Doha: The second edition of Qatar Event Show 2026 (QES 2026) has concluded at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) following three days of discussions, knowledge exchange, networking and business engagement focused on the future of the events, exhibitions and conferences industry.
Supported by Qatar Calendar and organised by Mangusteen, the three-day event brought together industry leaders, event organisers, venue operators, agencies, suppliers, technology providers, international associations and decision-makers from Qatar, the region and international markets.
The 2026 edition recorded significant growth compared with its inaugural edition, featuring 50 exhibitors and attracting 5,730 visitors throughout the three-day programme. According to the event organisers, exhibition space and the conference programme grew by approximately 100%, while overall attendance increased by 48% and international visitor numbers rose by 170% compared with the previous edition.
Key Highlights
The event strengthened opportunities for networking, collaboration and business development across the events ecosystem.
- 5,730 visitors attended the three-day event.
- 50 exhibitors participated in the 2026 edition.
- 42 industry speakers contributed to the knowledge programme.
- 30+ keynotes, panels and workshops addressed major industry topics.
- Overall attendance increased by 48% compared with the previous edition.
- International visitor numbers increased by 170% year-on-year.
- Exhibition space and the conference programme grew by approximately 100%.
- The inaugural QES Awards recognised 21 winners from more than 100 entries.
- Key topics included AI, technology, sustainability, creative design, talent development and future business models.
Knowledge Program Examines the Future of Events
A major component of Qatar Event Show 2026 was its industry-focused knowledge programme, which featured more than 30 keynote addresses, panel discussions and workshops involving 42 speakers.
Sessions explored some of the key developments affecting the events industry, including technology, artificial intelligence, sustainability, creative design, talent development, resilience and evolving business models. The programme provided opportunities for professionals to exchange perspectives and examine the changing requirements of the events, exhibitions and conferences sector.
The exhibition floor complemented the conference programme by providing companies with an opportunity to present their products, services and solutions while engaging with potential clients, partners and other industry stakeholders.
QES Awards Make Their Debut
The 2026 edition also introduced the inaugural QES Awards, described by the organisers as Qatar’s first dedicated awards programme celebrating excellence across the events industry.
The awards received more than 100 entries from 28 participants, with 21 winners recognised for achievements across the programme. The ceremony took place on the second evening of the show and recognised contributions related to achievement, innovation and leadership within the sector.
Building Connections Across the Events Ecosystem
Beyond the exhibition and conference sessions, Qatar Event Show provided a platform for business networking and collaboration across the wider events ecosystem.
The participation of event organisers, venues, agencies, suppliers, technology companies and other industry stakeholders reflected the interconnected nature of Qatar’s events sector. The event also created opportunities for local, regional and international professionals to exchange expertise and explore potential commercial partnerships.
Mangusteen CEO Malik Shishtawi said the growth of the second edition reflected the continued development of the events industry in Qatar and the region. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between local, regional and international expertise in developing a more integrated and sustainable industry ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
The conclusion of Qatar Event Show 2026 comes as Qatar continues to develop its position as a destination for exhibitions, conferences, sporting competitions, cultural programmes and entertainment events.
With its second edition showing growth in participation, exhibition space and international engagement, Qatar Event Show is set to continue as an annual meeting point for professionals and businesses working across the events industry. Organisers have announced that the show will return in 2027, continuing its focus on connecting industry professionals, decision-makers, innovators and businesses.
