Sharjah: Expo Centre Sharjah marked the 11th edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED) with a ceremony that highlighted significant achievements in the first half of 2026.
According to Emirates News Agency, the ceremony, themed 'Exhibitions drive opportunities', showcased the Centre's role as a leading venue for exhibitions and conferences, further bolstering Sharjah's status as a top global destination for business tourism and economic events. The event was graced by Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, along with key figures from the Arab Union for International Exhibitions and Conferences (AUIEC), department heads, executive managers, and employees.
In the first half of 2026, Expo Centre Sharjah attracted more than 500,000 visitors through over 30 sector-focused events, featuring around 1,900 exhibitors from 45 countries. These events are part of an annual calendar that includes 95 exhibitions across various sectors, such as manufacturing, real estate, jewellery, agriculture, retail, and entrepreneurship. Notable events included SteelFab 2026, ACRES 2026, Jewels of Emirates Show, Ramadan Nights, and Al Dhaid Agriculture Exhibition.
Saif Mohammed Al Midfa emphasized the importance of Global Exhibitions Day as a platform to highlight the industry's contribution to economic growth and partnership expansion. He noted that the Centre's achievements in H1 2026 underscore its role in reinforcing Sharjah's position as a regional and international hub for exhibitions and conferences.
Al Midfa attributed these accomplishments to a strategic vision focused on operational excellence and efficiency, aligning with the business community's needs and Sharjah's competitiveness goals. He highlighted the UAE's ranking as first in the Middle East and 31st globally in the 2025 Country and City Rankings Report by the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA), reflecting the strength of the nation's MICE infrastructure.
Expo Centre Sharjah also enhanced its global engagement by expanding partnerships with international organisations and stakeholders. It hosted numerous delegations and held bilateral meetings with entities like the UK-based IMEX Group and Germany's Messe Essen, focusing on cooperation opportunities and attracting international events to Sharjah.
Looking ahead, the Centre plans to host a series of specialised exhibitions in the second half of 2026. These include the 57th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show and the Emirates Perfumes and Oud Exhibition, among others. Expo Centre Sharjah remains committed to supporting commercial activity and consumer engagement across the emirate through a diverse range of exhibitions and events.