Middle East Event Show Returns to Dubai World Trade Centre

According to information compiled by FEW.ae editor, the 16th Middle East Event Show 2025 (MEES) is set to light up Dubai on June 17–18, 2025, with its prestigious awards gala following on June 19. The event brings together industry professionals, cutting-edge exhibitors, and visionaries shaping the global MICE and live events landscape.

Venue Details

The MEES exhibition will occupy Sheikh Maktoum Hall at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). This expansive venue is a premier trade‑show facility well‑equipped for large‑scale events. DWTC’s Sheikh Maktoum Hall provides robust infrastructure: high‑capacity electrical grid, advanced AV and lighting systems tailored for exhibitions, and ceiling-mounted rigging points for creative booth designs. 

For the awards ceremony on June 19, delegates will move to the Madinat Arena at Madinat Jumeirah—a scenic waterfront venue known for its blend of traditional Arabian architecture and modern event technology.

Event Timing & Transportation

The exhibition is open from 11 AM to 8 PM on both days. Badge collection opens at 10:30 AM daily. 

DWTC is easily reachable:

• Metro: Dubai Metro’s Red Line stops at “World Trade Centre” station, just steps from Sheikh Maktoum Hall.
• Taxi/Ride-Hailing: Designated entrance at the Convention Centre; Careem, Uber, and RTA taxis frequent the area.
• Driving/Parking: Exhibition St. Parking offers MEES discounted rates—AED 42 for the first 6 hours, AED 10 per extra hour. Validation at exit required.

International attendees benefit from special airfare rates via Emirates, the official airline partner, and access to discounted nearby hotels. 

Weather Outlook

Dubai’s mid‑June climate is typically scorching. Daytime temperatures average around 41–43 °C, with extremely low humidity at midday. Evening offers marginal relief down to 30–32 °C, but outdoor exposure remains intense. Organizers recommend carrying water, wearing light clothing, and taking metro or air-conditioned transport between venues.

Technical Setup & Features

Sheikh Maktoum Hall is outfitted with:

• Overhead power lines supplying high-amp circuits ideal for lighting, LED screens, and interactive displays.
• Truss and rigging points capable of supporting heavy equipment, audio systems, and suspended signage.
• High-speed fiber internet and Wi‑Fi coverage across the floorplate.
• On-site AV support teams to handle content routing, stage management, and presentations.

Madinat Arena provides:

• Modular stage setups (theatrical, banquet, conference).
• A tiered hall capacity of several thousand, suitable for gala dinners and award productions.
• In-house lighting rigs, mixing desks, and audio reinforcement systems.

Organiser & Event Programme

MEES is organised by Informa Connect Middle East Limited, the Dubai division of the multinational events group Informa PLC. Now in its 16th edition, the show has grown to attract approximately 5,000 industry professionals, over 60 free expert sessions, and more than 100 exhibitors.

Highlights include:

• Seminars and workshops led by over 70 international and regional speakers, covering topics like AI, VR, sustainability, data‑driven personalisation, smart‑city collaboration, and diversity in events—including speaker Naomi D’Souza among others.
• Technological showcase featuring event‑tech innovators offering AV, staging, event‑logistics, décor, lighting, and entertainment solutions.
• Middle East Event Awards ceremony (June 19) honouring excellence across 20+ categories—from best production, sustainability, and technology, to outstanding team and live‑experience activations. 

Organisers & Key Personnel

The event is spearheaded by Informa Connect Middle East, leveraging its extensive regional network. DWTC provides venue coordination and logistical support. Awards judging panels include industry veterans from event production, tourism bodies, creative agencies, and sustainability consultants.

Speakers roster includes:

• Romone McCrae (Sales Director, International Confex)
• Tyler Stellman (MDLBEAST)
• Iyad Rasbey (Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority)
• Karina Lance (Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism)
• Azza Hegazi (Snap Inc. MENA)
• Many others from leading event‑tech and cultural organisations.

Networking & Industry Impact

According to organisers, previous MEES editions welcomed over 5,000 attendees, featured 70+ sessions, and garnered strong reviews for exhibitor quality and networking value. 

Takeaway

The 2025 Middle East Event Show cements Dubai’s position as a pivotal hub for MICE and live entertainment in the Gulf. With its blend of expert knowledge, innovative technologies, and celebratory awards, MEES offers a compelling platform for event professionals to learn, connect, and drive the industry forward. According to information compiled by FEW.ae editor, this year’s edition promises enhanced infrastructure, curated experiences, and heightened opportunity for growth.