ADNEC Group announces packed second half of 2026 with 297 events

ADNEC Group, a Modon company, is set for a record-breaking second half of 2026 across its UAE-based venues. Together, its two venues will host 297 events, underscoring the Group’s role in delivering world-class event experiences across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, catering to both international audiences and local communities alike.

ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi is preparing for one of its most expansive event seasons yet, with a packed calendar reflecting the emirate’s continued growth as a leading destination for business and leisure tourism, knowledge exchange, and global gatherings. 21% of the exhibitions and four international associations will be taking place for the first time in the Middle East, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for innovation, collaboration, and global connectivity.

This wide variety of events span key sectors including energy, artificial intelligence, defence, healthcare, education, food security, finance, fashion, marine lifestyle, health and wellness and sustainability, reinforcing the venue’s reputation as a hub for large-scale, world-class events of all kinds.

ADNEC Centre Al Ain, by contrast, has cemented its position as a community-focused venue, hosting events that bring the city together through cultural exhibitions, indoor sporting events, celebrations of academic achievement, and entertainment. The second half of 2026 will see a series of exhibitions, conferences, corporate meetings, graduations and public events, as the centre continues to grow as a venue for a wide range of gatherings in the region.

Humaid Matar Al Dhaheri, Group CEO of ADNEC Group, said: “The upcoming event season at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi and ADNEC Centre Al Ain reflects the resilience of the events industry and the continued international confidence in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi as a leading hub for global gatherings. Our venues remain the region’s premier destinations for hosting and organising world-class events, bringing together industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, investors, and communities from around the world.

Khalifa Al Qubaisi, Chief Commercial Officer of ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, said: “The second half of 2026 will showcase the strength, diversity, and scale of the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi and ADNEC Centre Al Ain event calendars. From major global congresses and flagship exhibitions to cultural festivals, specialist industry forums, and community-focused events, our venue continues to provide a platform that supports business growth, knowledge exchange, and Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading international events destination.” July 2026 Throughout July and August, Abu Dhabi Summer Sports 2026 took place at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, which provided the community of Abu Dhabi the opportunity to enjoy the Middle East and North Africa’s largest indoor sporting experiences. The Money Expo was also held for the first time at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from 8 to 9 July, providing a platform for financial professionals, institutions, and investors to explore the latest trends in banking, investment, trading, and fintech.

At the ADNEC Centre Al Ain, several school graduations were held celebrating academic achievements from institutions across the UAE. Additionally, the fourth edition of Al Ain Summer Sports ran through July until 19 August, providing the city of Al Ain with the ideal sporting destination where health, fitness, community, and family come together for an unforgettable summer experience.

August 2026 August featured the start of the 23rd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (ADIHEX), one of the region’s largest events dedicated to culture, heritage, outdoor pursuits, hunting, equestrianism, and traditional sports. ADIHEX 2026 took place from 28 August until 6 September and was the largest in the event’s history, bringing together exhibitors, enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across the UAE, the region, and beyond.

September 2026 September marks a significant ramp-up in activity at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. The month opens with the fan-favourite Middle East Film and Comic Con, taking place from 11 to 13 September. The event will unite thousands of visitors from across the Middle East and beyond to celebrate pop culture, films, television, gaming, comics, collectibles, and entertainment.

The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair returns from 13 to 18 September, celebrating literature, publishing, creativity, and intellectual exchange on a regional and global scale. As Abu Dhabi’s dedicated real estate event targeting investors and consumers, IREIS will provide a platform for property developers, investors, homebuyers, and real estate professionals.

The Ajban Defence Industry & Technology Exhibition will take place from 21 to 22 September, addressing supply chain and manufacturing challenges across the defence industry and highlighting opportunities for local and regional defence capabilities.

The Education Interface will take place from 22 to 23 September, focusing on academic disciplines and educational pathways aligned with the evolving demands of Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s future labour market. Also in September, Teeb Al Hazm, one of the region’s most carefully curated perfume exhibitions, will take place from 25 September to 5 October, bringing together leading fragrance houses, perfumers, retailers, and enthusiasts. Taking place for the first time in the region, the 15th United Nations Congress on Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice, hosted by the Government of the United Arab Emirates, will be held from 26 September to 1 October.