Dear readers, 

2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the MENA leisure and attractions industry with upcoming openings, regional firsts and exclusive MENALAC events designed to inform, celebrate, and bring the community together. The regional sector continues to surprise and inspire with more unique attractions and concepts emerging into the market; and we are as proud today as we have been since launching in 2016 at the strides our community and members are making with the aim of bringing joy to millions of guests.

On note of our events, spaces are filling up at the MENALAC Golf Day 2026 which is a day that goes beyond the fairway, offering a perfect blend of friendly competition, networking, and partnership-building. Get your ticket now to join decision-makers on 29 March 2026, for engaging conversations on the green. If you’re not a golfer or can’t attend the full day’s activities, you can join us from 5:30pm at the 19th Hole Sundowners Session for casual catch-ups and premium hospitality.

The 8th MENALAC Awards Gala is officially set for 1 April 2026 at the stunning SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. Hosted alongside the inaugural IAAPA Middle East Expo. Thank you to everyone who submitted nomination applications, we are always in awe of the top standards across the MENA region’s leisure and entertainment sector. As the jury begins their selection process, you can buy your ticket to the ultimate night to celebrate the visionaries and innovators redefining excellence across the MENA region. Don’t miss your chance to network with the industry’s “who’s who” and witness the crowning of this year’s winners across 33 categories.

Looking ahead, MENALAC EXPLORES offers industry professionals an immersive learning experience, combining real-world insights with exclusive access. Explore the heritage of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, with a guided tour and Saudi Experience Dinner at Takya Restaurant, while connecting with industry peers beyond the boardroom. This cultural ‘experience’ will be a day to remember.

Stay informed with the latest news, expert perspectives and industry updates through MENALAC’s channels, and play an active role in shaping the future of the sector.

We wish our community Ramadan Mubarak during this blessed period.

CELEBRATE THE BEST OF MENA LEISURE AND ATTRACTIONS

Secure your place at the MENALAC Awards Gala 2026, the MENA region’s flagship celebration of leisure and attractions excellence. Enjoy an elevated evening alongside the industry’s most influential leaders, a refined dining experience, and the presentation of the region’s most outstanding achievements across 33 award categories. With inspiring moments, live performances and unparalleled networking, this is far more than an awards night, it’s where the industry comes together to celebrate its best.

Tickets are now available. Be part of the celebration shaping the future of leisure and entertainment in the region:

A GOLF DAY DESIGNED FOR

INDUSTRY CONNECTIONS

Where meaningful conversations meet a touch of friendly competition, MENALAC Golf Day 2026 brings the leisure and attractions community together in a relaxed yet dynamic setting.

Whether you are there to practice your swing or simply there to connect, it is an opportunity to engage with decision-makers and peers beyond the boardroom. Secure your place and join the experience on 29 March 2026 at Abu Dhabi Golf Club

SUNSET NETWORKING IN A LAID BACK SETTING 

Ahead of IAAPA Middle East 2026, join leisure and entertainment professionals from 5:30pm on 29 March at the MENALAC Golf Day 19th Hole Sundowners Session. Catch up with old friends and meet new faces at The Falcon Clubhouse, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, where you will enjoy a lively networking atmosphere and a full buffet, with non-alcoholic and alcoholic packages available.

Don’t miss this chance to connect with the MENA leisure and attractions community.

UNLOCK INSIGHTS AT THE IAAPA SUMMIT - MENALAC SESSION

Get ready for the MENALAC Session at this year’s IAAPA Expo Summit, taking place from 31 March to 2 April. This session will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and experts to explore the latest trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the leisure and attractions sector in the MENA region. Stay tuned for full details on speakers, topics and how to join what promises to be an engaging and insight-packed experience.

It’s your chance to connect, learn, and be inspired, don’t miss it!

EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC -

MENALAC EXPLORES SAUDI ARABIA

Step inside one of Saudi Arabia’s leading attractions with MENALAC EXPLORES, MENALAC’s signature experiential learning programme. Designed for senior professionals in leisure, attractions and entertainment, this immersive experience offers exclusive access, real-world insights, and valuable networking opportunities beyond the boardroom.

Explore the rich culture and heritage of Diriyah, Riyadh with a guided tour, followed by a Saudi Experience Dinner.

PUT YOUR BRAND

AT THE HEART OF THE INDUSTRY

Sponsoring MENALAC’s 2026 events places your brand at the centre of the MENA leisure and entertainment sector. More than visibility, it offers meaningful access to decision-makers, strong brand credibility, and direct engagement with the region’s leading operators and developers.

As a sponsor, your brand becomes part of the experiences shaping the future of tourism and entertainment, building recognition, trust, and long-term value.

Explore sponsorship opportunities and tailored packages by contacting bhawna.balodhi@menalac.org

+971561064112

WHEN INSIGHT DEMANDS MORE THAN A SCREEN

Step away from the digital noise and immerse yourself in intelligence that matters. The MENA Leisure Report 2025 offers in-depth analysis, expert commentary, and clear insights into the trends shaping the region’s leisure and attractions sector. Packed with forward-looking forecasts, essential benchmarks, and a directory of key industry players, it’s an indispensable tool for strategic planning and informed decision-making.

Secure your print copy today and discover the lasting value of tangible insight in navigating MENA’s dynamic leisure landscape.

YOUR INSIDE ACCESS TO MENA's LEISURE PROJECTS

MENALAC has launched a new member-exclusive monthly newsletter, powered by BNC, offering early access to high-value leisure, entertainment, and mixed-use project intelligence across MENA. It helps members stay informed, identify opportunities, and make confident decisions.

Members receive free registration credits in the first phase of this collaboration. Sign up now to receive insights directly to your inbox.

Not a member yet? Join MENALAC to unlock this and other exclusive benefits:

NEW YEAR, NEW PERSPECTIVES.

Subscribe and tune in now!

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STAY IN THE FUN LOOP!  

Follow Us On Our Digital Platforms

MENALAC brings you all the excitement from across the region from the latest happenings to project announcements and growing trends. It’s your go-to digital community for all things leisure and entertainment. 

Follow and subscribe to all our digital platforms to keep track of the MENA leisure industry’s increasing pulse. 

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YOUR GATEWAY TO MENA’S LEISURE COMMUNITY

MENALAC unites the people and organisations driving the region’s leisure and attractions sector. Membership provides exclusive insights, valuable networking, and opportunities for meaningful collaboration with industry leaders. Through events and conferences, members can learn, connect, and expand their influence.

Take an active role in shaping the future of the industry. Join MENALAC today: