UAE MEETINGS, INCENTIVES, CONFERENCES AND EXHIBITIONS (MICE) MARKET SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2023 - 2030)

Seasonality is among the key factors restraining the growth of the UAE MICE market. The summer months from May to September witness extreme heat and humidity which makes it difficult to organize outdoor activities and events. The temperature often crosses 45 degrees Celsius with humidity being over 80% during peak summer, making it unbearable for tourists and delegates to engage in prolonged outdoor sessions or activities. This leads to a significantly low season for the local MICE industry during summer months as hotels, venues, and event organizers face event cancellations.  Moreover, Ramadan which is a holy month for Muslims also impacts the MICE business negatively. During Ramadan, Muslims all over the world fast from dawn to dusk and devote their time for prayers and spiritual activities. Many expat residents in UAE comprising of Muslims observe fasting and prayers during Ramadan. This further discourages hosting of conferences, exhibitions, and incentive trips as delegates and participants might find it difficult to attend long day time sessions while fasting. Social activities and functions also take a backseat during Ramadan. This leads to another low season for the UAE MICE industry during the Ramadan month which falls around April or May.

 Opportunity: Developing new niche segments

Developing niche segments could provide significant opportunities for the UAE MICE market going forward. As the tourism and events industry rebounds post pandemic, focusing on more specialized offerings may help boost growth. Some emerging niche areas that show promise include medical tourism meetings and religious conferences.  The UAE has been investing heavily in its healthcare infrastructure. It already hosts several major medical conferences but there remains room to expand. Partnering with prominent research hospitals and healthcare providers to organize specialized symposiums and workshops could attract more doctors, nurses, and medical professionals to the country.