Abu Dhabi has rapidly transformed itself into one of the leading venues for cultural and business exhibitions, attracting a huge swathe of visitors from all over the world.

Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation ( Visit Site )

The Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation is situated in the middle of downtown Abu Dhabi, off Khalifa Street and next to the White Fort, also known as the Qasr al-Hosn Palace. Founded in 1981 as the centre of art and learning in Abu Dhabi, it is operated by the Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. The centre exhibits traditional Islamic design with arched columns, elegant gardens and sophisticated courtyards. It offers a wide range of events including lectures, concerts, movies, art exhibits and workshops. The cultural foundation encompasses the National Archives, the National Library and the Institute of Culture and Art.

Important Exhibitions held in Abu Dhabi

The International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) ( Visit Site )

IDEX, which takes place biennially at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), is the lone tri-service defense exhibition and conference in the MENA region. A large number of local and international exhibitors demonstrate a broad range of systems, equipment and services, complimented by the Gulf Defense Conference which delivers great insight into defense solutions. The IDEX was first launched around the year 2000 and since then has become the largest showcase for land, air and sea military defenses.

Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference (ADIPEC)
( Visit Site )

ADIPEC is the largest oil and gas event in the Middle East held annually, with an objective to gather international and national oil producers, major international services and trading companies and technology providers under one roof. The event features the most up to date services, products and developments taking place in the oil and gas industry across the globe. The aim of this exhibition is to minimise the communication barriers between international oil and gas communities and represent ideas in a common way that everyone understands. Conference groups are also set up in order to share information about the latest technological advancements in the industry. Representatives from major energy companies such as BP, Gasco and Shell usually attend this event. Since its inception in 1986, the event has been held at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi’s premier exhibition venue.

The Gulf Incentive, Business Travel and Meetings exhibition (GIBTM) ( Visit Site )

GIBTM is an annual event held over a three-day period, since 2007, to benefit those from the tourism, travel and hospitality business. Communities from the Gulf region and the Middle Eastern area gather to identify business opportunities, keep up-to-date with industry trends, improve relationships and make new contacts in an informative environment. This is the only event of its sort in the Gulf region and the meetings are led by a specialist team of industry professionals who are expert in their fields.