Expo Centre Sharjah and World Trade Centre (WTC) Kentucky have held high-level discussions aimed at deepening strategic cooperation, exchanging expertise in exhibition and event management, and promoting international trade and investment between the UAE and the United States.
Unlocking Opportunities for Sharjah:
During the meeting at Expo Centre Sharjah, Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah and member of the World Trade Centers Association (WTCA) Conferences and Exhibitions Advisory Council, emphasized the Centre’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with world trade centres globally. He highlighted the importance of experience-sharing, sustainable exhibition practices, and innovation in enhancing service quality and positioning Sharjah as a premier global destination for exhibitions and conferences.
“Strategic partnerships are crucial for driving growth in the exhibition sector and establishing Sharjah as a global hub for business events,” Al Midfa noted.
Sharing Expertise in Exhibitions and Business Events:
The meeting brought together Saif Mohammed Al Midfa and Omar Ayyash, President and CEO of WTC Kentucky and Member of the WTCA North America Regional Advisory Council. Both leaders explored opportunities for:
- Knowledge exchange in international event management
- Cross-border collaboration to boost trade and investment
- Business tourism development
- Exhibitor participation in bilateral trade shows
Al Midfa stressed that Expo Centre Sharjah’s expertise in hosting international exhibitions and its leadership within the WTCA network present a strong foundation for impactful collaboration with key markets such as the U.S.
Way up for Middle East Markets:
Omar Ayyash expressed enthusiasm for future cooperation and praised Expo Centre Sharjah for its successful track record in hosting major international events.
“Expo Sharjah sets a benchmark in global event management. This collaboration opens doors for Kentucky-based companies to access new markets in the UAE and the wider Middle East, providing a strategic gateway for regional expansion,” said Ayyash.
Both parties acknowledged the WTCA network’s pivotal role in empowering businesses by facilitating global trade, supporting SME participation in international exhibitions, and advancing sectors such as technology and artificial intelligence.
Future Roadmap and Continued Engagement:
The discussions also covered current trends and challenges in the global exhibitions industry, including the growing demand for digitally integrated events, sustainable exhibition models, and AI-driven business matchmaking.
Both sides agreed to:
- Enhance bilateral communication
- Launch joint initiatives to benefit businesses in both Sharjah and Kentucky
- Leverage the WTCA network to promote international trade and innovation
This partnership aligns with the broader vision to strengthen the role of world trade centres as platforms for global business growth, knowledge exchange, and investment facilitation.