At IMEX Frankfurt, the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) announced a new two-year strategic partnership with the International Federation of Exhibition and Event Services (IFES), and made significant strides in growth in the Middle East.
By aligning with IFES, ICCA said it strengthens its connection with the global events supply chain, bringing together two influential communities committed to excellence.
ICCA’s CEO, Dr Senthil Gopinath (pictured with IFES President, Jörg Zeissig), said the IFES partnership reflects ICCA’s dedication to uniting all facets of the global events industry.
“Together, we’re not only expanding our reach, we’re also creating new opportunities for learning, innovation, and sustainable growth that will benefit our entire community,” he said.
In the Middle East, ICCA announced three initiatives including hosting the ICCA Middle East Summit 2026 in Jordan, Association Day Oman in December 2025 in collaboration with the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Oman Convention Bureau, and the ICCAUni Forum.
The ICCA Middle East Summit 2026 will bring together decision-makers and professionals for high-level dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaboration.
Association Day Oman will host 10 international associations for a curated, three-day experience designed to foster connection between global association leaders and Omani stakeholders.
The ICCAUni Forum will aim to expand Oman’s share of the global business events market through nurturing local talent.
In news closer to home, Wellington will host the ICCA Business Workshop International Destination Marketing Sector, from February 12 to 14, 2026.
Of the announcement, Business Events Wellington manager, Irette Ferreira, said this will be the first time this globally recognised event will be held in New Zealand.
“…we bid for it and were thrilled when ICCA awarded it to us,” she said.