Sharjah hosts inaugural 2025 WTCA Middle East Members Conference
The Emirate of Sharjah hosted the inaugural 2025 World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Middle East Members Conference, organised by Expo Centre Sharjah, bringing together leaders and representatives from the region's growing number of 18 World Trade Center businesses.
The Conference aimed to strengthen strategic cooperation, exchange expertise and best practices, and discuss ways to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies to optimize WTCA's operations and elevate its performance. Discussions also focused on empowering WTCA Members to serve as catalysts for business growth, innovation, and cross-border partnerships.
Held at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI)'s headquarters, the gathering was attended by Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah and Member of WTCA's Conferences and Exhibitions Advisory Council; and Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah), along with several officials from the Sharjah Chamber and Expo Centre Sharjah.
The Conference agenda addressed core themes, including strategies to strengthen international trade through collaborative efforts and complementary roles among WTCA Members.
Participants highlighted the importance of accelerating digital transformation in the exhibitions sector, establishing a unified platform for data and expertise sharing, and activating networking frameworks among World Trade Centers in the Middle East to enhance competitiveness, attract investments, and foster innovation.
Saif Mohammed Al Midfa stated that hosting the inaugural WTCA Middle East Members Conference reflects Sharjah's leading position in the global exhibitions and conferences industry.
He noted that Expo Centre Sharjah is committed to enhancing regional and international cooperation to advance the exhibitions sector, optimize its operational efficiency, drive its sustainable development, and reinforce its essential role in supporting various economic sectors.
During the conference, Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh presented a comprehensive overview of Sharjah's promising investment opportunities and the competitive advantages it offers to foreign investors.
He highlighted the emirate's world-class infrastructure with its specialized free zones and integrated transport systems. He also pointed to Sharjah's pro-investment regulatory framework designed to support business scalability, ensure operational ease, and streamline the establishment of new ventures.
Discussions during the Conference underscored the strategic importance of strengthening cooperation among WTCA Middle East Members. Speakers stressed the role of coordinated efforts in promoting international trade and supporting the region's economic development goals.
Ahmed Tibaoui, General Manager and CEO of WTC Algiers, noted that regional integration is key to increasing the operational effectiveness of the exhibitions industry and reinforcing its contribution to long-term sustainable growth.
For her part, Crystal Edn, WTCA Executive Director, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining WTCA's global initiatives and strategic programs aimed at supporting World Trade Centers and expanding their contribution to the global economy.
Staff Reporter, Gulf Today
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Sharjah 24
4 days ago
- Sharjah 24
ECS marks Global Exhibitions Day
The celebration reflected the Centre's strong commitment to supporting economic and cultural progress in Sharjah and the UAE. It also highlighted the vital role of the exhibition industry in driving sustainable development and creating new pathways for growth and prosperity. The ceremony was attended by Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI and Expo Centre Sharjah, and Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, alongside the Centre's department heads, managers, and staff. The commemorative event featured a video presentation highlighting Expo Sharjah's journey of achievements and milestones since its establishment in 1977 as the region's first-ever exhibition centre, marking Sharjah's path toward global leadership and excellence. Thanks to the wise guidance and unwavering support of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Expo Centre Sharjah was relocated in 2002 to its current state-of-the-art facility, spanning 128,000 square metres. Today, Expo Sharjah stands as a premier venue in the Middle East, with an annual calendar featuring over 80 exhibitions and events and attracting around 3 million visitors and more than 7,000 companies and brands from nearly 60 countries, establishing the emirate as a leading destination for major global events. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais said that celebrating the Global Exhibitions Day underscores the strategic significance of the exhibition sector in advancing Sharjah's comprehensive and sustainable development goals. He noted that strengthening the exhibition industry remains a top priority for the Sharjah Chamber, as it serves as a key growth driver, positively influencing related sectors such as tourism. In 2024, the emirate recorded 1.6 million hotel guests, reflecting an 11% increase compared to 2023. For his part, Saif Mohammed Al Midfa remarked that Global Exhibitions Day coincides with a period of continued growth and diversification at Expo Centre Sharjah. In 2024, the Centre welcomed close to 3 million visitors, with an expanded portfolio of sector-specific events. In the first half of 2025, performance indicators remained strong, with new exhibitors representing nearly 20% of total participation, an achievement that reinforces the Centre's position as a globally competitive hub for international trade shows and exhibitions. Al Midfa also noted that the exhibitions sector plays a vital role in driving economic activity. According to the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), the exhibitions sector made a substantial economic impact in 2024, recording USD 398.2 billion in total spending, including USD 162.3 billion in direct expenditures. The sector also contributed USD 233.1 billion to global GDP, as reported by UFI. During the first half of 2025, Expo Sharjah, along with its affiliate centres in Khorfakkan and Al Dhaid, delivered a robust performance and significant milestones. Expo Centre Sharjah's 2025 events calendar commenced with the 'SteelFab' exhibition, attracting nearly 300 companies from 35 countries. The event facilitated the signing of significant trade agreements, further reinforcing Sharjah's position as a key industrial hub. The agenda also included the Sharjah Real Estate Exhibition "ACRES 2025', which brought together over 110 exhibitors and achieved remarkable success, with real estate transactions exceeding AED 4.3 billion and a footfall of more than 15,000 visitors. In January and February 2025, the Jewels of Emirates Show stood out with the participation of over 500 brands and elite designers. The momentum continued with "Ramadan Nights" exhibition that took place in March and Hive Furniture Show in May. The 55th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show, held across May and June, set new attendance records with over 87,000 visitors, 500 exhibitors, and 1,800 designers and industry experts, marking first-time participation from Russia, Mexico, Tanzania, and Egypt. In 2024, Expo Centre Sharjah strengthened its international footprint and its broad network of partnerships by signing approximately 12 global cooperation agreements and receiving numerous high-level foreign delegations. The Centre also continues to invest in the growth of the exhibitions sector, as demonstrated by its hosting of the inaugural 2025 World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Middle East Members Conference, bringing together leaders and representatives from the region's growing number of 18 World Trade Center businesses. Expo Centre Sharjah is set to deliver a dynamic calendar of specialised exhibitions in the second half of 2025. Key upcoming events include debut editions of the Middle East Cosmetics Show, the Evolve Future Mobility Show, and Dairy Tech Middle East, exhibition reflecting the Centre's focus on sectoral diversification and innovation. Al Owais and Al Midfa concluded the ceremony by honouring a group of distinguished employees and team members who played a vital role in the Centre's accomplishments in recent years. The recognition highlighted their dedication and efforts in enhancing event performance and contributing to the development of the exhibition sector.
Gulf Today
4 days ago
- Gulf Today
Expo Centre marks Global Exhibitions day, celebrating 48 years of excellence
Staff Reporter, Gulf Today Expo Centre Sharjah organised a ceremony to commemorate the 10th annual Global Exhibitions Day (GED) that took place on Wednesday, under the theme 'Exhibitions Unleash Potential'. The celebration reflected the Centre's strong commitment to supporting economic and cultural progress in Sharjah and the UAE. It also highlighted the vital role of the exhibition industry in driving sustainable development and creating new pathways for growth and prosperity. The ceremony was attended by Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI and Expo Centre Sharjah, and Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, alongside the Centre's department heads, managers, and staff. The commemorative event featured a video presentation highlighting Expo Sharjah's journey of achievements and milestones since its establishment in 1977 as the region's first-ever exhibition centre, marking Sharjah's path toward global leadership and excellence. Thanks to the wise guidance and unwavering support of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, Expo Centre Sharjah was relocated in 2002 to its current state-of-the-art facility, spanning 128,000 square metres. Today, Expo Sharjah stands as a premier venue in the Middle East, with an annual calendar featuring over 80 exhibitions and events and attracting around 3 million visitors and more than 7,000 companies and brands from nearly 60 countries, establishing the emirate as a leading destination for major global events. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais said that celebrating the Global Exhibitions Day underscores the strategic significance of the exhibition sector in advancing Sharjah's comprehensive and sustainable development goals. He noted that strengthening the exhibition industry remains a top priority for the Sharjah Chamber, as it serves as a key growth driver, positively influencing related sectors such as tourism. In 2024, the emirate recorded 1.6 million hotel guests, reflecting an 11% increase compared to 2023. For his part, Saif Mohammed Al Midfa remarked that Global Exhibitions Day coincides with a period of continued growth and diversification at Expo Centre Sharjah. In 2024, the Centre welcomed close to 3 million visitors, with an expanded portfolio of sector-specific events. In the first half of 2025, performance indicators remained strong, with new exhibitors representing nearly 20% of total participation, an achievement that reinforces the Centre's position as a globally competitive hub for international trade shows and exhibitions. Al Midfa also noted that the exhibitions sector plays a vital role in driving economic activity. According to the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI), the exhibitions sector made a substantial economic impact in 2024, recording $398.2 billion in total spending, including $162.3 billion in direct expenditures. The sector also contributed $ 233.1 billion to global GDP, as reported by UFI. During the first half of 2025, Expo Sharjah, along with its affiliate centres in Khorfakkan and Al Dhaid, delivered a robust performance and significant milestones. Expo Centre Sharjah's 2025 events calendar commenced with the 'SteelFab' exhibition, attracting nearly 300 companies from 35 countries. The event facilitated the signing of significant trade agreements, further reinforcing Sharjah's position as a key industrial hub. The agenda also included the Sharjah Real Estate Exhibition 'ACRES 2025', which brought together over 110 exhibitors and achieved remarkable success, with real estate transactions exceeding Dhs 4.3 billion and a footfall of more than 15,000 visitors. In January and February 2025, the Jewels of Emirates Show stood out with the participation of over 500 brands and elite designers. The momentum continued with 'Ramadan Nights' exhibition that took place in March and Hive Furniture Show in May. The 55th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show, held across May and June, set new attendance records with over 87,000 visitors, 500 exhibitors, and 1,800 designers and industry experts, marking first-time participation from Russia, Mexico, Tanzania, and Egypt. In 2024, Expo Centre Sharjah strengthened its international footprint and its broad network of partnerships by signing approximately 12 global cooperation agreements and receiving numerous high-level foreign delegations. The Centre also continues to invest in the growth of the exhibitions sector, as demonstrated by its hosting of the inaugural 2025 World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Middle East Members Conference, bringing together leaders and representatives from the region's growing number of 18 World Trade centre businesses. Expo Centre Sharjah is set to deliver a dynamic calendar of specialised exhibitions in the second half of 2025. Key upcoming events include debut editions of the Middle East Cosmetics Show, the Evolve Future Mobility Show, and Dairy Tech Middle East, exhibition reflecting the Centre's focus on sectoral diversification and innovation. Al Owais and Al Midfa concluded the ceremony by honouring a group of distinguished employees and team members who played a vital role in the Centre's accomplishments in recent years. The recognition highlighted their dedication and efforts in enhancing event performance and contributing to the development of the exhibition sector.
Sharjah 24
6 days ago
- Sharjah 24
55th Watch and Jewellery ME Show concludes with 87000 visitors
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the five-day exhibition attracted more than 87,000 visitors, marking 9 percent increase compared to the previous edition. This reinforces the exhibition's status as one of the largest and most significant gold and jewellery trade exhibitions in the UAE and the region. The 55th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show featured the participation of over 500 local and international exhibitors, representing high-end brands in gold, diamonds, and luxury watches, in addition to 1,800 high-profile designers, manufacturers, and industry professionals. Occupying an expansive 30,000 square metres, the exhibition marked the debut participation of several international participants from Russia, Mexico, Tanzania, and Egypt. It also saw the presence of an elite group of leading jewellery and watchmakers from both local and global markets. Key exhibiting countries include the UAE, India, Italy, the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, China, Japan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Lebanon. The 55th edition presented a set of exclusive jewellery pieces and culturally inspired international designs officially recognised by Guinness World Records. Key highlights included the unveiling of the world's longest diamond necklace. The masterpiece spans 108 meters and is adorned with more than 600 lab-grown diamonds, meticulously crafted in 18-karat rose gold. The exhibition also unveiled the 'Union Frame,' which has entered the Guinness World Records as the world's largest gold frame. Another standout attraction was a fully gold-plated car introduced by Al Romaizan Gold and Jewellery. Nicknamed 'Gold-Zilla' for its looks and powerful performance, the extraordinarily rare piece is valued at nearly 3.67 million dirhams, offering a unique blend of mechanical power and dynamic artistic innovation. The 55th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show witnessed a distinguished presence by the Italian pavilion that unveiled rare collections of handcrafted diamond and jewellery pieces. The pavilion featured around 50 brands, a 15 percent growth over the previous edition, making Italy the largest international participant in the show. Designed by some of Italy's most celebrated designers, the collections were custom-designed and produced exclusively for the exhibition, with each piece offered in highly limited editions, typically no more than two per design, drawing wide attention from global luxury jewellery connoisseurs. Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, stated that the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show has successfully reinforced its status as a leading global platform bringing together top designers and renowned international brands under one roof. This was evident in the record participation of over 500 exhibitors and 1,800 designers from around the world, along with more than 87,000 visitors. He noted that this exceptional turnout reflects growing confidence in the exhibition and its vital role in supporting and advancing the gold and jewellery sector. He affirmed Expo Sharjah's commitment to further enhancing the exhibition, expanding collaboration with partners, and driving innovation in an industry that undergoes significant transformation and offers substantial global opportunities This edition of the exhibition featured outstanding participation from 20 young Emirati female designers, who presented their latest innovative collections of gold and diamond jewellery with a global flair. Their unique designs drew inspiration from the local environment and cultural heritage, incorporating traditional crafts such as Al-Talli into contemporary creations. Among the standout pieces were 'Zayed's Lantern,' the 'Palm Necklace,' the 'Well' design, and the 'Emirati Dama'a,' along with a variety of finely crafted jewellery pieces made with gemstones, natural pearls, and gold, all showcasing exceptional skill and artistry. The exhibition is set to announce today, Monday, the winners of prestigious prizes allocated for its visitors, including a Tesla Model 3 and luxury gold and diamond sets. The 55th edition presented rare and exclusive collections of high-end jewellery, exceptional diamonds, and premium timepieces, all offered at competitive prices and with special discounts. It also recorded robust sales, reflecting strong consumer demand and the exhibition's continued role as a key marketplace for luxury gold and jewellery acquisitions.
