Dear readers, 

As the new year begins, MENALAC looks forward to another year of progress, collaboration, and momentum across the MENA leisure and attractions industry. We extend our best wishes to all members and partners for a productive and successful 2026.

Our MENALAC Events Calendar is taking shape, featuring conferences, webinars, and networking opportunities to inform, connect, and inspire. From knowledge-sharing to celebration, 2026 promises a year of engagement and collaboration.

MENALAC’s Health & Safety Committee meeting at Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark, hosted by Ryan Phillips, featured Chris Napier’s From Training to True Competence webinar, safety discussions, and ride demonstrations in a welcoming setting.

The Sustainability Committee meeting, hosted by Terra - The Sustainability Pavilion and Phillip Dunn, included Rosa Tahmaseb’s opening remarks and Sheena Khan’s Culture of Hope session on Jane Goodall’s four pillars for sustainable attractions, alongside behind-the-scenes tours highlighting sustainability in practice.

Nominations for the 8th MENALAC Awards are now open! With 33 categories, including five free-to-enter awards, celebrate excellence across attractions, operators, suppliers, and individuals shaping the MENA leisure industry. The gala takes place on 1 April 2026 in Abu Dhabi. Submit nominations by 20 February 2026 to be part of the region’s most prestigious night.

MENALAC Golf Day goes beyond the game, bringing decision-makers together to connect, forge partnerships, and strengthen industry bonds. Participants will enjoy friendly competition, conversation, sunset views, and partner prizes on Sunday 29 March 2026 at Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

Continuing the focus on connection, the Spring Mingle on 11 February 2026 at McGettigan’s DWTC invites attendees to unwind with drinks, laughter, and informal networking, a perfect chance to reconnect with colleagues and meet new industry contacts.



MENALAC is pleased to participate in DEAL 2026 (10–12 February), supporting the MENA leisure and attractions industry through connection, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration, providing insights to shape the sector’s future.

Stay connected with the latest industry news and updates through MENALAC’s channels.

A NIGHT TO UNWIND AND CONNECT

Join MENALAC for the Spring Mingle on 11 February 2026 - an informal evening designed for easy conversation and good company. Following the buzz of DEAL Show 2026, take a breather, enjoy a drink, and catch up with fellow leisure professionals in a relaxed setting at McGettigan’s DWTC.

It’s a chance to slow the pace, share a few laughs, and enjoy the social side of the industry.



Save the date and

MEET MENALAC AT DEAL 2026 | Booth Z2-E06

MENALAC will be exhibiting at DEAL 2026 from 10–12 February, bringing the MENA leisure and attractions community together through knowledge-sharing, collaboration, and industry insight.

Visit us at Booth Z2-E06 to connect with our team, explore opportunities, and discover how MENALAC continues to support the future of the sector.

WHERE CONNECTIONS TAKE THE LEAD!

MENALAC’s Golf Day returns to Abu Dhabi on 29 March 2026, offering a relaxed setting where industry conversations extend well beyond the office. Set against the fairway, the day is designed to encourage genuine interaction, fresh perspectives, and lasting relationships.

The experience continues at the 19th Hole Sundowner at the Falcon Club, open to both golfers and non-golfers, with an evening of networking accompanied by buffet dining and refreshments.



A day centred on connection, collaboration, and community 

MENALAC AWARDS 2026 -

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

Nominations are open for the 8th MENALAC Awards Gala on 1 April 2026 in Abu Dhabi, alongside the inaugural IAAPA Middle East Expo.

With 33 categories, including 5 free-to-enter options, the Awards celebrate excellence across the leisure and attractions industry, from innovation and safety to design and operations.

SUBMIT your entry by 20 February 2026:

MENALAC EXPLORES - DISCOVER DIRIYAH, CONNECT WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS

MENALAC EXPLORES takes learning beyond the boardroom through immersive experiences at leading leisure destinations. Designed for senior professionals, it offers exclusive access, practical insights, and valuable peer connections.



On 18 May 2026 in Diriyah, Riyadh, join a guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site, followed by an authentic Saudi dinner at Takya Restaurant with live music. Held on the eve of the SEA Show, the evening blends heritage, insight, and relaxed networking.

TURNING SAFETY KNOWLEDGE INTO REAL-WORLD COMPETENCE

Hosted at Grand Hyatt Dubai Waterpark by Ryan Phillips, the MENALAC Health & Safety Committee Meeting delivered a dynamic day of insight and exchange. Highlights included Chris Napier’s From Training to True Competence webinar, practical safety discussions, live ride demonstrations, and the FlowRider® Triple experience. Engaging conversations and warm hospitality rounded off a highly impactful gathering.

DESIGNING ATTRACTIONS WITH PURPOSE AND IMPACT

The MENALAC Sustainability Committee Meeting, hosted at Terra - The Sustainability Pavilion by Phillip Dunn, brought sustainability into sharp focus. With an opening by Rosa Tahmaseb and an inspiring Culture of Hope session from Sheena Khan, the meeting explored how Jane Goodall’s four pillars can shape future-ready attractions. Insightful discussions and behind-the-scenes tours reinforced sustainability as both a responsibility and an opportunity.

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 info@menalac.org.

WHEN INSIGHT DESERVES MORE THAN A SCREEN

Take a break from the constant digital buzz and focus on intelligence that truly counts. The MENA Leisure Report 2025 delivers detailed analysis, market insight, and expert viewpoints on the trends influencing the region’s leisure and attractions sector. With forward-looking forecasts, key benchmarks, and a directory of leading industry players, it serves as a vital resource for strategic planning and confident decision-making.

Order your print copy today and experience the enduring value of print in understanding MENA’s evolving 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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YOUR CONNECTION TO

MENA’S LEISURE COMMUNITY

MENALAC brings together the individuals and organisations shaping MENA’s leisure and attractions sector. Membership offers access to exclusive insight, valuable networking opportunities, and meaningful collaboration with the region’s industry leaders. Through events and conferences, members gain the platform to learn, connect, and strengthen their influence.

Be more than a participant and play a role in shaping the industry’s future.

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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