UFI, The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry, is counting down to the 93rd UFI Global Congress, taking place 2-5 November 2026 in the Kingdom of Bahrain, and hosted by Exhibition World Bahrain and the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority.
The 93rd UFI Global Congress will examine how the industry is preparing for what comes next. Under the theme “Stronger Connections, Smarter Futures”, this year’s programme will explore how organisations are maintaining momentum, making confident decisions and identifying new opportunities in an increasingly complex and unpredictable environment.
Sara Ahmed Buhejji, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and Chairperson of Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), comments: “Hosting the 93rd UFI Global Congress is significant for EWB, bringing the global exhibition community together in the Kingdom for the first time.
With just one month to go, we are looking forward to welcoming industry leaders from around the world for a programme that will explore the trends, opportunities, and ideas shaping the future of our industry.
Beyond the discussions, we invite delegates to experience Bahrain’s distinctive hospitality, connectivity, and growing business-events ecosystem, and to build impactful connections that extend well beyond the Congress.”
Chris Skeith OBE, UFI CEO & Managing Director, adds: “‘Stronger Connections, Smarter Futures’ encompasses exactly what the UFI Global Congress is all about.
In a rapidly changing and unpredictable world, the value of coming together, sharing perspectives, and finding clarity for what lies ahead has never been stronger.
We are proud to bring this year’s edition to the Kingdom of Bahrain at a time when solidarity matters deeply. Having recently visited the Kingdom and many of the venues we will use during the Congress, and having experienced firsthand the excitement and enthusiasm of our hosts, I have every confidence this will be an exceptional edition.”
Keynote speaker and main stage sessions
The main stage programme will bring together industry leaders and voices from beyond the sector to explore opportunities and challenges shaping the future of the exhibition industry.
Sessions will look at rebuilding confidence and accelerating growth, the evolving business of global events, the communities our industry creates, the global economic outlook and the role of technology, data and AI. Speakers will share perspectives on how organisations are responding to uncertainty, finding new opportunities and creating greater value through live experiences.
Lord Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive of Informa
A key highlight will be the Power of Live, a keynote address from Lord Stephen A. Carter, Group Chief Executive of Informa. Drawing on his experience leading one of the world’s major B2B live events businesses, Lord Carter will explore the growing value of live, how events contribute to international markets and cities, and how data and AI are creating new opportunities for the industry and its customers. This is a rare opportunity to hear Lord Carter address the industry in this way.
Hugh Jones, CEO of RX, will close day one with a look at how exhibitions are evolving to create greater value for participants. Drawing on RX’s experience across its global portfolio, Hugh will explore how organisers can design shows to help people do business more effectively while creating the meaningful connections and experiences that make live events valuable.
Medal of Honour ceremony
Each year, the UFI Medal of Honour recognises individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the global exhibition industry and to the UFI community.
Revived in 2024, the ceremony returns as part of the 93rd UFI Global Congress, celebrating the vision, leadership, and dedication that continue to shape the future of our industry.
Change of UFI Leadership
The final day of the 93rd UFI Global Congress will mark a significant moment for UFI’s leadership, as Wolfram Diener (President and CEO of Messe Düsseldorf Group) assumes the role of UFI President. He will succeed Panittha Buri (Vice Chairperson of Bhiraj Buri Group), who transitions to the role of Outgoing President.
Arriving in Bahrain
The Kingdom of Bahrain is a well-connected and easily accessible destination, with direct and single-connection flights available from major hubs across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Discounts are available from Gulf Air, which has direct flights from key hubs including Shanghai and London.
Bahrain International Airport is a short drive from Exhibition World Bahrain and from the city’s principal hotel districts, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience from arrival to the Congress venue.
Register Now
UFI invites the 50,000+ industry professionals across its member companies to attend this flagship event, which brings together the world’s leading exhibition organisers, venues, and service providers.
For more information, please visit: www.uficongress.org.
