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MICE and destination events show returns in September for milestone 10th edition
The 10th edition of the Middle East’s leading MICE and destination events trade show The Experiential Planner Expo (EPEX) will be held in Dubai from 4-5 September 2025.
EPEX 2025, supported by Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism as the Host Destination Partner, is the region’s leading B2B platform, connecting the world’s top event suppliers with high-value buyers from India, the Middle East, the UK and Russia/CIS.
Through a series of curated sessions, workshops and networking events, EPEX 2025 provides a platform for industry professionals to gain valuable insights, expand their networks and elevate their expertise.
This milestone year will attract more than 400 qualified MICE buyers and social event planners from 17 countries, alongside 115 global exhibitors representing tourism, hospitality, venues, F&B and event services.
With a focus on innovation, excellence, and international collaboration, EPEX 2025 aims to showcase cutting-edge trends, forge strategic partnerships and drive business growth for all participants.
“As DBE [Dubai Business Events], our collaboration with EPEX reflects Dubai’s ongoing commitment to shaping the global business events industry,” said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).
“EPEX provides a valuable opportunity for us to connect with and engage with trusted stakeholders, partners, qualified buyers, service providers and key decision-makers from around the world, showcasing Dubai’s strengths as a host city and the incredible variety of services, venues, and experiences available here.”
In 2025, EPEX will partner with leading global associations including the Society for Incentive Travel Excellence (SITE) and the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), each delivering impactful leadership programming.
Industry leaders and strategic sessions
Kicking off the Leadership Forum, the SITE Arabia Power Breakfast will feature top UAE incentive travel CEOs and explore the region’s growing appeal for high-performance programmes.
Speakers will include Karina Lance, Associate Vice President of Dubai Business Events; Moammer Mahmoud, Tourism & MICE Sector Head at DCT Abu Dhabi; and Socorro Morake, Senior Manager – MICE, RAKTDA.
The ICCA Session, entitled The Transformative Power of Association Congresses, will examine how knowledge exchange, research advancement and policy shaping through international congresses create lasting legacies for host destinations.
Other highlights include Dubai Briefing: Strategy & Vision, hosted by DBE and offering a forward-looking perspective on the city’s positioning in the global events marketplace.
In the Spotlight will feature a candid leadership conversation with Sandeep Walia, COO – Middle East, Marriott International.
The exhibition floor will showcase pavilions from Dubai – Department of Economy and Tourism, DCT Abu Dhabi, Oman Convention Bureau and global hospitality leaders such as IHG Hotels & Resorts, Minor Hotels and Kempinski.
For more information, visit experientialplanner.com