
• Expert-led sessions by international safety professionals
• Networking coffee breaks and lunch
• Certificate of Attendance and CEUs for IAAPA certification

For registration details or any additional questions, please contact Tom Van Liefferinge at [email protected], +32 485863652.