Second edition reinforces QES as a growing industry platform as final-day sessions examine talent, future business models, resilience and the forces shaping the next five years
Doha, Qatar – September 6th, 2026: The second edition of Qatar Event Show 2026 (QES 2026) has successfully concluded at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), following three days of dialogue, knowledge exchange and collaboration focused on the future of the events, exhibitions and conferences industry.
Supported by Qatar Calendar, the event brought together industry leaders, experts, companies and organisations from Qatar, the region and international markets, and provided a dedicated platform for meaningful dialogue, business development and the exchange of insights on the opportunities and evolving priorities shaping the sector.
The three-day event brought together senior industry leaders, international associations, event organisers, venue operators, agencies, suppliers, technology providers and decision-makers, creating a dynamic platform for business engagement, knowledge exchange and collaboration across the wider events ecosystem.
Organised by Mangusteen, the second edition of Qatar Event Show 2026 reflected the continued expansion of the event in both scale and industry reach, bringing together 50 exhibitors and attracting 5,730 visitors over three days. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the 2026 show recorded approximately 100% growth across its exhibition space and conference program, further strengthening its position as a platform for industry engagement, knowledge exchange and business development.
The strong turnout also reflected the increasing momentum of Qatar’s events industry, with overall attendance rising by 48% compared with the previous edition and the number of international visitors increasing by a remarkable 170%. These year-on-year gains highlight the sector’s expanding reach and growing international profile, while demonstrating the increasing interest and participation in Qatar’s evolving events landscape.
The event also featured an extensive knowledge program comprising more than 30 keynote addresses, panel discussions and workshops, with 42 speakers sharing their expertise and perspectives on the key issues, opportunities and developments shaping the future of the events, exhibitions and conferences industry. The program provided a valuable forum for dialogue and knowledge exchange, further supporting collaboration across the wide industry ecosystem.
Malik Shishtawi, Chief Executive Officer of Mangusteen, said: “The success and growth of the second edition of Qatar Event Show reflect the continued development of the events industry in Qatar and the region, while reinforcing the importance of a dedicated annual platform that brings together knowledge, business and innovation. The discussions and connections made over the past three days have also highlighted the value of collaboration between local, regional and international expertise in building a more integrated and sustainable industry ecosystem.”
He added: “The growth achieved this year provides a strong foundation for the continued development of QES as an annual industry meeting point, addressing the opportunities and priorities that will shape the sector’s future while connecting Qatar with regional and international markets and expertise.”
The 2026 edition also marked the launch of the inaugural QES Awards, Qatar’s first dedicated awards program celebrating excellence across the events industry. Held on the evening of the second day of the show, the awards recognised outstanding achievement, innovation and leadership, with 28 participants submitting more than 100 entries across the program and 21 winners honoured for their contributions to the continued advancement of the sector.
Across its three days, Qatar Event Show 2026 delivered a diverse program exploring the key forces shaping the future of the events industry, from technology, artificial intelligence and sustainability to creative design, talent development and evolving business models. Alongside its knowledge program, the exhibition provided a professional platform for companies to showcase their latest solutions and services, while creating valuable opportunities for engagement, collaboration and new commercial partnerships
As Qatar continues to expand its position as a leading destination for events, exhibitions, conferences, sporting competitions and cultural and entertainment program, Qatar Event Show will continue to bring together the people, expertise and ideas driving the sector forward
Building on the success of its second edition, Qatar Event Show looks ahead to welcoming the industry once again in 2027, inviting exhibitors, industry professionals, decision-makers and innovators to be part of the next chapter of this growing platform.